Parenting Orders

Both the applicant and respondent can apply for a Parenting Order under the Care of Children Act 2004. This Order determines day-to-day care (custody) and contact (access) arrangements for children.

Before granting contact, the Judge must be satisfied that the children will be safe with the respondent. In some cases, contact may only be permitted under supervision by another adult, with the Parenting Order specifying the conditions and schedule.

Urgent interim Parenting Orders are often requested alongside Protection Orders. However, if a Protection Order is issued by the Criminal Court, a separate Parenting Order application must be made through the Family Court.