The George Green Corporate team have recently acted for the Servton Group on the acquisition of...
If you live in Wolverhampton or the surrounding areas (including Telford, Walsall, and Dudley), it’s important to be aware that the court process for applying for a Child Arrangements Order is changing from October 2025.
Up until that time, applications will continue to follow the current process known as the Child Arrangements Programme (CAP). However, from October 2025 onwards, all new applications will be dealt with under a new scheme called the Pathfinder Pilot.
What is the Pathfinder Pilot?
Originally launched in Dorset and North Wales in 2022, the Pathfinder Pilot was designed to test a new way of handling private law children cases. It expanded to Birmingham in April 2024 and will now be rolled out across the Wolverhampton Court circuit, including the courts in Telford, Walsall, and Dudley, starting in October 2025.
What is Changing?
One of the most significant changes under the Pathfinder Pilot is the introduction of a Child Impact Report in every case. This report is prepared early in the proceedings and provides the court with an initial assessment of the child’s circumstances and any potential risks.
If both parents agree with the recommendations made in the Child Impact Report, the court may be able to make decisions “on paper”. This means that orders (whether final or interim) could be issued without the need for a hearing.
If an agreement isn’t reached, the court will list a “decision hearing”, during which it will usually aim to make a final order provided there are no safeguarding concerns that require further investigation.
Why Does This Matter?
The Pathfinder scheme is designed to resolve cases more quickly and in a less adversarial way, reducing the emotional and financial strain on families. The Child Impact Report is central to this process and will carry significant weight in the court’s decision-making.
However, if you disagree with the contents of the report, it’s crucial to make strong and well-argued representations to the court. Legal advice and representation may be essential in these circumstances.
How We Can Help
At George Green LLP, our experienced family law team is already supporting clients in areas where the Pathfinder scheme has been introduced. We are well-prepared to guide you through this new process when it arrives in Wolverhampton and the surrounding courts in October 2025.
This article was written by Aimee Stokes, Associate Solicitor at George Green LLP. If you would like to discuss child arrangements or court proceedings in more detail, please contact Aimee at astokes@georgegreen.co.uk or call her on 01902 328 355.