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Parenting Plans & Children’s Law

Without a doubt, one of the most challenging aspects of navigating the breakdown of a relationship is coming to an agreement on the future care, living and parenting arrangements for your children.

Family law can be a complex field to navigate, and getting specialist legal advice is of the utmost importance to ensure that your children’s best interests are considered. At Strategic Lawyers Townsville, we’ll provide the assistance and guidance you need during this time — always acting to benefit your children.

A tailored approach to family law

Our family lawyers in Townsville will provide a tailored approach, specific to your unique case and needs, to help you achieve the best and fairest outcome. We are experts in the area of negotiation and can help you reach an agreement with your ex-partner through a negotiated settlement. In more complex cases, we can also assist with mediation, helping families achieve issue resolution.

Where possible, it is always preferable to reach an agreement on custody and parenting issues outside of court. At Strategic Lawyers, we’ll work on your behalf to negotiate and formalise a resolution without the need for long and expensive court proceedings. If there is no alternative but to proceed to court, you can be sure that Strategic Lawyers Townsville will fight to ensure the fairest outcome is achieved and that your interests are well looked after and protected.

Formalising parental agreements

When it comes to finalising parenting and custody arrangements for your children, there is the choice of a voluntary (and informal) parenting plan or a legally binding (and formal) consent order. While both documents may contain similar information relating to the future care, welfare and development of your children, the main difference between the two is that a consent order is legally enforceable, and therefore cannot be easily changed. It is also subject to penalties if contravened.

There are pros and cons to both parenting plans and consent orders, so it’s important that you receive tailored, expert advice as to the best option for your family’s circumstances. As with all of our family law services, we’ll provide solid guidance and accurate advice on your parenting consent order and parenting plan options and will always act in the best interests of your children.

Contact Strategic Lawyers for all of your family law needs

If you require assistance related to child custody or parental agreements, contact the expert team of family lawyers at Strategic Lawyers Townsville today. With our passion for achieving life-changing results, you can rely on us to offer a tailored service to get the results you need. We are also conveniently located in Mackay, Charters Towers, Mission Beach, Cairns, Ingham, Mount Isa, Bowen and Ayr.

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FAQs

A parenting plan is a written agreement signed by both parents, outlining all aspects of a child’s care, development and welfare. Being a voluntary agreement, it is not legally binding (unlike a consent order) and therefore allows for more flexibility. A parenting plan can be essential in ensuring that separated parents are in agreement about their child’s care and best interests.

Joint custody, called shared parental responsibility in the Family Law system is an arrangement where separated parents share responsibility for their child’s care. It doesn’t necessarily mean that the child spends equal time with each parent, but it does require significant time spent with each parent to ensure that responsibility is shared.

The court can impose penalties for breaching parenting orders, with the penalty depending on the seriousness of the breach. The court could order that the affected parent be compensated for time missed, impose a fine or even imprisonment. The court will often assess if the parenting order should be changed or varied to prevent future issues.

Unless a court has denied access to a child, it is generally not allowed for one parent to deny the other parent access. If you are a parent who is concerned about the safety and wellbeing of your child and would like to limit the other parent’s access, it is important that you seek legal advice or attend family law mediation. For those who are being denied access without a formal court order, please follow the same advice as above.

The most common child custody arrangement is shared parental responsibility, often referred to as joint custody outside of court. Providing there are no child safety issues, such as abuse or violence, this arrangement is usually considered in the child’s best interest. However, parental responsibility can also be sole parental responsibility (also referred to as a sole custody arrangement outside of court), which still allows for time with the noncustodial parent if there are no child safety issues.

This where the parties sit down, for example around a kitchen table or over coffee, to discuss the issues themselves to try to come to agreement regarding property or children’s matters or both.

It is usually best to have a meeting with us first before attempting this, so you know what your rights are, what you’re trying to achieve, and how best to achieve it.

One of the most important things to realise about this “kitchen table” option is that if you do reach an agreement, often it is not a “binding” agreement. It is usually necessary to then take that kitchen table agreement to your lawyer to have it put into a binding agreement – binding on the parties, binding on the courts, on the police, and so on.

Call (07) 4795 1114 to set up a meeting with our Family Lawyers Townsville team to discuss this option.

This is where the parties, together with their lawyers, push hard to nut out a deal with the assistance of a highly experienced Independent Mediator.

This process can take place prior to initiating Court action, or whilst Court proceedings are in process.

The idea here is to get the parties together for a day, together with their Family Solicitors Townsville, and together with a very experienced accredited Independent Mediator. These often work because everyone is there with a view to negotiating and reaching a deal on the day.

This can often be a good option because it’s less expensive than going to Court, and often on the day a Binding Agreement can be reached in the form of minutes for Consent Orders.

Call (07) 4795 1114 to set up a meeting with our Family Lawyers Townsville team to discuss this option.

This process can take place prior to initiating Court action, or whilst Court proceedings are in process.

