My daughter & her partner split up in December. Since then…

Hi

It is difficult to tell you what the judge's decision will be. I don't believe that a decision will be made next week, the judge will need more information both from your daughter and her ex and an independent expert - CAFCASS (children and family advice and support service)

CAFCASS can be asked to do a report and would speak with your daughter and her ex and perhaps your grandson's nursery.

What I can tell you is that a shared care of 50-50 is very rare as it is not practical for the child. A shared residence order can be made and that reflects that both parents have equal imput to the child's life.

A routine is often arranged on a case by case basis which includes a routine that will work for that family. It could be that over the month or the year care is roughly shared but splitting each week for example is very impractical.

The issue of the cruise is one that the judge will have to decide having heard evidence from both parties. I can see a lot in the information you have given that I would be able to put to the court in defense of your daughter's position:

1. It is perhaps the longest that her son has been away from her and too long for a child of his age

2. The new partner is likely to be a relative stranger to him

3. He will be away over his birthday which, most fairly, should be shared between the parents

4 A cruise is not a very child focused holiday choice.

As for the schooling, much will depend on how far apart the schools are and who will have the main responsibility for the school run.

I hope that is of assistance

Regards

Emma