The New Way in Family Law: Understanding the Pathfinder Pilot Scheme

For many families, going through the Courts for child arrangements after separation or divorce can be one of the most stressful and emotionally challenging experiences. The traditional Family Court process is often seen as slow, costly and combative.

To try and address these concerns, the family justice system is rolling out a new way of working known as the Pathfinder Pilot.  This has now been operating in much of South East Wales since April 2024. The pilot programme changes how private law cases on child arrangement matters are handled by the Courts. It aims to put the children’s needs firmly at the centre, reduce conflict between parents and resolve matters quickly and holistically.

At JNP Legal we believe that clients should know the options available to them when navigating family breakdowns. Here, we explain what the Pathfinder Pilot is and how it works, and importantly why it may represent a better way forward.

What is the Pathfinder Pilot?

The Pathfinder Pilot is a new way of handling private law cases about children in the Family Courts. It is now widespread across South Wales and aims to take a collaborative and investigative approach to resolving disputes.

Under the old system when parents disagreed about the arrangements for their children they would end up in Court with minimal initial investigation into the background of the case. This could result in a long and drawn-out process, involving multiple hearings and reports, causing stress for all involved and significant cost.

The Pathfinder approach brings in much more detailed information from the outset. Agencies such as CAFCASS Cymru (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Services), or the Local Authority, assess cases early and provide the Court with a report through the Child Impact Assessment. This allows the Court to understand the family’s circumstances in greater depth, identify risk and concerns and begin shaping a plan that meets the needs of the children involved from the outset.

Key features of the Pathfinder Pilot

1. Early information gathering

One key strength of the Pathfinder approach is the emphasis on gathering comprehensive information before the first Court hearing. CAFCASS officers carry out more in-depth interviews with both parents, often speaking with children directly where appropriate. This provides the Court a better sense of the actual situation.

2. Joined up working

Rather than dealing with issues in isolation, the Pathfinder approach encourages close co-operation between professionals from different sectors. Judges, CAFCASS officers and social workers operate collaboratively to create a joined-up view of what support or intervention may be required.

 3. Focus on non-adversarial solutions

Parents are often guided toward mediation or parenting programmes instead of going to Court, when safe and appropriate. The aim is to help families find long-term, workable solutions without the need for lengthy and costly legal battles.

 4. Engaging with children

One of the central features of the Pathfinder approach is obtaining from children their views in an age-appropriate way, either through direct or indirect engagement.  Children may speak with trained professionals who also explain outcomes to them in an age-appropriate way.

Why is this better for families?

Pathfinder recognises that disputes around children are rarely just legal problems, they are emotional, practical and deeply personal. By taking a more holistic approach, Pathfinder is already showing promise in reducing delays, lowering conflict and achieving better and more longer lasting outcomes for children.

Clients often feel overwhelmed, confused and frustrated by delays, many hearings and the rising costs of the old process. Pathfinder focuses early on key issues, aiming to resolve matters faster through timely intervention.

Where is it being used?

The Pathfinder Pilot was originally launched in North Wales and Dorset.  In April 2024, it expanded across much of South East Wales and by March 2025, it had also reached South West Wales.  This wider rollout follows positive feedback from both professionals and families involved in the process.

What does this mean for you?

If you are separating, your case may follow the Pathfinder model for handling child arrangements. At JNP Legal, we believe it’s important that, from the outset of any dispute, you have the information you need to understand how your matter will be handled and what to expect from the process.

Lee Davies, Head of the Family and Divorce Department at JNP Legal shared his thoughts on the Pathfinder Pilot: -

“The Pathfinder process has significantly streamlined court applications in Children Act cases by gathering key information at the very start.  It is therefore more important than ever for clients to seek early legal advice to ensure their position is presented to the Court and their voice is heard.”

How we can help

If you are involved in a dispute over child arrangements or unsure how a new model like Pathfinder will affect your case, we’re here to guide you. Our experienced family law team is on hand to provide clear and compassionate tailored advice to your situation.

Contact us today for an initial consultation or to speak to one of our family law specialists.