Parenting arrangements and the family court - Covid-19
Important:
If you or your child are in danger, please contact your local police office.
If you or someone else are struggling, please use the resources below
Lifeline on 13 11 14
1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
Headspace on 1800 650 890
Parenting Arrangements & Covid-19 – A Snapshot
- Everyone must follow laws and public health guidelines
- If you currently have Court orders you must continue to follow them if possible.
- You should try to work through any changes with the other parent and come up with an agreement, if that is safe for you and the children.
- If you cannot do this, as a first step contact a Mediator (you are welcome to contact myself on 1800 960 064)
- Otherwise, you must contact your previous lawyer or the family courts for further information. http://www.federalcircuitcourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/fccweb/family-law-matters/divorce-and-separation/ OR http://www.familycourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/fcoaweb/home
*** Please note the courts are providing limited service, so except in the case of urgency and safety, please try an alternative approach.*** - Most law firms are now closed for face to face meetings but are providing online consultations.
Handovers during Covid-19
Many families arrange for handovers to occur in public places such as schools, restaurants etc. As many of these are now closed this may not be possible, or safe. In the first instance, try to reach an agreement with the other parent about any new handover arrangements that will work for everyone, including the children. Remember, this is about the best outcome for your child/children.
What if we cannot agree what should happen?
Parents are usually encouraged to try to work things out, with help from family dispute resolution services if needed. These services are likely to be impacted by Coronavirus and there may be longer delays.
Through my extensive network, I can put you in contact with mediators, child psychologists, parenting co-ordinators and collaborative lawyers available to speak with should you need this service. We will work with you all to ensure the best outcome in the most positive way.
If parents cannot reach an agreement, or if it is not safe for them to communicate, they can apply to a court to decide. The Family Court and Federal Circuit Court have changed the way they work, to reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus at court. Many services are being offered remotely, by phone or video conferencing, and there may be longer delays.
Family Court
http://www.familycourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/fcoaweb/about/news/covid-info-parents
Federal Circuit Court
http://www.federalcircuitcourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/fccweb/about/news/covid-info-parents
Current Legislation & Guidelines
The Australian Government Department of Health has national coronavirus health alerts and information about laws and guidelines that must be followed. You can see updates here: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert
The national hotline is open 24 hours a day seven days a week on on 1800 020 080.
About The Author - Smart Separation.
It is my passion to challenge traditional thinking about divorce, to see common sense prevail so that divorce is separated from ‘the law’ and outside of courts. Apart from mediation and collaboration being my daily bread, as a practitioner and a trainer, I aim to change the world. A little. If you are keen to learn more about reaching an amicable settlement, please call 1800 960 064 for more information or an appointment.