Highly Experienced in Children's & Parenting Matters cases
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When it comes to your children and what is in their best interests, we understand that you have to fight for what is right.

When it comes to your children and their best interests, you need expert legal guidance to ensure their well-being. Under the Family Law Act 1975, children should have a meaningful relationship with both parents, but decisions should always prioritize the child’s best interests. Our Child Custody Lawyers specialize in Children’s & Parenting Matters, helping parents navigate this complex legal landscape.

Understanding Equal Shared Parental Responsibility

Under Australian family law, parents typically share “equal shared parental responsibility.” This means both parents have the right to make decisions about major long-term issues, including schooling, health, and religious practices. However, in some situations, parental responsibility may be altered or even removed in extreme cases.

Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) – A Vital Step

Before pursuing court proceedings, parents or guardians must attend Family Dispute Resolution (FDR). FDR is a mediation process designed to facilitate agreements that prioritise the child’s best interests and the family’s future. It’s a crucial step to reach a resolution before heading to court.

Please note that cases involving family violence, intervention orders, child abuse, or urgent matters may be exempt from FDR.

How Oxford Partners Can Assist

Oxford Partners is your partner in ensuring the well-being of your children during separation. We connect you with the right resources, such as information, counselling, dispute resolution, and group programs, to help you mediate children and parenting matters successfully.

The Role of a “Child Custody” Lawyer in Children’s & Parenting Matters

In Australia, the legal terminology used for child custody arrangements is “Children’s & Parenting Matters.” While “child custody” is more commonly known, our experienced lawyers work within this preferred terminology to provide you with the best possible legal support.

Our primary goal is to encourage co-parenting when it’s in the best interests of the children. When parents can agree on arrangements, we can formalize them. However, if disputes persist, we will initiate court proceedings on your behalf, ensuring the child’s best interests are safeguarded.

What Factors Are Considered When Agreeing on Children’s & Parenting Matters?

• When deciding on matters as a “child custody” lawyer, we look at numerous factors, some may include:
• Where should the children live?How much time should the child spend with the other parent?
• What is to happen if a party wishes to take the child on an overseas holiday?
• Are there any issues or safety concerns with the child spending more or significant time with one party?
• What will happen on the child’s birthday?
• How will third parties wanting to spend significant time with the child or children (such as grandparents, aunts and uncles) be handled?

Some of these issues may be agreed between the two parents. However, in the event that this does not occur, it may be necessary for the parties to obtain a Family Report. Our “child custody” lawyers will sit down with you during your first consultation and explain the process with you in detail and what the potential outcome could be for you in this highly stressful time.