Child Custody
Being able to openly communicate and reach an agreement with your partner will not only make life easier for both parents but it will also be a much better outcome for your child. When the time comes to jointly make decisions about their future, the relationship will be less strained than if you had settled the dispute in court.
Speaking to a solicitor will help you to understand your rights and obligations in relation to parenting and custody issues. They will inform you of alternative methods to settle the dispute and if necessary; explain the process involved with court proceedings.
More information about Child Custody.
Child Support
Child support is financial support paid from one carer to another for the benefit of the child. A person must pay child support if they are the legal parent and either a resident of Australia or a resident in a prescribed overseas jurisdiction.
It is the responsibility of both parents to financially support their children irrespective of whether:
- they spend time with them; or
- they were planned.
Payments can be made periodically, in lump sums or when required, such as for school fees. If a child is over the age of 18, married or in a de facto relationship, they will not be eligible to receive child support.
More information about Child Support.
Parenting Orders
Being able to openly communicate and reach an agreement with your partner will not only make life easier for both parents but it will also be a much better outcome for your child. When the time comes to jointly make decisions about their future, the relationship will be less strained than if you had settled the dispute in court.
With that said, there are certain situations where the parties cannot agree and litigation is simply unavoidable. In these circumstances, you can apply to the Family Court for Parenting Orders.
Such orders will often cover the following:
- Who the child will live with;
- Time that each parent will spend with the child;
- Allocated parental responsibilities;
- Consultation requirements;
- Dispute resolution processes
More information about Parenting Orders.
Parenting Plans
Parenting plans are voluntary agreements, which the parties involved will write, date and sign. They allow parents to remain in control of the process and help to avoid stressful and costly court proceedings.
It is important that parents consider what is best for the child when documenting the agreement.