Children's issues and parenting orders
After separation both parents continue to have joint responsibility for making decisions about both the day to day and long term care, welfare and development of children.

Many separating parents wish to distinguish their rights and responsibilities for children and negotiate orders which are called Parenting Orders.

There are three main types of Parenting Orders:
• Residence Orders - orders that specify the parent with whom the child lives.
• Contact Orders - orders that specify the parent with whom the child will have contact and when.
• Specific Issues Orders - orders dealing with any other aspect of parental responsibility generally relating to the special needs of a child or children eg regarding religion, schooling and the like

Most Parenting Orders are negotiated directly between parents or with the assistance of mediators or counsellors or with the assistance of lawyers.

If there is any dispute about appropriate arrangements for children then an application can be made to a court to determine appropriate orders and the court makes its decision based on a number of factors but the paramount consideration is the welfare of the children.

Parenting Orders may be applied for by any person concerned with the care, welfare and development of children. This is normally the parents but also may include other people - for example, grandparents, step-parents and other concerned persons applying for contact orders.

We can assist you by advising about appropriate Parenting Orders, negotiating Parenting Orders, drawing appropriate documents, acting in court proceedings or assisting in mediations.