Finding the right child custody arrangements can be challenging. But finding a co-parenting solution that is in the best interests of the child or children is essential for their wellbeing. The team at Melbourne Law Studio has put together this short guide to help you on your first steps.
Child custody is a term used to describe the legal and practical relationship between a parent or guardian and a child in that person's care. It typically encompasses arrangements for who the child is to live with, spends time with and communicates with. Agreeing on child custody arrangements following a separation is important for providing your children with the support and stability they need.
Depending on the circumstances, it can involve informal written agreements or formal court orders. Either way, the goal is to establish a constructive co-parenting relationship that provides children with the care, safety and security they need. The Family Court prioritises a child’s best interests in all legal matters related to co-parenting and child custody.
A parenting or child custody agreement involves recording agreed upon arrangements for looking after children. It’s a good idea to seek advice from a family lawyer for help drafting an agreement that is effective and fair for your unique circumstances. Some key considerations include:
While some parents are able to manage via informal parenting arrangements, there is always a risk of future conflict. By having a written record, everyone can be clear on what the agreed upon arrangements are.
If parents can’t agree on arrangements for children after separation, family lawyers can mediate and help parents come to an agreeable decision or compromise. If parents can’t agree, the family law court will make a decision based on the best interests of the child in accordance with the Family Law Act.
When you’re looking for child custody lawyers Melbourne and Victoria-based parents can count on, contact the experienced team at Melbourne Law Studio. We can help mediate disputes and guide you through how parenting arrangements work and the process of determining an ideal custody agreement. Call us today on 03 9021 1421 or contact us online.
Absolutely fantastic service. Highly recommend. The team at Melbourne Law Studio was very helpful and professional keeping me updated at all stages of the process providing the best of guidance and clarity in my personal matters. Demi was outstanding in the services provided from start to finish, very helpful and insightful with prompt responses to all my queries, making the whole process far less stressful. Thank you Ines, Demi and the team for helping me move on with my life. I would highly recommend Demi and the MLS team as a whole.
Melbourne Law Studio was a beacon of hope during a very challenging time in my life. The staff was empathetic, knowledgeable, and professional. They guided me through every step of my family law matter, providing clear explanations and support. I felt reassured knowing I had a strong team advocating for my rights. I am grateful for their hard work and commitment to achieving a fair outcome.
Going through a separation was one of the toughest experiences, but Melbourne Law Studio made it feel manageable. Even though it could get emotionally overwhelming, I could see a light at the end of the tunnel. Ines was patient, listened to all my concerns, and treated me with respect and kindness. She has a really easy demeanour about her and I felt like her and the team had my back every step of the way. I can’t thank MSL enough for their support.
After my separation, a friend suggested I reach out to Ines at MLS. From the start, she was not only professional but also genuinely supportive and open about the process, costs, and the likely outcomes. Her approach was in line with my goal of reaching a fair and amicable resolution. I’m really grateful for her kindness and attention to detail. Thank you
From the first call I felt like I was in the right hands with Melbourne Law Studio. They were friendly and made me feel heard. Ines and her team went above and beyond to make sure I understood all my options and helped develop a strategy to get the best result in what was a really messy parenting dispute. Their personal approach and genuine care made me feel like I was always welcome to call them and see what was happening or what was next, the waiting sometimes for the other side was hard so I’m truly grateful for that.
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