May 05, 2016
This month, we are moving from family law property matters to family law parenting matters. Parenting matters are concerned with the children of a relationship after that relationship breaks down. Whilst the breakdown of a relationship is horrible for those actually in the relationship, it is just as hard (if not harder!) for the children of the relationship. A parenting matter seeks to manage the issues that arise from a familial breakdown in relation to the children.
What?
A family law parenting matter considers the rights and responsibilities of the parents in relation to their children. In effect, is it about who cares for what in relation to the children.
The question arises: now that the parents are no longer together as a couple how will the children be looked after? Other parties apart from the parents and children such as concerned grandparents and relatives may also be impacted by a parenting matter.
A parenting matter needs to consider the best interests of the child. This is the paramount consideration in this area of family law.
Why does it matter?
Children need stability and assurance that they will be cared for, especially during in the breakdown of family relationships. The finalisation of a parenting matter provides this level of stability in many aspects of the children’s lives.
Generally, Consent Orders should be sought to finalise the arrangement or agreement for the care of the children. These Orders can consider things like:
- who cares for the children on what days
- what school the children might go to
- who pays for the school fees and any medical expenses
- which parent has care of the children for what parts of the holidays
- whether the parent can call the child at any time
- what the protocol is if you want to travel overseas with the children
To find out more or sign up for our weekly newsletter update listing new articles, contact us on 9688 6023 or email jfrank@franklegal.com.au
This article is provided to the reader for general information. It is not legal advice. This article was written by Andrea Spencer & Emily Graham and edited by James Frank.
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