After parents have separated, it is not uncommon for many issues in relation to their children to come into dispute. These issues may have previously been agreed upon prior to separation. One issue that we see often in family law is the choice of school which your child will attend. When this issue comes into dispute it can cause a significant deterioration in the relationship between the parents, as well as anxiety and stress for both the parents and child.
Which school a child will attend is a decision that both parents need to make jointly, unless one parent has sole parental responsibility for the child.
With the new year fast approaching, here are some tips on steps to take to resolve your dispute about schooling prior to the commencement of the first term:
- Raise the issue of schooling early and well before the commencement of the school term. Communicate with the other parent about which school you would like your child to attend and the reasons why.
- If the other parent does not agree with the school you have proposed and they propose an alternative school, consider whether or not that school would be in the best interests of your child. At the very least you should make your own enquiries and research about the school before coming to any conclusion.
- If you still have not reached an agreement invite the other parent to attend family dispute resolution, also known as mediation, to further discuss the issue of schooling. You should prepare for the mediation by researching all schools that have been suggested or which your child could potentially attend and the reasons why you propose your child attends or does not attend those schools
If an agreement can’t be reached at mediation, you will be issued with what is known as a section 60I certificate which will enable you to commence court proceedings to have a court decide which school your child will attend. This should be a last resort. Prior to commencing proceedings, you should obtain expert legal advice from an experienced family lawyer about what considerations the court will take into account. This may also assist you in your negotiations.
If you require assistance with your family law parenting matter, contact our team of expert Cairns family lawyers today on (07) 4036 9700 or enquiries@millerharris.com.au.