Parenting Matters
Overview
Perhaps the most important thing to finalise after a marriage or de facto relationship ends are the arrangements for the ongoing parenting of the child or children of the relationship.
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Much like property settlements, parenting matters can be finalised by reaching an agreement with your spouse or by asking a court to decide the matter.
All parenting disputes fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, regardless of the status the parent's relationship. The Court's focus is to make an arrangement which is in the best interests of the children involved.
In this regard, the current default position of the Court is that children should spend time with both of their parents and have a meaningful relationship with both parents. However, the Court takes into account a number of factors which may make it depart from this position.
Our Aims and Philosophy
We feel it is important not to think of parenting matters in terms of winning and losing; our object is to devise an arrangement which will best benefit the children's welfare and development.
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We are committed to pursuing outcomes which are both fair and geared towards minimising the level of conflict between the parents.
Our experience and expertise with parenting matters allows us to deal with your situation, regardless of the circumstances.
Key Points Regarding Parenting Agreements
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Despite your separation, as parents you share common goals for your children
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Most children want to be friends with both parents but this proves difficult when the parents are not able to be friendly or cordial with each other
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Children need to feel that their parents approve of their time with each other
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Conflict between parents causes significant damage to a child's welfare
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Some degree of flexibility and understanding is necessary for an arrangement to function effectively
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Consistency in arrangements is beneficial to children
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Children have the right to be treated as human beings and to freely express love for their parents without feeling the need to stifle that love because of fear of disapproval
Parenting Services
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Negotiating an agreed parenting arrangement and applying for Consent Orders from the Federal Circuit and Family Court​ of Australia
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Preparing a parenting plan
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Assisting clients to resolve their matter through the use of Collaborative Law
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Organising for you and your spouse to engage in mediation with an accredited dispute resolution practitioner with the view to reaching an agreed outcome​
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Applying on your behalf to the Federal Circuit and Family Court​ of Australia for Interim and Final Orders
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Drafting the necessary evidence to support your application
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Having your matter litigated before the Federal Circuit and Family Court​ of Australia
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Engaging the necessary experts as required by the circumstances or the Court