Family Law
Children
The breakdown of a marriage can be a stressful and emotional time for all parties, especially if there are children involved. If the parents cannot come to an agreement with regard to, for example, the living arrangements (custody), contact with each parent and which parent should make particular decisions concerning the child (and any other child related issues) the Courts will be governed by the Family Law Act to determine these issues for the parties. Rockliffs can assist you with advice, negotiate on your behalf with your former spouse/partner to endeavour to reach an agreement on such issues or if no agreement can be reached, to apply to the Court and represent you to seek orders relating to these important issues to you and your family.
Child Support payments are usually governed by the Child Support Agency, a regulatory body which follows statute to determine amounts payable by parents towards the welfare of their children. Some couples may agree between themselves as to how much should be paid in the way of Child Support, and thus may make their own Child Support Agreement. There are some cases which may require a party to make an application to the Court to determine a fair and just Child Support payment amount, although there are very limited circumstances in which this avenue is available.
