Navigating Child Custody, Parenting Arrangements and Parenting Plans in Cairns: What You Need to Know Child custody is a sensitive and complex issue that often arises during or after a divorce or separation. In Cairns, like the rest of Australia, family law prioritises the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements. Understanding the key issues and legal considerations related to child custody and parenting plans is crucial for anyone going through this challenging process. Understanding Child Custody in...
PARENTING – Schooling – Where the parents seek that their children attend different schools The relevant authorities set out some of the applicable principles as follows: Schooling disputes are not resolved by the application of a “blanket presumption” or preference for the views held by the residential parent. The Court is required to apply the objects and principles of Part VII of the Family Law Act and to consider the statutory criteria in forming conclusions about the child’s best interests. Section...
Can Family Court Make An Order In Relation To An Unborn Child? No! The Family Court is powerless to make orders prior to the birth of the child. As a family lawyer, I often receive inquiries from soon-to-be fathers wanting to know their rights in relation to their unborn child. In a recent matter, the father gave instructions in relation to his partner’s pregnancy. The expected date of birth of the child was three weeks from the date I received...
Equal Shared Parental Responsibility A typical parenting order made by the Court will involve equal shared parental responsibility. This essentially means that both parents are required to consult each other on the major long-term issues of the children which relate to the order. Whilst the definition of “major issues” is not meant to be exhaustive, the five most common issues related to: The child’s education (both currently and any future needs); The child’s religious and cultural upbringing (this is particularly...