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My ex has abducted our children

If your ex is named as the person that your child lives with under a child arrangements order, then they may take your children on holiday abroad for up to 28 days without requiring your permission. If this is not the case, then they will require permission from you or from the court. If your ex takes any of your children under the age of 16 out of this jurisdiction without permission, they will be committing a criminal offence under the Child Abduction Act 1985.

Child abduction is a serious criminal offence that can have serious legal repercussions. Whilst child abduction is a criminal offence in England, it is not a criminal offence in all countries.

If you suspect that your child has or is going to be abducted, it is natural to panic. However, the faster you act the more likely you are to achieve the swift return of your children, or prevent the child leaving this jurisdiction in the first place. As an international family law firm, we are used to dealing with people who are under a great deal of emotional stress, as well as time pressure. Our lawyers will be able to advise you on the quickest, calmest, and most effective way to reunite you with your children. If your ex has abducted your child to a country that is a signatory to the Hague Convention 1980 on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, you will be able to make an urgent application in that country for them to be returned to England immediately. You can also apply to the English High Court for an order that your child is made a Ward of the Court, and through that, for orders that your child is returned to England and Wales.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whilst there are perfectly innocent reasons why your ex might not yet have returned with your children from Britain, it could also be a real cause for concern. In the first instance, it will be necessary to contact your ex, the hotel or the last place they were known to be and any family or friends who might know of their whereabouts.

OUR Children & Family TEAM

Caroline Korah

Partner - Head of Children Caroline Korah Vardags Partner Head of Children
“Caroline Korah is a highly dedicated lawyer who fearlessly represents her clients’ interest” 
Legal 500

Lucy Bolton

Partner - Divorce & Family Lucy Williams Vardags Partner Divorce & Family
“Lucy Williams is loved by clients and counsel” 
Legal 500

Jemima Kearney

Assistant Solicitor Jemima Kearney Graduate Trainee Solicitor
““I WOULD 100% RECOMMEND VARDAGS TO A FRIEND OR COLLEAGUE.”” 
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Is Vardags Right For You?

We offer a free consultation to qualifying individuals. Please call our confidential enquiry line on 020 7404 9390. Lines are staffed 24 hours.

When you contact us a member of our client relations team will take the full details of your situation, assess whether we can assist you, and if so, determine the best team for your case.