Ministers have announced they intend to re-write the law to ensure fathers get improved access to their children when a marriage breaks down.

According to the Office of National Statistics one in three children lives without their father and in the vast majority of family court decisions, children are left with their mothers.

In plans published by the Justice Secretary, Ken Clarke, children will have the legal right to have a proper relationship with both parents. Although the plans stop short of giving grandparents full legal rights it is hoped that by giving fathers improved access, it is less likely paternal grandparents will lose out.

Rachel Edwards Barrott from The National Family Law Practice in Hoylake commented, "This is a welcome change. It is evident that children develop better when they maintain a strong and healthy relationship with both parents after a divorce. And although everyone's circumstances are different it is the rights of the child that are paramount."

Rachel continued, "Grandparents play a very important role in children's lives and going forward the government will give a new direction for grandparent's access to be considered after a marriage break-down.

"Currently grandparents can make an application to the court and sometimes do. This new proposal stops short of giving grandparents full legal rights but recognises their role in bringing children up and includes it as an integral part of the discussion, not as an afterthought."

A ministerial working group has been set up comprising education ministers Tim Loughton and Sarah Teather, and the justice minister Jonathan Djanogly. They will be expected to draft proposals to reform the Children's Act 1989 within two months. Ministers have also announced a £10 million fund to encourage more parents to use mediation rather than seek more acrimonious court proceedings.

If you are concerned about the changes or need expert help in family law proceedings you can contact The National Family Law Practice on 0151 632 0330 or visit www.tnflp.com.