Expert legal guidance to secure the best arrangements for your children's future
Find Specialized LawyersParenting orders are legally binding decisions made by the Family Court or Federal Circuit Court that determine the arrangements for children after separation. These orders establish where children will live, how much time they spend with each parent, and how parents will share decision-making responsibilities.
In Melbourne, experienced family lawyers can help you navigate the complex process of obtaining parenting orders that prioritize your children's best interests while protecting your parental rights.
Orders determining where children will primarily live and how time is divided between parents. This includes sole custody, shared care, or specific time allocations.
Orders outlining how major long-term decisions about children are made, including education, health care, religious upbringing, and extracurricular activities.
Arrangements for how children maintain contact with the non-residential parent through phone calls, video chats, emails, and letters.
Orders addressing particular concerns such as overseas travel, relocation, medical procedures, or enrollment in specific schools.
Before applying to court, you must typically attempt mediation through an accredited Family Dispute Resolution practitioner, unless exemptions apply due to family violence or urgency.
Submit an Initiating Application along with supporting affidavits and required documents to either the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.
The court will schedule a first return date where procedural matters are addressed and interim orders may be made if necessary for children's immediate welfare.
The court may order a family report from a qualified professional to assess the children's needs and family dynamics. Both parties present evidence supporting their proposed arrangements.
If agreement isn't reached, the matter proceeds to a final hearing where a judge makes binding decisions based on the children's best interests.
The paramount consideration in all parenting matters is the children's best interests, including:
When making parenting orders, courts evaluate:
Connect with experienced family lawyers in Melbourne who specialize in parenting orders and children's matters.
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