Specialist Child Abduction Solicitors

What to do in the case of an actual or potential child abduction

Child abduction is a deeply sensitive and complex area of Family Law. If you’re facing this challenging situation, it’s vital you seek urgent advice from a specialist child abduction lawyer who understands the nuances of this fast-evolving and niche area of law as soon as possible. Time is usually of the essence in such matters and the timing of any action that needs to be taken is crucial to matters such as establishing the jurisdiction and/or habitual residence of a child.

We can assist with:

• Applying for a court order to prevent a child from being taken abroad

• Applying to the court to locate a child if you do not know where they have been taken to

• Applying to the court to seek the return of a child who has been illegally removed from England and Wales

• Applying to the court if you have brought your child to England and Wales from a different country and you want to remain here

• Applying for a court order to stop a passport from being issued

• Alerting the authorities in the UK and abroad

• Working with foreign law enforcement bodies to resolve the matter

Your child’s safety is our priority, and we’re committed to providing expert guidance and unwavering support throughout this difficult situation.

What does the law say about child abduction?

When a child has been abducted, there are several ways the law can ensure they’re returned. This is dependent on the case and the country to which the child has been taken.

• Within England & Wales: The English courts can be asked to help trace and/or recover them.

• Countries under the Hague Convention: If a child is taken to or kept in a country that has signed up to The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction 1980 (known as the “Hague Convention”), the legal process can be more complex. The Hague Convention deals with children who are wrongfully removed from one jurisdiction to another or who are retained outside the country of their habitual residence (where they usually live). It provides a clear legal framework to secure the immediate return of a child to the jurisdiction of their habitual residence.

• Non-Hague Convention countries: In some instances, there may be an agreement with the other country about returning the child. Our specialist child abduction solicitors can assist in wardship proceedings, which means the court will assume parental authority for the child. This can help persuade the local authorities or courts to return the child to the UK.

Our expertise ensures that no matter where your child has been taken, you’ll receive the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.

Why choose Hodge Jones & Allen’s child abduction solicitors?

Leaders in the field

We’re proud to be independently recognised as specialists in Family Law by both the Legal 500 and Chambers UK. Our team is celebrated for delivering exceptional client care and setting the standard for excellence in the field.

Award-winning firm

Through nearly five decades of excellence, our work has earned recognition and numerous accolades, including a place in The Times’ Best Law Firms 2025.

Industry-regulated

Our child abduction lawyers uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics. Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and accredited in Family Law and Children Law by The Law Society and Resolution, we provide expert guidance and dedicated support tailored to your needs.

Trusted by clients

Clients across the country value our steadfast support, as shown by our ‘Excellent’ rating on Trustpilot.