CHILDREN

CHILDREN

Family Law can be quite complicated and particularly stressful for all parties involved.  The Family Court of Australia is continuously developing programs to improve outcomes for disputed parties, especially for the children.

One major recent change implemented by the Family Court of Australia is the introduction of the Children’s Case Pilot program.  Basically, the Family Court is attempting to focus on achieving better outcomes for the children of the parents in a dispute.  The program encourages parties to spend less time in Court and encourages mediation. 

Another major change is the introduction of the Family Law Amendment (Shared Responsibility) Act 2006.  The Act established 65 Family Relationship Centres for the benefit of families in dispute.  The Court will require families to attempt to resolve their conflict before their application is heard in the Court, in hope that Court proceedings will be avoided.

Further, the Act has changed the way the Courts deal with issues with respect to children.  That is, the Courts will initially begin with requiring both parents to have equal roles in deciding major issues with respect to their children.  However, the Act does not state how parents are to exercise this right. In the absence of an agreement between the parents, this can be overcome by creating a Parenting Plan or Parenting Order.

More importantly, the Court will consider initially whether it is appropriate that the children spend equal time with both parents.  Various factors come into play that the judges consider as their ultimate goal is what they believe is in the best interests of the child.

The law provides that parental responsibility ends once the child turns 18 years old or the child is adopted. 

Please do not hesitate to "Call Us" for immediate professional advice    

Antwan Lawyers understands disputes involving children.  We also understand the Family Court processes.  We assist you in identifying the real issues of your dispute and actively attempt to settle the dispute to avoid unnecessary Court appearances and to reduce your costs and time. 

We provide clear advice and invite your questions so that you too can better understand your matter.

Ultimately, we understand that children are fragile.  Therefore, resolving disputes early is more beneficial for your children and consequently is better for you.