The idea here is to get the parties together for a day, together with their Family Solicitors Townsville, and together with a very experienced accredited Independent Mediator. These often work because everyone is there with a view to negotiating and reaching a deal on the day.

This can often be a good option because it’s less expensive than going to Court, and often on the day a Binding Agreement can be reached in the form of minutes for Consent Orders.

Call (07) 4795 1114 to set up a meeting with our Family Lawyers Townsville team to discuss this option.

This is the most popular option. It’s where you engage us as your Family Lawyers Townsville team to negotiate a deal outside of court on your behalf for either children’s or property matters (or both). Whatever the issue – we’ve got it covered.

These negotiations usually occur via written correspondence dealing with the background, the issues in dispute, what the law says about the issues, while making proposals for settling the matter on certain terms that you are agreeable to. These written negotiations are often followed up with verbal negotiations.

We take a “strategic” approach to these negotiations. We believe in keeping your case out of court if possible. Professional negotiations with a strategic focus are often the best way to achieve that.

Consent Orders are often the best agreement for you. This is a binding agreement, negotiated by us on your behalf, without the need to battle it out in Court. Consent Orders are a lot cheaper than going to Court. And Consent Orders are binding on the parties, the police, the Courts, and so on. Please note that Consent Orders can cover either property or children’s matters (or both at the same time). This is the most popular “out of Court” option.

Please note that throughout these negotiations we are at all times acting in your best interests, achieving the outcome you want in the quickest possible timeframe. Our Family Solicitors Townsville team are highly skilled and trained negotiators. Sometimes the best decision you can make is to put it into the hands of the professionals.

Call (07) 4795 1114 to set up a meeting with our Family Lawyers Townsville team to discuss this option.

These negotiations usually occur via written correspondence dealing with the background, the issues in dispute, what the law says about the issues, while making proposals for settling the matter on certain terms that you are agreeable to. These written negotiations are often followed up with verbal negotiations.

We take a “strategic” approach to these negotiations. We believe in keeping your case out of court if possible. Professional negotiations with a strategic focus are often the best way to achieve that.

Consent Orders are often the best agreement for you. This is a binding agreement, negotiated by us on your behalf, without the need to battle it out in Court. Consent Orders are a lot cheaper than going to Court. And Consent Orders are binding on the parties, the police, the Courts, and so on. Please note that Consent Orders can cover either property or children’s matters (or both at the same time). This is the most popular “out of Court” option.

Please note that throughout these negotiations we are at all times acting in your best interests, achieving the outcome you want in the quickest possible timeframe. Our Family Solicitors Townsville team are highly skilled and trained negotiators. Sometimes the best decision you can make is to put it into the hands of the professionals.

Call (07) 4795 1114 to set up a meeting with our Family Lawyers Townsville team to discuss this option.

While Court should be avoided if possible, it is true that some family law cases simply need to go to Court. And that is what the Court is there for: to consider the evidence and to make a decision when the parties can’t resolve it themselves. Please note that you can go to Court for both property and children’s matters, or both at the same time.

If you need a “bulldog in your corner”, then we’re your Family Solicitors Townsville team of litigation experts. As your lawyer and your advocate, we will stand in your shoes and argue your case in your very best interests. If you need to go to the Family Court, then look no further.

Call (07) 4795 1114 to set up a meeting with our Family Lawyers Townsville team to discuss this option.

If you need a “bulldog in your corner”, then we’re your Family Solicitors Townsville team of litigation experts. As your lawyer and your advocate, we will stand in your shoes and argue your case in your very best interests. If you need to go to the Family Court, then look no further.

Call (07) 4795 1114 to set up a meeting with our Family Lawyers Townsville team to discuss this option.

Have a listen!

At Strategic Family Lawyers Townsville we always like to hear feedback from our clients.

We recently interviewed Solange Williams, one of our many extremely happy clients.

Click on the video to check out her interview.

Strategic Lawyers Is The Team You Need

High Performance from start to finish – Delivered. 

A few Reasons Why We are one of

Townsville's Most Effective Law Firms

We believe you are here for a reason. And that reason is to ensure you get the best legal help possible, at the best possible price.

Here at Strategic Lawyers Townsville we’re experts in striking good bargains, but the most important bargain for us, is the one we strike with our clients.

Our offer is simple. We’ll ensure you know what’s going on. We’ll advise you on your best interests and we’ll never give up on your cause.

This means together we’ll reach the best outcome possible. Our people live in this community and we’ve been here a good while.

As such we know how important it is not only that you leave here satisfied but that you’ll recommend us. Call us now on 13 14 LAW and speak to a lawyer about your case.

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170 Five Star Reviews and counting

Avery, 2023

I can’t thank Strategic Lawyers Townsville and the team enough for all of their help throughout the case. Their knowledge and professionalism are outstanding. Despite our delays, they worked extra hours on their own time to get things done. I felt they truly wanted the best outcome for us, which we achieved. Thanks for not just meeting our expectations but exceeding them too!

