What happens if we have children?

Hello Everyone,

Perhaps more than any other question I get asked by clients is what happens with the children now that our relationship is over?

The old days of "Dad's" getting every second weekend are well and truly over.

The Family Law Act provides that children have a right to spend substantial time, but not necessarily equal time with both parents. The Act is primarily concerned about the welfare and happiness of the children rather than the "rights" of the parents.

The court will look at who has been responsible for the children in the past, but this does not prevent working parents from spending substantial time with their children should they be able to alter their working lives to enable this to happen.

The best solution for children is parents who are able to work out where the children will live and what their arrangements will be in an amicable fashion.

Children will be better able to cope if they are getting the same message from both parents and they are assured that they are loved by both of their parents, even if their parents are no longer in love.

Although there are these general guidelines, every family situation is uniquely different and deserves individual attention. With this said please feel free to pick up the phone and call me directly on 96136555 about your family. As well you might want to share this post with someone you know who is going through a difficult time in their relationship and may need some support.

If you have any further queries please feel free to contact Nicola Watts directly at Septimus Jones & Lee on +61 3 9613 6555