What does the law say about child custody?

What does the law say about child custody?

Each parent ordinarily has parental responsibility for the child regardless of whether they are married, in a de facto relationship, never in a relationship or otherwise. This means that both parents can independently make decisions about the child.

How do family courts resolve child custody issues?

Child custody can be resolved through informal negotiations between the parents or other parties (usually with attorneys), through use of out-of-court alternative dispute resolution (ADR) proceedings that tend to facilitate a voluntary settlement, or in the traditional court setting — where a family court judge makes …

Can you claim legal aid for child custody?

Non means tested legal aid is available if your child is subject of care or supervision proceedings . You may qualify for legal aid for some injunctions, such as a non-molestation order, but you might be required to make a contribution.

What to do if parents can’t agree on child custody?

If parents can’t agree on arrangements for children after separation, specialist family mediation services can help parents come to a mutually agreeable decision or compromise. If parents still can’t agree, a judge in a family law court will make a decision.

What should you know about child custody matters?

Children still require you to be there for them and to retain a sense of normality no matter how small that is. While it is easy to consider leaning on your teenage child’s shoulder for emotional comfort, this should never occur. Remember your children are looking to you for guidance, not the other way around. 3.

How to prepare for a child custody case?

For each topic, find instructions, forms, and answers to frequently asked questions. Understand the law in custody and parenting time (visitation) cases, how to make agreements between the parents, ask for a custody order, respond to a request, and change or enforce an order.

How does the Family Law Act protect children?

The Act aims to ensure that children can enjoy a meaningful relationship with each of their parents, and are protected from harm. The Family Law Act makes clear that: both parents are responsible for the care and welfare of their children until the children reach 18, and