When a relationship ends, decisions about where your children will live, how much time they spend with each parent, and how big decisions are made become the most important — and often the most painful — questions you face. The fear of losing time with your children, or of them being caught between two parents in conflict, is real. So is the fear of what happens if you can't agree.
Freemont Family Lawyers guides Melbourne parents through parenting and children's matters with both legal precision and genuine human care. Our goal is always workable, child-focused arrangements that protect your relationship with your children — through negotiation and mediation wherever possible, and firm court advocacy when needed.
We listen carefully to your account of your children's lives — their relationships, their needs, and the risks you are concerned about. Nothing is minimised or assumed.
We explain the 'best interests of the child' framework that Australian courts apply, what it means for your specific circumstances, and what realistic outcomes look like — honestly and in plain English.
We pursue outcomes that protect your children and preserve your relationship with them — through mediation, consent orders, or strong advocacy in the Federal Circuit and Family Court.
Tell us about your children and your situation. We explain your options confidentially and clearly.
We advise whether a negotiated plan, FDR or court orders best suit your circumstances — and prepare you thoroughly.
We represent you in family dispute resolution or court proceedings — prepared, on time, and focused on your children.
Clear, workable orders so your children can thrive and you can move forward with confidence.
Every arrangement we recommend is genuinely guided by what serves your children — not just what's convenient or what your ex demands.
When a child's safety is at risk or parenting orders are being breached, we act quickly and decisively.
High-conflict parenting is where we do our best work — de-escalating where possible, advocating strongly when needed.
We know how the Melbourne family law list operates, what courts expect, and how to present your case effectively.
Under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth), courts must determine what is in the best interests of the child. Key factors include the benefit of having a meaningful relationship with both parents, the need to protect the child from harm or family violence, the child's own views (with weight given according to age and maturity), and the child's developmental, emotional and cultural needs. This is general information only.
If there are no court orders in place, seek legal advice urgently. If existing orders are being breached, the court takes contravention seriously and remedies are available — including make-up time and penalties. We can advise on urgent steps to re-establish contact. This is general information only.
Generally yes — you must attempt FDR and obtain a Section 60I certificate before filing for parenting orders. Exceptions apply where there is family violence, urgency or abuse concerns. This is general information only.
There is no fixed age. Courts give increasing weight to children's views as they mature, but the court ultimately decides based on the child's best interests — it is not a child's election. Older teenagers' views can carry significant weight. This is general information only.
Relocation with children — whether interstate or overseas — without consent or a court order can be a serious breach of parenting arrangements. You can apply urgently to court to prevent relocation, or to resolve the issue. If no orders are in place, seek advice immediately. This is general information only.
A parenting plan is a written agreement that is not enforceable by a court. Parenting orders are made by the Federal Circuit and Family Court and are legally binding — breaching them is a serious matter with real legal consequences. We advise on which approach is right for your situation and risk level. This is general information only.
The information on this page is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Your situation is unique — please contact us for advice specific to your circumstances.
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