home / what we do / children - problems with contact Children - Problems with Contact It is a very unusual parent who does not love his or her children. However, distressingly often, children are the most damaged casualties of a marriage breakdown. The stability of their lives has been shattered and they need more than ever to maintain a close and loving relationship with both parents. Sometimes parents genuinely and reasonably disagree over what is best for their children. Sadly, however, some parents - even without realising that they are doing it - use their children as weapons against the other parent. Where this happens, children already badly affected by the breakdown in their parents’ relationship are placed in an impossible position of conflict of loyalties. Relationships between the children and one or both parents can be fractured and there are no winners - only losers. We always encourage our clients to co-operate with each other in the best interests of their children and - where there is disagreement - to resolve the dispute by negotiation. If negotiation does not succeed, we recommend and facilitate mediation. However, where mediation does not work and - as a last resort - Court proceedings are necessary, we recognise that sensitivity must also be combined with firmness. Call us on 01202 292075 for a confidental chat with Eric Baehr. We hope the following Article will be of interest: -  Introduction to child custody  >> contact us >> other services