Parental child abduction arises when one parent takes their child abroad without the consent of the other parent or takes their child abroad for a short time with consent but then retains the child abroad without consent. Many countries have signed up to the Hague Convention in which countries co-operate for the speedy return of abducted children. The parent whose child has been abducted to this country is entitled to free legal representation for proceedings designed to secure the child’s return. Often courts act very fast with substantial powers to locate an abducted child and secure the child’s return.