Parenting Disputes
Following separation, parenting disputes can occur because parents are sometimes unable to reach agreement about parenting issues. This can include where the children will live or the time that the children will spend with a parent.
Parents may be able to reach agreement at Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) and we can refer you to FDR practitioners in your local area. We can also assist you to negotiate agreement about parenting arrangements. If a party issues Court proceedings seeking parenting orders, the Family Law Act provides that a Court must regard the best interests of a child as the paramount consideration when making a parenting order.
When determining a child’s best interests, the Court must primarily consider the benefit to the child of having a meaningful relationship with both of the child’s parents, and the need to protect the child from physical or psychological harm from being subjected to or exposed to abuse, neglect or family violence. The Court must also take into account a number of other considerations to the extent that they are relevant.
At Farrell Family Lawyers we can provide you with practical advice about arrangements for your children and advocate for you in court if necessary. Please contact us if you would like to speak to one of our specialist family lawyers.