Quick tips – a guide to parenting after separation
16
October 2023
If you and your spouse have decided to separate and you have children, one of your major concerns will be the impact on your children.
So, after separation what comes next for your children?
Here’s our “quick tips” guide to helping you with parenting arrangements after separation.
- Shared parenting does not always mean equal time for each parent. It could be equal time for both parents, or it could be frequent visits with one parent.
- Both parents legally must provide financially for children. The formula for working out child support can be found at: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/
- Try and get on as amicably as you can with your ex. You are still both parents of your children, and it’s important for their wellbeing that you can at least be polite to each other.
- Talk to your children and depending on their age and level of maturity consider any wishes they might have. If you think they’re struggling mentally or emotionally with the split, speak with your co-parent and reach out and get professional help for them.
- An agreed arrangement is the ideal. If you and your spouse are comfortable talking, try and work out a parenting plan with your former partner. This is not something that is lodged with the court and does not become a court order. It’s a flexible arrangement that you have both agreed on.
- A consent order is an alternative document to record your agreement. A consent order is lodged with the court, is legally binding and enforceable and difficult to change.
- Give your children as much certainty as possible. Make sure they know in advance where they’re going to be on which days. You can use parenting or calendar apps for this, or even a colourful chart on the wall for younger children.
- Try and stay on good terms with all of your children’s grandparents. Children have a right to a relationship with significant people including grandparents (if this is safe and appropriate). For the emotional wellbeing of your children, it’s best to be as amicable as possible.
- Look after you, if you need support speak with a counsellor. Parenting is a busy and stressful part of life at the best of times, let alone when you’re going through a relationship break down. If you take care of yourself and your mental health, you’ll be able to better care for your children.
- Get your own specialist Family Law advice, don’t follow the experience of others.
- Read our article “quick tips -Practical tips to surviving separation”.
The experts at Michael Lynch Family Lawyers are here to help you through this time. If you need advice about parenting orders, shared care, or custody arrangements, please call us on: (07) 3221 4300 or email: [email protected]
