Agreement Without Court
CHILDREN & PARENTING ISSUES
Especially regarding children, it is important to avoid Court if possible. The conflict will make things worse.
An agreement can be obtained without going to Court. This is possible with what is called Consent Orders, and with children there is the additional option of a parenting plan.
CHILDREN - Important to Consider
When working out the arrangements for children there are many factors to take into account. There are two primary considerations and many others. But always, the guiding principal is what is best for the child.
Best Interest of the Child
Best Interests of Children
There are no set or standard parenting arrangements.
There is no automatic 50/50 or Dad gets every second weekend and half the holidays.
The overriding factor is; "What is in the best interests of he children"
Primary Consideration ONE
Maintain Relationship with Both Parents
Maintain Relationship with Both Parents
When working out what is in the best interest of the children, it is a primary consideration that the children have a meaningful relationship with both parents.
Importantly, this consideration comes second to protecting the child from family violence.
Primary Consideration TWO
Protect from Family Violence
Protect from Family Violence
More important than anything else is to protect the children from family violence.
Keeping in mind the wide definition of family violence.
CHILD FOCUSED
CHILD FOCUSED
When assessing all issues it is important to be child focused. This means, look at issues though the child's eyes. How does it affect them?
If an issues is unfair to a parent, but best for the child, then the child comes first.
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Types of Parenting Agreements
There are three options for a parenting agreement.
A Handshake
Parenting Plan
Consent Orders
MEDIATION
Mediation has a greater importance in parenting issues.
It can be a good way to discuss issues and maybe even reach agreement.
It is compulsory to try before starting court action (but there are exceptions).
There are many low or no cost options. Such as through Relationships Austrialia