It is typically an extremely emotional time as both parties are required to compromise the time and living arrangements that they have previously enjoyed with their children.
It is important to stay focused on your children at this time and to make decisions based on their best interests.
Negotiated arrangements are often preferable as families are able to take ownership of them and tailor them to suit their personal needs. We can assist you in negotiating parenting arrangements that have the appropriate amount of flexibility or rigidity to suit your family’s circumstances.
Sometimes it is not possible to negotiate arrangements about living and parenting arrangements and it is necessary, instead, to seek the assistance of the Court. The Court must always make orders that are in the best interests of the child and will consider the following factors:
- The safety of the child;
- The child’s views;
- The developmental, psychological, emotional and cultural needs of the child;
- The capacity of each person who is responsible for the child to provide for the child’s developmental, psychological, emotional and cultural needs;
- The benefit to the child of having a relationship with parents, and other people who are significant to them (e.g. grandparents and siblings); and
- Anything else that is relevant to the particular circumstances of the child.
We will help you seek to negotiate parenting arrangements that suit your family. If negotiation is not possible we will advocate for you and guide you through the Court process. You will come through this process knowing that you have been properly advised and supported.
Our clients are confident in the knowledge that they are in a safe set of hands.
or get in touch for a
FREE initial consultation.