It is often the case that despite separation, parents can come to an agreement regarding the future care of their children without need for a Judge to determine their case. 

This is something that is supported by the Family Law system in Australia, and an approach that is supported fully by the family law team at Sanicki Lawyers.

We can help you to negotiate parenting arrangements that are in the best interests of your children then formalise the arrangements (if desired) by way of a parenting plan or formal Court Orders.

This can often be done without any need for any party to step foot in a Court room at any time.

Issues that are often negotiated include:

• Who has parental responsibility for the child/children;
• With whom does the child/children live, and how much time do they spend with the non-resident parent – including time during the school terms, school  holidays and special days such as birthdays, religious feasts plus Mothers Day and Fathers Day;
• How to ensure the child/children spend(s) time with other people important to the child, including siblings, step siblings, grandparents and relatives;
• Changeover/transport arrangements for children between parents;
• What school does the child/children go to;
• What should be done about any high needs of the child – such as needs for specialist medical care, dietary requirements or educational support;
• What is the child’s religious or cultural identity, and what should be done to support their relationship or cultural identity;
• Should the child be permitted to travel overseas, and if so, on what conditions; and
• Are there any risk issues for the children in the care of either parent (or other care givers) – and what protections need to be put in place to ensure the child/children is/are protected from harm.

If you have a parenting dispute and you’d like some guidance, legal advice or representation from one of our experienced team to negotiate and formalise parenting arrangements, please contact Stephanie Hope, Senior Associate at Sanicki Lawyers and head of the Family Law Team at [email protected] or on 03 9510 9888.