Locating a Child’s Whereabouts

Welcome to our blog, “Locating a Child’s Whereabouts,” a vital resource for families navigating the complex and often distressing situation of parental abduction. Whether you are dealing with a custody dispute, a violation of a court order or an unexpected disappearance, our blog provides critical guidance, support and information to help you take the necessary steps to locate and reunite with your child.

Application for an Order

In trying to locate your child, you will need to make an Application for an Order for Disclosure of a Child’s Whereabouts under the Family Act. This is to try to resolve cases where one parent has taken a child and not informed the other parent of their location.

You can apply to a court to reveal the current whereabouts of your child if that information has been withheld from you.

What happens under an order for disclosure of a child’s whereabouts?

Under an order for disclosure of a child’s whereabouts, the court will act on your behalf to track the named person(s) who may have knowledge of your child’s location. Named individuals may include applications to HMRC and the Department of Work and pensions; incoming and outgoing telephone records; and information relating to their travel and movements.

Named individuals are legally required to respond to the court’s requests for information.

The court will use this gathered information to make a decision on your unique case. They may or may not decide to disclose the location of a child. This decision is based on several factors, including:

1. The wishes and feelings of the child;
2. The child’s emotional, physical, and educational needs;
3. Whether the child has suffered any kind of abuse or neglect, or is in danger of doing so;
4. The ability of the child’s parents or guardians to meet the child’s needs;
5. The effects on the child of any changes in circumstances as a result of theorder;
6. What changes the court has the power to make.

How can Taylor Bracewell’s family law team assist you?

Our family law team are experts when it comes to dealing with court orders and breaches of them. They will guide you through the process and be with you every step of the way. Call our Doncaster team on 01302 341414 or our Sheffield team on 0114 272 1884. Alternatively, you can fill out our online enquiry form.