When you separate, you and your former partner need to make important decisions about the future care of your children as well as how to divide your property, money and belongings. Working through these issues is often difficult and emotionally challenging. Separation can be a particularly stressful time for your children, and that is why it is important for parents to work collectively to prioritise their children’s needs and interests.
We can provide information on how best to navigate this difficult time. Our involvement will depend on where you are in the process and how well you are able to communicate with your former partner. Sometimes you may come to us for help because you are simply unable to communicate at all with the other party. At other times, you may just want us to document the agreement that has been reached between you.
If you have reached an agreement regarding proposed care arrangements, we can assist by:
- Documenting the agreement by way of a parenting plan or add Orders by Consent.
- Providing advice on the agreement you have reached including advice on matters you may not have considered.
- Providing advice generally on your rights and how the Family Law Act approaches such matter.
If care arrangements have not been agreed upon, we can assist by:
- Advising you about your rights and the approach to such matters under the Family Law Act
- Advising you about the rights of your children and of the other party
- Negotiating acceptable arrangements with the other party or their representative.
- Attending a conference or mediation with you to attempt to resolve matters
- Documenting the agreement once reached by way of a parenting plan or Orders by Consent for filing in the Court
.
If no resolution can be achieved, we can assist you by:
- Advising you about the steps available to you to move the matter forward and the likely costs
- Attending family dispute resolution with you as required.
- If need be, issuing Court proceedings and providing all necessary advice in relation to costs, prospects and the process.
Read more Parenting disputes and agreements
Read More Child Custody
Read more Child Protection
Read More Child Support
Read More Adoption
Read more Grandparent’s Rights