Parenting issues

When people separate, one of the most important decisions to make is what the care arrangements for their children should be. The Family Court can make a Parenting Order when two separated parents are unable to agree on day to day care and contact arrangements for their children.
When people separate, one of the most important decisions to make is what the care arrangements for their children should be. The Family Court can make a Parenting Order when two separated parents are unable to agree on day to day care and contact arrangements for their children.

Parenting - shutterstock_585413846

Stabilising care arrangements for children is a critical part of moving forward when you are going through a separation. The team at The Law Shop can assist if you are having difficulty in resolving these matters.

Where a parenting dispute is non-urgent, separated parents will be encouraged to attend an out of court mediation process in the first instance, known as Family Dispute Resolution. Lawyers will not be involved in that mediation process itself, but we can assist you in obtaining some initial advice and making a referral to Family Dispute Resolution.

If the dispute is urgent, it may be appropriate to file a without notice application with the Court. We can assist you with the preparation and filing of that documentation.

You can apply for a parenting order if you are:

  • A parent of the child
  • A partner of one of the parents if you have been sharing the day to day care of the child
  • A grandparent or other family member and the Court gives you permission to apply
  • Any other person that the Court gives permission to apply

Our Family Law team offer legal aid which may be available to you, depending on your financial circumstances. We can assist you in finding a parenting arrangement that is right for you and your family so do not hesitate to contact us - 0800 LAW SHOP - team@thelawshop.co.nz.