PARENTING & CHILD CUSTODY LAWYERS SYDNEY
Child custody matters can be one of the most challenging aspects of any family law case. At Ramsden Family Law, we’re here to provide you with comprehensive legal support to help you through this sensitive and complex process.
GUIDING YOU TOWARDS THE BEST OUTCOME FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
Child custody matters can be one of the most challenging aspects of any family law case. At Ramsden Family Law, we’re here to provide you with comprehensive legal support to help you through this sensitive and complex process.
Our experienced team of family lawyers in Sydney is committed to finding the best outcome for your children and you. Begin your journey towards a resolution with the help of our child custody lawyers.
Book a free initial consultation to receive expert guidance tailored to your family’s needs.
OUR EXPERT LEGAL GUIDANCE THROUGH CHILD CUSTODY MATTERS
Understanding that every family situation is unique, our approach is tailored to meet your family’s particular needs. Whether negotiating custody arrangements, dealing with international parental disputes, or providing advice on parental arrangements for children within Australia, including grandchildren, our family law team is equipped to handle all facets of child custody law. We prioritise the best interests of your children, aiming to achieve amicable agreements that provide stability and support for your family’s future.
COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT FOR ALL FAMILY LAW ISSUES IN CHILD CUSTODY
Our family law services extend beyond just legal advice. We understand the emotional toll that custody disputes can take and provide compassionate support throughout the entire process.
As Sydney’s leading family lawyers, our team are skilled in mediation and family dispute resolution, striving to find solutions that minimise conflict and protect the interests of your children. Additionally, we can assist with the court process if necessary, ensuring your case is presented effectively and professionally.
NAVIGATING THE FAMILY LAW ACT
In navigating child custody cases, it is crucial to understand the framework set by the Australian Family Law Act, which places the highest priority on the best interests of the child.
At Ramsden Family Law, we meticulously adhere to these legal principles, ensuring that every case we handle aligns with these fundamental guidelines.
BEST INTERESTS OF THE CHILD
The cornerstone of the Family Law Act is the concept of the ‘best interests of the child’. This principle guides all decisions related to child custody and parenting arrangements. The Act specifies several factors to be considered in determining what best serves the child’s interests, including:
- The child’s relationship with each parent and other significant individuals.
- The need to protect the child from harm or from being exposed to abuse, neglect, or family violence.
- The capacity of each parent or any other relevant person to provide for the child’s needs, including emotional and intellectual ones.
Our legal approach at Ramsden Family Law ensures that these considerations are thoroughly evaluated and form the basis of any custody or parenting plan.
PARENTAL RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES
As of May 2024, the Family Law Act has removed the automatic presumption that both parents have equal parental responsibility over their children. Any allocation of parental responsibility for major long-term decisions is now based on section 61C and what is in the child’s best interests as determined by the new section 60CC provisions. This Act also supports children’s right to a meaningful relationship with both parents, provided it is in their best interests and ensures their safety. The law encourages parents to share duties and responsibilities concerning their children’s care, welfare, and development.
If an order for joint decision-making about any issue is made, then under the new section 61DAA, the parties are required to consult each other person with joint responsibility in relation to each such decision and to make a genuine effort to come to a joint decision. Parents are not required to consult with each other regarding decisions that are not major long-term issues if a child is spending time with that parent.
At Ramsden Family Law, our experienced family lawyers will work with parents to help them understand their rights and responsibilities under the Act.
We strive to develop parenting plans and custody arrangements that reflect these principles, fostering a cooperative approach to co-parenting where possible.
TYPES OF CHILD SUPPORT AGREEMENTS
When it comes to child support matters, there are several types of agreements that can be formalised with your former partner.
BINDING CHILD SUPPORT AGREEMENTS
Binding Child Support Agreements allow parents to determine their child support arrangements. These legally binding agreements require both parties to receive independent legal advice. They can only be altered or terminated by a new agreement or court order, offering a long-term, stable solution for child support.
