As a firm dealing specifically with Family Law, we offer the expertise and sensitivity to help you with family law issues concerning your children.
Our service comprises:
- Consent Orders
- Relocation Recovery
- Protection in Care
- Representation in Family Court of Western and Children’s Court
- Mediations and Case Assessment Conferences
Child Custody Law
Australian law focuses on the rights of a child to have an ongoing relationship with both parents.
Joint Parental Responsibility and Shared Care
Joint parental responsibility and shared care means that both parents have legal rights and responsibilities towards the child. It does not mean that the child will necessarily spend half of the time with one parent and half with the other, but that each parent has a say in decisions relating to the child in areas such as health and education.
Even if the child lives with the other parent you may still have joint parental responsibility.
The law ensures that the best interests of the child are paramount. When considering what is in the child’s best interests, the court has to consider facilitating a meaningful relationship between the child and both parents and also protecting the child from harm.
Where do I start?
We will take you through the factors which need to be considered in your situation and document what your proposal for the care arrangements for your child.
If your former partner is agreeable, we can help you formalise the document without proceeding to court action.
If your differences are unable to be settled, then you may wish to have parenting orders issued by the Family Court of Western Australia.
Before you can apply for parenting orders the Court requires that you attend family dispute resolution (FDR). The accredited family dispute resolution practitioner will issue a certificate which must be filed with the court application.
As lawyers experienced in this process we can advise you in regard to the complexities of your specific situation as well as guide you through what can be a stressful and confusing process.