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Children are our future. Nurturing and supporting them is the job of every adult with a responsibility to them, but occasionally particularly sensitive issues arise involving young people.

Whether the issue stems from a dispute within the family over how a child will be raised, their living and financial arrangements or from an external intervention such as from a local authority, our specialist team has significant expertise in dealing with complex, issues involving children. Our focus is always on the child’s welfare, and we place this at the centre of our work.

We act for parents, foster carers and special guardians but also for young people through their Cafcass guardians and directly for children who are old enough. We act in a range of situations, including care proceedings, adoption proceedings, access arrangements, child support and maintenance, family disputes and domestic and international relocation issues.

Wherever possible, our experienced team champions new approaches to resolving issues without the need for litigation. Occasionally, in disputes where parties have been unable to reach an out-of-court resolution, we provide support throughout the process, with a close eye on our number one priority; ensuring the wellbeing and welfare of the young people involved.

So if you’re seeking an experienced team, adept at handling the most sensitive of situations with care and understanding, we’re here for you.

Our services

Living arrangements for children
  • Determining who the child lives with and who they spend time with (formerly known as custody)
  • Disputes over specific issues of a child’s upbringing such as choice of school and consent to medical treatment
  • Relocating domestically or internationally with a child
Maintenance and finance for children
  • Child maintenance
  • Other financial provision for children such as provision of accommodation and to meet other one-off costs
International children matters
  • International child relocation
  • Child abduction
  • Preventative measures to stop a child from being taken abroad
Adoption proceedings
  • Adoption
  • International adoption
  • Step parent adoption
Care and local authority proceedings
  • Care Proceedings and the involvement of Local Authorities
  • Fostering

What people say

  • I was fortunate to be represented by Maria Coster. Her calm, sensitive, friendly, pragmatic approach to my situation was reassuring and comforting. Maria ensured that I fully understood every stage of the legal process, which made me feel represented rather than railroaded. Her youthfulness is not to be underestimated. She is highly knowledgeable in all aspects of family law including divorce, children issues and financial matters resulting in her being a formidable force in the courtroom. She achieved the very best outcome for me and I cannot thank her enough.

    Legal 500, client quote
  • I found her commitment and determination quite simply exemplary and would highly recommend Maria Coster.

    Legal 500, client quote
  • • Maria assisted me through a pretty messy divorce. I had fantastic and realistic advice the whole way through which helped me to secure an outcome that was best for me.
    Maria is very knowledgeable and professional and approaches incredibly difficult personal times with sensitivity. She helped me to understand the legal processes and outcomes which really helped me too in terms of the divorce, finances and children matters. I am really grateful for her help and very fortunate to have chosen Maria.

    Client quote
  • I have used Maria Coster over the last couple of years. I moved to Maria from another firm as I was left in the dark with things. From the first day I met Maria, we sat down and went over everything. She was extremely thorough and professional and exceeded expectations. Things were always explained clearly. My cases were always dealt with efficiently in a timely manner.

    Client quote
  • Simon Dakers is competent in tricky cases that involve complex issues.

    Legal 500 2025
  • Simon Dakers' knowledge of family law is excellent, Simon's skills in court are also excellent, his communication and mediation skills ensure good outcomes at court and I have complete trust in Simon's advice. Issues are resolved quickly and smoothly and Simon is always respectful and polite.

    Legal 500 2025
  • Louise Cannell-Mirza is an experienced, knowledgeable professional. I enjoy working alongside Louise who has the child at the heart of the work.

    Legal 500 2025
  • From the very first telephone conversation with her [Gemma Iceton] I felt that I was in safe hands, and I was right. She listened, non-judgmentally and patiently, and it was clear from the start that she understood the legal issues and the emotional impact of the matter.

    Client Quote
  • I have found Ms Iceton’s team are all very well informed of the case should Ms Iceton be unavailable, should I be in need of help or advice. The team are all very efficient, professional and give relevant advice. They all work together to collate and provide information which helps to keep costs down and are very thorough in their individual roles.

    Legal 500, client quote

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