POSITION STATEMENT
[Your Name] v [Other Party's Name]
Case Number: [Insert Case Number]
Hearing Date: [Insert Date]
Hearing Type: [e.g., FHDRA / DRA / Final Hearing]

Prepared by: [Your Full Name]
Date: [Today's Date]

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 I am [Your Name], the [Applicant/Respondent] in these proceedings. I am the [mother/father] of [Child's Name], born [Date of Birth], aged [Age].

1.2 I make this position statement in advance of the [hearing type] listed for [date].

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2. BACKGROUND

2.1 [Brief factual history — 3-5 sentences. Focus on facts relevant to the children's welfare. Avoid emotional language.]

2.2 [The parties separated on [date]. Since separation, the arrangements for [Child's Name] have been as follows: [describe current arrangements].]

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3. CURRENT POSITION

3.1 [Describe the current situation regarding the child. What is working? What is not working? What has changed since the last hearing?]

3.2 [Any relevant developments since the last hearing or since the application was filed.]

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4. ORDERS SOUGHT

4.1 I respectfully ask the court to make the following orders:

(a) [Specific order 1 — be precise about dates, times, handover arrangements]
(b) [Specific order 2]
(c) [Any other orders sought]

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5. THE WELFARE CHECKLIST (s.1(3) Children Act 1989)

5.1 The ascertainable wishes and feelings of [Child's Name]:
[Describe the child's wishes, taking into account their age and understanding.]

5.2 [Child's Name]'s physical, emotional, and educational needs:
[Describe the child's needs and how your proposals meet them.]

5.3 The likely effect of any change in circumstances:
[Explain why your proposed arrangements minimise disruption to the child.]

5.4 Age, sex, background, and relevant characteristics:
[Any relevant characteristics of the child that the court should consider.]

5.5 Any harm suffered or at risk of suffering:
[Address any safeguarding concerns honestly and factually.]

5.6 Capability of parents to meet the child's needs:
[Explain your capability and, if relevant, any concerns about the other parent's capability.]

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6. CONCLUSION

6.1 I respectfully submit that the orders sought above are in [Child's Name]'s best interests and I ask the court to make them.

Signed: ___________________________
Name: [Your Full Name]
Date: [Today's Date]

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NOTES FOR USE:
- Keep your position statement to 2-4 pages (A4, 12pt font)
- File with the court at least 3 working days before the hearing
- Serve a copy on the other party at the same time
- Address the judge as "Your Honour" (Circuit Judge) or "Sir/Madam" (District Judge)
- For more help, visit: https://courtcraftadvocatesco.uk

Template provided by CourtCraft Advocate — Free Family Court Resources
This template is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.