Separating from a spouse isn’t ever simple — much less when there are children involved. One of parents’ greatest fears is determining what comes next: Where do the children live? What are holiday arrangements going to be like? How do we make decisions together as coparents?
That’s where Sydney’s family law services come in. They remove the stress and uncertainty from child custody arrangements, as well as from managing a child’s upbringing — and ensure that the children’s best interests are put first.
Let us look more closely how they assist:
Understanding Legal Rights and Obligations
Few parents are aware of where to start when considering custody laws in Australia. In Australia, there’s no more legal term of “custody.” The law refers to living arrangements, spending time with the child, and parental responsibility. Lawyers discuss these terms and what rights you have using the Family Law Act 1975.
Whether you are hoping for joint equal time, or worry about what would be best for your child, your attorney can clearly outline your situation and legal choices to you.
Drawing Up a Parenting Agreement
One of the key priorities after separation is making a parenting agreement — a written document that describes how parents are going to share responsibility for looking after a child.
A family lawyer can assist you:
- Draft the agreement
- Ensure that it is realistic and descriptive (e.g., school pickups, birthdays, holidays)
- Ensure that it serves the best interest of the child
- You should submit it to court if you wish to make it legally binding
A well-prepared agreement prevents misunderstandings and establishes clear expectations between all parties involved.
Presenting You in Court (If Necessary)
If you have attempted to come to an agreement, but have been unable to do so, going to court might become an option next. In such instances, your family attorney will assist you through the court system and represent you along the way.
JJ Lawyers will assist you in presenting proof, filing forms, and making arguments in favor of arrangements that address your child’s welfare. Family courts universally prioritize a child’s safety, stability, and emotional needs — and a capable attorney makes sure those needs are voiced.
Assisting in Mediation and Negotiation
Parents do not always see eye to eye about what’s best for the children. That’s true — but that’s no reason to go to court immediately. Numerous Sydney family services provide or link you to mediation services, where both parents sit down together with an impartial third party to come up with a plan together.
You can have your lawyer along at the mediation, or have your lawyer assist you in preparation prior to attending the mediation. The objective is to not have a lengthy, expensive court fight and have things as harmonious as possible for your child. Whether you require amending a contract or encountering a conflict later, your attorney can guide you through modifications smoothly.
Family law services in Sydney do more than attend to paperwork; they provide guidance, advice, and legal protection at a most sensitive point in a family’s life. When navigating through child custody and parenting, having appropriate legal assistance can bring clarity of mind, confidence, and peace of mind. Struggling to make a parenting agreement or settle a custody issue? A family attorney makes all the difference.
