It’s not known when the current Coronavirus restrictions in place will be relaxed but it seems that these restrictions, necessary to protect our community will be in place for quite some time.

The COVID-19 restrictions are changing our work habits as well as our social and family lives, and it can be particularly hard to navigate changes for children whose parents are no longer in a relationship. The Family Court system focuses on best interests of the children are the paramount consideration. The best arrangements for children are generally those that:

• encourage and promote the children to have a meaningful relationship with both their parents and other family members;

• where both parents continue to share responsibility for their children; and

• the ensure children live in a safe environment and are not exposed to violence or abuse.

The Family Court has urged parents to take a sensible and practical approach to parenting arrangements during COVID-19. This means that where you have existing parenting orders, you should generally do your best to comply with them. If you do not have parenting orders in place, you may want to discuss with your ex-partner putting in place a plan about how you will share the children during this time. We have put together some tips to help you get through this difficult time:

1. Prioritise co-operation and the best interests of the children

   Parents should look to work together, attempting where it is practical and safe to adhere to arrangements that they have in place, whether formal or informal.  But with so much changing it may be the case this is simply not possible. Seek assistance either from an expert family lawyer about whether the conditions have changed, and orders need to be reconsidered.

2. Remember to place safety first

   Changes to the way you communicate with children may help, such as having Facetime sessions or Zoom calls, if you are unable to safely visit them. This also applies to time with grandparents – keeping the whole family safe should be a priority. You may also need to re-think drop off locations, if you previously exchanged the children at public venues. If your children have come into contact with someone with the virus or starts to exhibit symptoms, you should ensure they self-isolate and contact your health professional. After consulting with a health professional you should get in touch with an expert family lawyer to discuss how this may impact your parenting arrangements.

3.  Keep routine and stay calm

   Most importantly, try to stay calm - remember that this is a stressful time for all involved. A good way to do this is to focus on maintaining routine as much as possible. We appreciate that it’s tough telling the kids they can’t play at the park or on equipment. There are a number of online groups that are offering activities via online learning that could help with ideas to keep the kids occupied. You should also like our Facebook page as we post links to activities and ideas from time to time to keep the kids busy during COVID-19.

4. Seek Help

   If you are having difficulty reaching an agreement with your former partner then seek advice from specialist family lawyers like Lagom Family Law. You may be finding it difficult to stick to the current Orders or agreement that you have in place. If this is the case, then we can assist you to put in place new Interim Orders or a temporary arrangement during this difficult time.

We offer a complimentary 20 minute discovery call to understand your circumstances. Follow the link below to make an appointment to speak to us!

Lagom is Swedish and means not too little, not too much, just right. This is our philosophy of practice as we aim to provide tailored advice specific for your individual needs - that’s just right for you!

Lagom Family Law is a boutique legal practice lead by Principal Lichee Hogland who strives to achieve the best possible outcome for her clients whilst being approachable and respectful.