LIMITED CHILD SUPPORT AGREEMENTS
Limited Child Support Agreements provide a more flexible option, allowing changes under certain conditions without requiring legal advice for creation. These agreements can be a practical solution for parents seeking an arrangement with the potential for adjustment
CHILD SUPPORT ASSESSMENT
Ramsden Family Law offers expert guidance in child support assessments through Human Services Australia, a common aspect of family law matters. Their approach is tailored to each family’s unique situation, such as the time the children spend with each parent and their respective incomes.
LEGAL SOLUTIONS THAT ARE IN THE BEST INTEREST OF YOUR FAMILY
Our team is well-versed in the intricacies of the Family Law Act and how it applies to child custody cases. We are committed to providing tailored legal solutions that uphold your child’s best interests while respecting your rights as a parent.
Whether you seek advice on parenting arrangements, need assistance in a custody dispute, or wish to understand your rights and responsibilities, we provide expert guidance and support.
FREE 30-MINUTE CONSULTATION TO GET STARTED
We offer a free, 30-minute initial consultation to talk about your child custody concerns. These consultations are confidential and can be conducted over the phone or in person at our conveniently located office in Sydney. During this consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and better understand your legal rights and options.
Our Process
1. INITIAL CONSULTATION
Our journey usually begins with a free 30-minute consultation. During this meeting, we’ll discuss the specifics of your child custody situation, understand your priorities, and outline the legal options available. This step is crucial for establishing a clear understanding of your case and for you to gauge how we can best assist you.
2. CASE ASSESSMENT AND STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT
After the initial consultation, our specialist family lawyers will thoroughly assess your case. We consider all relevant factors, such as the child’s best interests, your circumstances, and any legal complexities. Based on this assessment, we develop a tailored strategy to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your children.
3. NEGOTIATION AND MEDIATION
We believe in the power of negotiation and mediation to resolve child custody disputes amicably. Our experienced child custody lawyers are qualified to facilitate discussions and negotiations with the other party, always aiming to reach a mutually agreeable solution without needing court intervention.
4. DOCUMENTATION AND LEGAL FORMALITIES
Once an agreement is reached, we handle all necessary legal documentation to formalise the custody arrangements. This includes drafting parenting plans, consent orders, and other required legal documents, ensuring they accurately reflect the agreed terms and comply with legal standards.
5. COURT REPRESENTATION (IF NEEDED)
Our lawyers are prepared to represent you in family court if an agreement cannot be reached through negotiation or mediation. We provide robust legal representation, advocating for your rights and the best interests of your children throughout the family law court process.
6. ONGOING SUPPORT AND ADVICE
Child custody matters can evolve over time. We offer ongoing support and legal advice to address any changes or new challenges that may arise. Whether it’s modifying child custody arrangements or addressing enforcement issues, we are here to assist you.
7. FINALISATION AND FOLLOW-UP
Our involvement doesn’t end with finalising your custody case. We conduct follow-ups to ensure that all arrangements are being adhered to and to provide any further assistance or advice you may need.
WHY CHOOSE US?
EXPERIENCED FAMILY LAW SPECIALISTS
Our team of Accredited Family Law Specialists brings over 20 years of experience to every child custody case. We ensure the highest standard of legal expertise and a personalised approach to each unique situation, making us a leading choice in Sydney.
COMPASSIONATE & CLIENT FOCUSED APPROACH
We employ innovative strategies and collaborative methods to resolve child custody disputes. Our team works across various legal areas to provide comprehensive solutions, considering every aspect of your family’s needs.
INNOVATIVE & COLABORATIVE SOLUTIONS
We employ innovative strategies and collaborative methods to resolve child custody disputes. Our team works across various legal areas to provide comprehensive solutions, considering every aspect of your family’s needs.
