What is a parenting plan?
Whether you have just decided to separate or have been separated for some time, you and the other parent obviously need to think about and agree on arrangements about the children. Many children worry about what will happen to them when their parents split up, and it can be a big relief to them if the arrangements become clear and predictable.
Whatever you agree on about parenting arrangements doesn’t have to be written down, but if you do write it down, a parenting plan is a good way to do it. Agreements can be made in various ways, for example, face-to-face, by telephone or by email.
A Parenting Plan is an agreement that separated parents make about how their children will be cared for and supported. Preparing one yourselves means that you get to make your own decisions that suit your own circumstances. Agreeing about how things that affect your children are going to be organised, as straightforwardly as possible, will be good for your children and is likely to save arguments or misunderstandings along the way.
Can we help you help you with a parenting plan?
Yes, our family law lawyers are experienced at drafting parenting plans and can assist you with this process to hopefully reach a mutually satisfactory outcome between you and your spouse. Obviously, if this is not possible, it may be necessary to seek redress through the Family Court of Australia, however, litigation is usually only ever a last resort because of the expense, delays and complication involved. If you would more legal information or legal advice concerning this area of law, please do not hesitate to contact us regarding the operation of parenting plans in Australian family law. We hope that you will find our lawyers sympathetic to your needs and concerns.