When Summer Disagreements Spill into September: How MSB Solicitors Can Support Separated Parents at Back-to-School Time

For many families, the return to school in September brings structure, routine, and a sense of normality after the long summer holidays. But for separated parents, the summer can be a flashpoint—heightening tensions, disrupting communication, and bringing unresolved issues to the surface.

At MSB Solicitors, our Family Law team sees a clear pattern every year: September often marks not just the start of a new school term, but a spike in disputes over schooling, routines, and contact arrangements. These issues, if left unresolved, can have a real impact—not only on parents but, most importantly, on children.

The Summer Strain on Co-Parenting

Summer should be a time for fun and flexibility. But for separated parents, it often comes with logistical challenges: Who takes the children on holiday? What happens if one parent wants to take them abroad? How do you split six weeks of childcare? These disputes may seem short-term, but their consequences often spill into the new school year.

By September, problems like:

• Missed communication about term-time contact schedules
• Disagreements over school uniform or equipment costs
• Disputes about which school the child should attend
• Uncertainty over pick-up/drop-off arrangements

…can escalate quickly, especially if tensions are already running high after a difficult summer.

When Children Are Caught in the Middle

We know that conflict between parents—especially around the return to school—can place children under enormous pressure. When a child is unsure who is taking them to school, whether their uniform will be ready, or even which school they’re attending, it affects their emotional wellbeing and academic readiness.

How MSB Solicitors Can Help

At MSB, our Family Law team is here to help families regain clarity, stability, and focus—putting the child’s best interests first.

1. Clarifying Arrangements

We can help you review or formalise contact arrangements to avoid last-minute confusion. If needed, we can assist in applying for or varying Child Arrangement Orders to reflect new term-time routines.

2. Resolving School Disputes

Whether it’s about which school your child should attend, or whether a parent has made a decision without your input, we can guide you through the process—whether that means negotiating an agreement or applying for a Specific Issue or Prohibited Steps Order.

3. Supporting Non-Court Resolution

Our team is highly skilled in non-court options like mediation and collaborative law. If you and our ex-partner are willing, we can help you reach practical, child-focused solutions without stepping into a courtroom.

4. Acting When Urgency Strikes

In situations where a child has been taken abroad without consent, or is being kept from school, we can take swift legal action. Our team is experienced in urgent applications and emergency injunctions when necessary.

Why MSB?

Our Family Department is recognised nationally and locally for excellence in children law. With leading solicitors like Dr Emma Palmer and our wider team of specialists, we bring expertise, empathy, and clear legal strategy to even the most emotionally charged situations.

We understand how difficult co-parenting can be—especially after a tough summer. But we also know that with the right support, it’s possible to get things back on track in time for a smooth and stable school year.