Parenting Matters

Helping You Navigate Parenting Arrangements After Separation

Parenting arrangements can be one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of separation. At our Gold Coast based family law firm, we help parents establish clear, child-focused care arrangements that prioritise the best interests of their children.

If you and your ex-partner cannot agree on custody, visitation, or parental responsibilities, our experienced family lawyers can guide you through negotiation, mediation, or Court proceedings to reach a resolution that works for your family.

What Are Parenting Matters?

After separation, parents must determine arrangements for children under 18, including:

• Parental decision-making – Who makes major long-term decisions about the children.
• Living arrangements – Where the children will reside.
• Time with the other parent – How time is shared between parents.
• Day-to-day logistics – Changeovers, school drop-offs, and communication.
• Long-term decisions – Matters such as:
  • The child’s surname
  • Education & religious upbringing
  • Overseas travel & relocation
  • Child support & financial responsibilities

If parents cannot agree, the Family Court can make legally binding decisions in the best interests of the child.

How Our Family Lawyers Can Help

1. Legal Advice & Parenting Plans

If you’re unsure about what arrangements to make, we provide tailored legal advice to help you understand your rights and responsibilities. We can assist with drafting a Parenting Plan – a flexible agreement that outlines parenting arrangements without involving the Court.

2. Consent Orders – Making Parenting Arrangements Legally Binding

If you and your ex-partner reach an agreement, we can formalise it through Consent Orders, which are legally enforceable and ensure clarity for both parents moving forward.

3. Negotiation & Mediation

We encourage collaborative co-parenting to minimise conflict and legal costs. If direct discussions are not possible, we can represent you in negotiations or mediation to help reach an agreement without going to Court.

4. Court Applications for Parenting Orders

If an agreement cannot be reached or if there are urgent concerns (such as family violence or child safety), we can assist you in applying to the Family Court for Parenting Orders. These orders may cover:

• Who the child lives with
• Time spent with each parent
• Specific parental responsibilities

If you already have existing Parenting Orders but they are no longer working, we can help apply for modifications to better suit your child’s evolving needs.

Urgent Parenting Matters – What to Do

If you are facing an urgent situation—such as a parent breaching court orders or a child being relocated without consent—you may need to seek immediate legal intervention.

We can assist with:

• Urgent Court applications to secure or modify parenting arrangements.
• Recovery Orders if a child has been taken without consent.
• Intervention Orders for protection in high-risk situations.

If you need urgent legal assistance, contact us immediately for expert advice and representation.

Need Parenting Arrangements Legal Advice? Contact Us Today

If you are facing a family law issue, don’t navigate it alone. Contact Robbins Watson Solicitors today to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced family lawyers. 

To book an appointment, you can:

• Call us on 07 5576 9999
• Book an appointment online by clicking here
• Fill out our online enquiry form by clicking here

Alternatively, you can get started online now and receive a free personalised welcome pack in minutes.

📖 Read More: See our blog article Navigating the Complexities of Child Custody: Tips for Achieving the Best Outcome for Your Family