Child Custody
With the breakdown of a relationship, determining the living arrangements of children is often the most emotionally charged issue at hand. At some stage, child custody arrangements will need to be defined. If the parents are unable to negotiate their own arrangements, the Court will make a determination on the matter.
While you will want to obtain the best result for your children, negotiations regarding these issues with your ex-partner can be extremely stressful. This is where our child custody lawyers can help.
Your Child Custody Lawyers
Separation and divorce are very difficult times, especially so when children’s lives and parenting arrangements are at stake. Movement Legal’s team of experienced child custody lawyers are here to give you advice, options, and obtain the fairest result possible. We are here to make sure that your children get the outcome that is in their best interest.
Have the Best Child Custody Lawyers on your Corner with Movement Legal
At Movement Legal, we understand that child custody arrangements and disputes can be emotionally challenging. Our team of experienced child custody lawyers is here to provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate this difficult time. With decades of combined experience in Australian family law, we have the knowledge and expertise to help you develop comprehensive child custody arrangements that protect your children's best interests.
Cost Certainty
We provide our clients with certainty and transparency on our legal fees. Wherever we can, we will quote you a fixed fee, rather than charging you by the hour.
Fast turnaround times
We will come back to you promptly with clear directions as to how we can help you and your matter. We prioritise communication with our clients to bring maximum efficiency into play.
Family law specialists
Our child custody lawyers are family law specialists, and deal with these and related legal issues daily.
We can help you with any aspect of family law - including advice around divorce and separation, child custody, property and financial arrangements, financial agreements, and more.
Book a Free 15 minute call
We're ready to assist you with child custody arrangements. Call or fill in the form - we'll respond promptly. Get sound, practical advice from the best child custody lawyers today.
Additional Frequently Asked Questions
How can I engage Movement Legal?
To begin, simply reach out to us via our contact form or phone. We aim to respond promptly, usually within an hour during business hours. After this, we'll schedule a brief 5 to 20-minute conversation to understand your situation and objectives.
Can I transition to your firm if I'm currently working with another lawyer?
If you are contemplating a change in legal representation, we can manage the process of obtaining your case files from your current attorney on your behalf.
Do I need to visit your office for meetings?
If preferred, there's no need to make the journey to our physical office. We are fully equipped to conduct meetings with you through various remote options, including phone calls, WhatsApp, Zoom, or Google Meet.
What is meant by child custody?
Child custody refers to the legal authority to make decisions regarding a child's upbringing, encompassing aspects such as their living arrangements, education, and healthcare.
In Australia, child custody is commonly referred to as "parental responsibility."
What factors does the court consider?
The court takes into account the best interests of the child, guided by the Family Law Act. Various factors are considered, including the child's meaningful relationship with each parent, safety, cultural and religious background, age, and other pertinent considerations.
Will I have to share custody with my former partner?
Upon separation, both parents retain shared parental responsibility for the child.
This entails joint responsibility for aspects like healthcare, lifestyle, education, and religion.
It doesn't necessarily entail equal time-sharing between parents. There are no rigid rules, but the court's decision hinges on the child's best interests.
Will the court consult the child's preference for living arrangements?
In cases of separated parents, the court may inquire about the child's living preferences. The child's perspective can also be conveyed through an independent child solicitor.
What is a parenting plan?
A parenting plan is a documented agreement between parents outlining how they will care for their children.
It covers matters like living arrangements, school holidays, communication, and various aspects of a child's life. While it is signed by the child's parents and dated, a parenting plan lacks legal enforceability.
What is a parenting order?
A parenting order is issued by the courts when parents cannot reach an agreement on parental arrangements. It specifies how the children will be cared for following separation between co-parents.
These parenting orders are legally binding and must be adhered to.
Can child custody arrangements be modified?
Yes, child custody arrangements can be altered if there is a substantial change in circumstances that affects the child's best interests. Such changes can include alterations in living conditions, the child's health or education needs, or the parents' ability to provide care. A child custody lawyer can assist you in applying to the court for modifications or alterations to an existing child custody arrangement or in seeking to remove parental responsibility from a parent.
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