Tips for Parents Going to the Family Court

Think on the following issues when you go to court seeking parenting orders:

Be calm

The judicial officer hearing your case for parenting orders will look at what you have to offer as a parent. Try not to appear to be bumbling and unsure of yourself or a complete emotional wreck.

What is the court looking for?

The critical issue at all times will be to determine what will be in the best interests of the child. Who will be the best parent? Who will provide appropriately for the child’s emotional and physical requirement s?

This is not about the effect your ex has on you but the effect he/she has on your child.

Show the court that you want your child to have a meaningful and positive relationship with their father or mother as the case may but at the same time you want them to be safe.

Read

Your lawyer will provide you will extracts of the legislation and brochures. Read them carefully to see what the court will consider.

Read other judgments that have appeared on the Family Court or the Federal Circuit Court websites.

Google and look at Austlii for the cases.

Read what the judges say, the language used and above all the reasons for judgment. From all of this research and “homework” you consider how to present yourself, what to say, what to avoid, what to look out for.

Courses

Do a separating parents course as this may well assist you in moving forward.