Quick tips – a guide to parenting after separation
17
November 2022
If you and your spouse have decided to separate and you have children, one of your major concerns will be the impact that this may have on your children. So, after separation what comes next for your children? Here’s our “quick tips” guide (not an exhaustive list) 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: csa.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.
- If you think your children are struggling mentally or emotionally with the split, 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 type of document is not 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, becomes a court order and 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. For the emotional wellbeing of your children, it’s best to be as amicable as possible with all those significant to their care, welfare and development.
- 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 – a guide to 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 other parenting (former, custody) arrangements, please call us on: (07) 3221 4300 or email: [email protected]
hone or by Microsoft Teams or Zoom.
