Do we have to go to mediation? What if we can just agree about arrangements for our children?

• Mediation is only required if you cannot agree on arrangements for the children.
• You should write down, date and sign the terms that you have agree on. These terms are often referred to as a ‘parenting plan’. A parenting plan cannot be enforced by the court but may be taken into account if issues are later brought before the court.
• A parenting plan details:
  • which parent the children live with;
  • what time the children spend with the other parent; and
  • other matters such as arrangements for sharing special occasions and changeover when the children move from one parent to the other.
• You may apply to the court for the arrangements you have agreed on to be made orders by consent without either party needing to attend court. You will have a better chance of obtaining your orders quickly and without problems if you first consult a lawyer in relation to the content of your application.
• Our Phone a Lawyer service may be able to put you in touch with an experienced family lawyer for a preliminary consultation.