Australian Family Law:

5 Key Steps to Safeguard Your Child from a Negligent Parent post Separation

Navigating the complexities of Australian family law can be challenging when seeking to protect your child from a negligent parent following a separation. Here are five essential steps to help ensure your child's safety:

  1. Seek Legal Advice:

    Consult with a family lawyer, such as Sherri Gullickson to understand your rights and legal options. Our Solicitor, Sherri Gullickson can provide guidance on obtaining parenting orders or seeking out legal avenues to restrict the negligent parent's access to the child.

  2. Document Concerns:

    Keep detailed records of any concerning behavior or incidents involving the negligent parent. This documentation can include relevant text messages, emails, social media posts, and any other forms of communication that may demonstrate the parent's negligence. Ensure you speak with Sherri Gullickson first before you do anything with this evidence.

  3. Establish Clear Boundaries:

    Clearly outline boundaries with the negligent parent regarding communication and visitation. Everyone’s idea of what constitutes a ‘negligent parent’ differs widely. The courts paramount concern is to ensure that the child maintains a meaningful connection with a parent, so long as it is safe to do so. To protect your and the child’s rights ensure you speak with Sherri Gullickson before you decide to stop communication or visitation or there may be legal implication on your decision. Therefore it is important that you consider supervised visits or stipulations in parenting orders to ensure the child's safety during interactions with the negligent parent.

  4. Engage with Support Services:

    Access support services such as family counselors, mediators, or child psychologists to help navigate co-parenting challenges and address any issues related to the child's safety and well-being.

  5. Prioritize the Child's Best Interests:

    Above all else, make decisions that prioritize the child's best interests. Focus on creating a safe, stable, and nurturing environment for your child, even in the face of difficulties with a negligent parent.

By following these five steps and working within the framework of Australian family law, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your child from a negligent parent and promote their overall well-being post-separation.

Sherri Gullickson has worked with Accredited Family Law Specialists, and specialized family law firms working on high value property matters, complex parenting and superannuation splits. Call today and Sherri can provide personalized advice based on your situation and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.

Get in contact with our office today (07) 3397 99 22 or sent us an email to arrange a free 30 min consult with Sherri today

Please note that this information is provided as general guidance and should not be construed as legal advice. It's recommended to consult with Sherri Gullickson for advice specific to your situation.