Clients often ask us what the most likely result will be as they enter into post separation parenting negotiations and/or Court action.
It is our experience, and reflected industry wide, that about two-thirds of cases dealing with the care of children aged 14 years and under, that the children will live primarily with the mother and spend regular and significant time-with the father.
In about 20% of cases there will be an equal time arrangement and in the remainder of cases the child will live with the father or a close relative such as a grandparent or uncle/aunt.
Only about 2% of all matters relating to the care of children are decided after a final trial/hearing in the Federal Circuit Court or Family Court of Australia. The vast majority of matters settle by way of direct negotiations or mediation and of the approximately 10% that progress into Court action, a great majority of those settle during the preliminary stages and do not advance to final hearing.
Every family circumstance is unique and if this article has raised any questions for you, please make an appointment with Ben Hoffman or Mr Joshua Whale to discuss your options, call on
02 6542 5566.
ABN: 41 847 630 789