Looks very likely my wife and I will be formally separating

Hello
Thank you for your response.
You already hold parental responsibility for your daughter by virtue of being married to her mother when your daughter was born.
Arrangements for children are dealt with separately from divorce proceedings.
It is the courts view that children have a right to have a good relationship with both of their parents - unless there are child protection concerns.
It is encouraged that parents set their feelings aside about each other and try to amicably agree the time that their children spend with their parents. There is no reason why a shared care agreement could not be possible if this is possible to facilitate and meets your daughters needs. If matters can be agreed then there is no need for a court order.
If, however, the time that your daughter spends with both of you cannot be agreed then you should consider referring the matter to mediation. Mediation will try and help you agree a schedule in respect of when your daughter will spend time with both of you. Children really do benefit from having a schedule and knowing when they will next spend time with the other parent.
If matters cant be agreed at mediation then an application could be made to court for a child arrangement order. Court Form is C100. Court fee is £215. Send to local family court. The court will then make the decision for you based on your daughters welfare.
An application cannot be made to court until mediation has been attempted.
In respect of your teenage step sons - the court will give high regard to their wishes and feelings in whether or not they want to spend time with you.
Please do not hesitate to ask if I can clarify anything for you.
Kind Regards
Caroline
Please kindly remember to rate positively. We receive no credit for our work unless positive feedback is received.