When parents separate, decisions about the care of their children are governed by the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth), and the paramount consideration is the best interests of the child, not the rights or preferences of either parent. We help parents reach and formalise workable arrangements. Most parenting arrangements are settled without a court hearing. When they can’t be, our team have years of experience representing clients in Court to achieve child-focused results.
How we help
We focus on practical arrangements that work for your children and reduce conflict. We:
- Advise on care arrangements and what the court would consider.
- Negotiate and prepare parenting plans and consent orders.
- Guide you through family dispute resolution before any court application.
- Act in court proceedings where agreement is not possible, or where orders are not being followed.
Why parents choose Mullane Lindsay
Our family law team is led by accredited specialists Catherine Williams and Ashleigh John, and is recognised in the Doyles Guide. Backed by the firm since 1976, we bring clarity and compassion to parenting matters, and we keep the focus where it belongs, on the children.
How are parenting arrangements decided?
The court must decide what is in the child’s best interests, considering the safety of the child and carers, any views the child has expressed, the child’s developmental, emotional, psychological and cultural needs, each person’s capacity to meet them, and the benefit of a relationship with each parent. Any history of family violence is a central consideration. The right arrangement depends on your family and your child’s needs.
Parental responsibility, decision-making and time
These are distinct. Parental responsibility is the duties and authority a parent has for a child. Decision-making responsibility is the authority to make major long-term decisions, such as education, major health, and where the child lives, and the court can allocate it to one person or jointly. “Live with and spend time with” is the separate question of where the child lives and the time they spend with each parent. We explain how each applies to your situation.
