In child custody and parental responsibility cases we focus on the best interests of each child.

The law provides that both parents shall have equal parental responsibility for their children under the age of 18 unless there are compelling reasons why they should not share that responsibility.
However while most separated parents do share equal parental responsibility, practical arrangements often need to be made for the day-to-day care of their children.
The Family Court has decided that practical considerations mean the concept of equal parental responsibility does not necessarily involve the children spending equal amounts of time with both parents. This can be a challenging and difficult issue which requires careful analysis of the circumstances of the children, their parents and the family’s dynamics.

A parenting order formalises parental responsibility, child custody and access arrangements.

Where parents agree about child custody and access arrangements we can readily obtain a parenting order in those terms.
If parents disagree about their child’s care, we assist our client to obtain orders reflecting their instructions about their child’s best interests.

Both parents are usually required to attend counselling in an attempt to resolve any disagreements about parental responsibility, child custody and access arrangements before the Court will impose a decision. We have significant experience in resolving custody and access disputes through mediation and counselling which often avoid the need for a Court hearing.

Parental responsibility, child custody and access disputes cause significant personal and emotional stress. Our lawyers help our clients understand the legal process and find the best way forward.