Children Act 1989: Primary legislation that defines parental responsibility, establishes the welfare principle (child's best interests are paramount), sets out court orders relating to children, and outlines residency and contact arrangements
Family Law Act 1996: Framework legislation for family proceedings, addressing domestic violence provisions and dealing with occupation rights
Children and Families Act 2014: Updates child arrangement orders, emphasizes parental involvement, and introduces mediation requirements
Human Rights Act 1998: Incorporates European Convention rights including Article 8 (right to respect for private and family life) and Article 6 (right to a fair trial)
Child Support Act 1991: Legislation governing financial arrangements and maintenance for children
Matrimonial Causes Act 1973: Relevant when custody agreement is part of divorce proceedings
Family Procedure Rules 2010: Sets out procedural requirements and court protocols for family proceedings
Practice Directions: Specific court guidance and protocols on custody matters and family proceedings
Brussels II bis Regulation: Pre-Brexit regulation governing cross-border family matters in the EU
1996 Hague Convention: International treaty governing cross-border child protection measures and custody issues
