The government’s green paper on families and relationships states that although the majority of separating parents make private arrangements for contact with their children, between five and 10 per cent seek help through the courts.
While mediation services are available, the government said this must be flagged up to all families and it should be made clear these services are not just available to couples who want to reconcile.
Justice Secretary Jack Straw said: "We know that for many families the current family justice system is proving far too complicated, and its adversarial nature can lead to bitter, lengthy court hearings, prolonging what is already a stressful and emotionally draining experience.
"While the vast majority of separating parents settle their disputes privately, for those who do need access to the system we need to find a better, fairer way to forge lasting agreements for the care of children."
He said the review would centre on helping parents maintain a working relationship following a separation and seek to avoid the confrontational nature of the private law system.
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