TAILORED STRATEGIES FOR OPTIMAL OUTCOMES
Every family’s situation is unique, and so are our strategies. We tailor our legal approach to suit the specific circumstances of your case, ensuring the best possible outcomes for you and your children.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS CHILD CUSTODY?
Child custody refers to the legal arrangements regarding the care and upbringing of a child after the parents’ separation or divorce. In Australia, the term child custody is not legislated and rather it is used loosely in connection with any time arrangements or decision making a parent may have with a child. This may include decisions about where the child will live, their education, health care, and religious upbringing.
HOW IS CHILD CUSTODY DETERMINED?
Child custody is determined based on the best interests of the child. Factors considered include the child’s age, health, emotional ties to each parent, parents’ lifestyles, and the ability of each parent to provide for the child. Ramsden Family Law prioritises a child-centric approach in these determinations.
CAN CUSTODY ARRANGEMENTS BE MODIFIED?
Yes, custody arrangements can be modified if there’s a significant change in circumstances impacting the child’s welfare. Our team of lawyers can guide you through the legal process of modifying these arrangements.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SOLE AND JOINT CUSTODY?
Sole custody (known in Australia as sole parental responsibility and care) means one parent has exclusive major decision-making rights and time with the child, while joint custody means that both parents may share these major decisions, responsibilities and care. The specifics of joint custody can vary depending on the agreement or court order and can be a mixture of rights.
HOW DO OUR SOLICITORS APPROACH SOLE CUSTODY?
At Ramsden Family Law, we approach child custody cases with sensitivity and professionalism. We focus on the best interests of the child, aiming for amicable solutions while being prepared to advocate vigorously on our client’s behalf if necessary.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR OBTAINING A CHILD CUSTODY AGREEMENT?
The process typically involves negotiation between parents, mediation, and, if necessary, court proceedings. Ramsden Family Law can assist at every stage, from negotiating agreements to representing your interests in court.
ARE GRANDPARENTS' RIGHTS CONSIDERED IN CHILD CUSTODY CASES?
Yes, grandparents’ rights can be considered, especially if they play a significant role in the child’s life. Ramsden Lawyers recognises the importance of extended family and can advise on including grandparents in custody arrangements.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT IN A CHILD CUSTODY CONSULTATION?
In a consultation, expect to discuss the specifics of your situation, receive initial legal advice, and learn about the possible pathways and outcomes for your case. At our family law firm, we offer free 30-minute consultations to start this process.
HOW LONG DOES A CHILD CUSTODY CASE TAKE?
The duration of a child custody case can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the case, cooperation between parties, and court schedules. Our lawyers strive to resolve cases efficiently while ensuring the best outcome for the child.
If parties resolve their matter by consent, consent orders usually take 2 to 4 weeks to be made by the court, from the date of filing.
If the matter is disputed and goes to court, the courts are attempting to finalise matters within 12 months of filing, however this can extend depending on the complexity of the case and availability of Judges to hear the matter on a final basis.
CAN OUR LAWYERS HELP WITH INTERNATIONAL CHILD CUSTODY DISPUTES?
Yes, we have experience dealing with international child custody disputes, including those involving the Hague Convention and international child abduction.
NAVIGATING THE ROPES OF CHILD CUSTODY WITH RAMSDEN FAMILY LAW
At Ramsden Family Law, we blend our comprehensive legal expertise with a compassionate approach to guide you through these challenging times.
Since our firm’s founding in 2003, we have been committed to providing innovative solutions and expert guidance in family law, constantly adapting to the changing dynamics of the legal and business communities. Our child custody lawyers, renowned for their skill and efficiency, are dedicated to delivering tailored solutions that truly reflect the needs of our clients.
We invite you to experience the Ramsden difference. Whether through a phone call, a video conference, or a face-to-face meeting in our Sydney family law firm, we’re here to offer the legal support you need with the utmost care and professionalism.
Contact us today for a smarter perspective on family law and to schedule your no-obligation consultation. Let us help you navigate your family law matter with confidence and clarity.
