International Parental Child Abduction - Frequently Asked Questions
What is international parental child abduction?
The removal or retention of a child across an international border by one parent, which is either in contravention of a court order or is without the consent of the other parent (or person who has parental rights).
Is it a criminal offence for one parent to abduct a child?
In most circumstances, yes. You should contact your local Police Station.
My child has been taken abroad. Is there anything I can do?
In most circumstances – yes. If the country to which your child has been taken is a member of one of the international child abduction conventions, there will be immediate steps you can take. Contact a solicitor and contact reunite.
How can I prevent my child from being abducted?
There are steps you can take. For example, you can obtain a court order, prevent a passport being issued and, in urgent situations, request an All Ports Warning. Contact the reunite advice line and contact a solicitor.
I have brought my children to this country and I am now being accused of child abduction. Can you help?
reunite provides neutral advice and information to all persons involved in child abduction matters. A person facing child abduction allegations requires specialist and urgent assistance and reunite will ensure that this is given.
My children were abducted many years ago and I need someone to talk to. Can you help?
reunite will always speak to any person involved in child abduction and will offer all the support and assistance it can.