Avery, 2023

Daniel, 2023

After reading the Strategic lawyers bio, I was confident that I had found the team to represent me.
I found the initial consult just as they had described.
From the very comforting, warm welcome I received in reception, right up until the exchange of money at the end of the session, my enthusiasm only grew stronger with each exchange.
Justin is a very caring and transparent human-being, who took the time to listen to the intricacies of my case and give sound advice on the way through this.
Win or lose, I am confident that the team supporting me will fight for the best possible outcome.

Daniel, 2023

Reese, 2023

I couldn’t have asked for a better result or service from a local lawyer. Strategic Lawyers Townsville was extremely professional and helpful in assisting me with my legal issues. They went above and beyond to represent me and negotiate with all parties to ensure the best result for me and my partner. I would definitely recommend these guys to anyone in the area!

Reese, 2023

Marilyn, 2023

Our first appointment left us in no doubt that we had chosen the right lawyer. Justin listened to our problems, gave us options on what to do next and an estimate of the costs involved. He was courteous, knowledgeable and engaged. The girls on reception were very helpful and cheerful too. A very positive experience for us in difficult times.

Marilyn, 2023

Kerwin, 2023

Outstanding customer service and attention to detail. I could very well strongly recommend the team at Strategic Lawyers Townsville for any legal situation, knowing they have a large support network with top-tier lawyers at their disposal. Without a doubt, I will use them again in the future and will not hesitate to recommend them.

Kerwin, 2023

Amelia, 2023

My experience with Strategic was far better than expected. They were always knowledgeable, credible, professional, empathic, and organized. I am grateful they were on my team in an unfortunate period of my life. I was able to secure an excellent outcome.

Amelia, 2023

Renee, 2023

I’d like to thank Strategic Lawyers Townsville for handling my car accident claim in such a professional manner. The team stayed in touch throughout and provided emotional support when I felt overwhelmed by the process. This was a very stressful time in my life, and they always made sure I understood everything and kept me up to date on the status of my claim. I have no hesitation in recommending them.

Renee, 2023

Lucas, 2023

Strategic Lawyers Townsville handles all of my property-related legal needs. They cover the entire property cycle, no matter how large or small or complex it is. The team provides excellent service and is responsive, diligent, and reasonably priced. When it comes to property and development, the firm is the best in the business… highly recommended!

Lucas, 2023

Jules, 2023

Strategic Lawyers Townsville assisted me in a stressful family law matter. They were very well organized, everything went smoothly and it came at a reasonable cost. I was happy with the service and will definitely use them again

Jules, 2023

Zoey, 2023

Strategic Lawyers was a pleasure to work with! Service that is both quick and reasonably priced. We needed a quick turnaround on some documents, and they were responsive in communication and follow-up. Thank you team 🙂

Zoey, 2023

Oakley, 2023

If you are looking for a criminal justice lawyer, I would strongly recommend Strategic Lawyers in Townsville. They managed to outperform my expectations by producing a better result than I could have imagined, all while remaining friendly, kind, respectful, and professional. Thank you very much.

Oakley, 2023

Abigail, 2023

I hired the Strategic Lawyers Townsville team to represent me in court on a traffic matter I was disputing. The Solicitor’s professionalism was second to none. He acquired the best possible outcome in court. Made all the time and effort worth it.

Abigail, 2023

Lisa, 2023

I only use Strategic Lawyers Townsville for all of my commercial leases and property portfolio needs. By far the most professional and conscientious law firm I’ve ever worked with. Highly recommended for any commercial law needs.

Lisa, 2023

Ryan, 2023

Had my first interaction with Justin Ireland in regards to my legal matter. There was no showboating about their previous cases or how many they have won which was impressive, in stead he announced his position and who was working with him and proceeded to lay down how my matter would be handled. People are often turned off by costs but when put into prospective the time and people involved, their prices are quite competitive. I have confidence I have made the the right decision by choosing Strategic Lawyers

Ryan, 2023

Neo, 2023

The firm was able to provide me with the detailed advice that I needed in relation to a very unusual issue involving the plan of subdivision on a small owners corporation. Strategic Lawyers is highly recommended! 5 Stars

Neo, 2023

Giana, 2023

Strategic Lawyers Townsville is highly recommended for all of your legal needs. Look no further for the best in the industry. They were the best legal counsel for my partner’s ongoing court case. They came along and did what they do best, and we won. Thanks for everything you’ve done!

Giana, 2023

Cahya, 2023

We were so satisfied with Strategic Lawyers that we used them again for a title issue on our property as well as conveyancing work when the property was sold. Support this local law firm, they know their stuff!

Cahya, 2023

Blake, 2023

I’ve been dealing with Strategic Lawyers Townsville, and so far I’m very pleased with the approach, clarity, and speed with which they handle things. I had been looking for a family and business lawyer in the area for quite some time, and I believe I have finally found what I was looking for!

Blake, 2023

Val Waszkiewicz, 2018

I think the fix fee is brilliant. No nasty surprises at payment time. The staff are friendly and very helpful and speak in a language that you can understand clearly. I would recommend their services to anyone

Val Waszkiewicz, 2018

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