Family law question

[wineandsunshine]

Hi, posting on behalf of a friend for advice.

Partnership has split (one DD approx 1.5years old). previous backstory is that mum has a previous ten year eating disorder. Resulting in a hospital in-patient stay this year and now at home with community care.

Dad had support whilst partner was in hospital but has previously used alcohol and narcotics recreationally (not whilst in care of child). This has all been reported to social services and they are in contact to support both of the adults.

The split will result in a new home for mum soon but dad has ongoing concerns about her eating. No formal arrangements have been put in place re care or overnight stays as yet.

Is it worth getting legal advice re custody arrangements and concerns (mainly from dad’s perspective)?

It's pretty much always a good idea to take advice, it's very rarely a bad thing to understand the legalities and options. Overall I would say it's generally much preferable to agree the arrangements for the child's residence and care informally and amicably and not enter into a formal legal process unless you have absolutely no other option, a protracted legal battle is not in anyone's interest, least of all the child. So as long as the dad is clear that the purpose of taking the advice is to understand how best to go about promoting the child's best interests and co-parent effectively, and doesn't go about shouting (figuratively or literally) about how he's going to get a solicitor to make sure he gets his rights or anything like that I would say it's a sensible step.