CHILD CUSTODY & PARENTING ARRANGEMENTS Lawyers Sydney

Separation Law Experts: Support with Family, Finances & Parenting
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CHILD CUSTODY AND PARENTING ARRANGEMENTS WHEN SEPARATING

Finding Common Ground for Your Children

The breakdown of a relationship is difficult, but when children are involved, it can feel overwhelming. Suddenly, you’re faced with tough questions about their future—where they’ll live, where they’ll go to school, and how you’ll both continue to be a part of their lives. These decisions can be emotionally charged, and it’s easy to get stuck.

We understand that what you want most is a workable, stable future for your children, one that protects their best interests and allows them to thrive. Our goal is to help you and your former partner find common ground and reach a clear, lasting agreement on your parenting arrangements.

OUR APPROACH TO CHILD CUSTODY & PARENTING MATTERS

We focus on solutions that put your children first. The law requires that all decisions about children are made with their best interests as the paramount consideration, and that’s the principle that guides our work.

We can help you navigate the process of reaching an agreement by:

  • Providing clear advice: We’ll explain your rights and responsibilities so you have a solid understanding of the law and the options available to you.
  • Facilitating negotiation: We work to reduce conflict and encourage a productive, respectful dialogue between you and the other parent, helping you find a path forward together.
  • Drafting legal documents: Once an agreement is reached, we can formaliSe it into a legally binding document, known as Consent Orders, ensuring clarity and enforceability for the future. To find out more about Consent Orders, visit our Consent Orders page here.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU WORK WITH US

STEP 1. CONSULTATION

 

We’ll meet with you to understand your unique situation, your concerns, and your goals for your children.

STEP 2. Strategy & Negotiation

Based on your needs, we’ll develop a clear strategy to help you and the other parent reach an agreement. We’ll assist with negotiations, whether directly or through mediation.

STEP 3. FINALISATION

Once an agreement is reached, we will draft all necessary documents to make it official and legally enforceable, providing you with certainty and peace of mind.

We believe that with the right guidance, you can secure a positive future for your children.

If an agreement can’t be reached, we can advocate for you in court to protect your and your children’s best interests.

KEY PARENTING ISSUES TO DECIDE

When parents separate, they must make decisions about their children, covering these main areas:

Parental Responsibility:

This is the collective term for the decisions parents make about a child’s upbringing. Decisions can be made jointly or solely by one parent.

Children’s Time and Living Arrangements:

ResidenceThe court or parents decide where the child will primarily live. 

Spend time / ContactHow much time the child will spend with the parent they don’t primarily live with. 

Major Long-Term Issues:

HealthDecisions about medical treatment. 

EducationWhere the child attends school. 
Cultural and Religious UpbringingArrangements for the child’s cultural and religious development. 

guiding factors to consider

The Court is guided by what is in the child’s best interests and considers various factors, including:
Safety and Well-being

Arrangements to protect the child and anyone caring for them from harm, abuse, neglect, or family violence. 

Children’s Views

The views of the child, taking into account their age and understanding. 

Parental Capacity

The ability of each parent to provide for the child’s developmental, psychological, emotional, and cultural needs. 

Significant Relationships

The importance of the child maintaining a relationship with both parents, siblings, grandparents, and other significant people. 

Cultural and Indigenous Connection
The right of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children to connect with their culture. 

Discover Our Fixed Fee Options

WE also OFFER SOME FIXED-FEE OPTIONS FOR CONSENT ORDERS – Are THESE right for you?


Our Fixed-Fee Consent Orders options are ideal if you and your ex:

 

  • Have already reached a mutual agreement on parenting arrangements and/or property / financial division and would like to enter into Consent Orders.
  • Have worked out the bulk of your agreement but need some guidance to resolve minor details.
  • Seek to formalise your agreement into legally binding documents.
  • Desire a cost-effective and stress-free legal process.
  • Want to avoid lengthy and expensive court proceedings.

Take the First Step Towards Clarity

You don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. We invite you to contact us for a confidential initial consultation. This is an opportunity to discuss your situation, understand your legal options, and gain peace of mind about the path ahead.

Contact Us Today

Ready to take the first step? Call us on 02 8528 7590 or fill out our online inquiry form to schedule your consultation. Our office is conveniently located in Burwood, NSW. Alternatively, we offer online appointments via Zoom.

Let us help you move forward with confidence.

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