Mediation, Custody and Shared Parenting

[Kittyberry]

Aussies

If a Mum in a separating couple is not co-operating in a request for access to a 12 month old (unmarried couple with fractured relationship) by the natural Dad, does it cost a heap to go to court?

Is there any support for Dads in this situation, given that there is opposition from the Mum to sharing care or at least giving access to the child-largely because of spite and possessiveness.

Difficult situation and I am in UK supporting from afar.

The Dad works - but has 2 days off a week - pays child support and frequently in excess of the basic sum required, and is generally supportive and desperate to be a Dad.

Queensland/NSW area.

Any advice really welcome, and thanks

No idea of the specifics of this scenario, however, it’s quite common to represent yourself in the Family Court (which is federal, not state). It’s just a matter of preparing, having evidence and being able to present your situation.

He should have print outs of any communication to support his claims. For this reason, it’s better to communicate by text or email, so it’s in writing. Otherwise, he should keep a diary of spoken communication.

You can’t go to court for parenting matters in NSW without attempting mediation first or getting a S60i certificate from a registered FDRP saying mediation would be unsuitable or (which may be the case here) the other party refuses to attend mediation. In theory refusing can attract penalties, in reality that rarely happens. Court takes a LONG time. The person you are supporting needs to contact his local Family Relationship Centre if he wants a free service, if he can afford to pay there are many choices. Relationships Australia is a good starting point. If there is any question of the baby being taken out of Australia he needs to get baby on the airport watch list. I am heading overseas tomorrow so won’t be back to this thread, good luck.