The unfortunate, unintended consequence is that children often witness and experience the disharmony between their parents first-hand during this challenging time. 

This can profoundly impact them, even if parents believe they are hiding the conflict from them.

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Misunderstandings can naturally arise — especially when emotions are high or communication styles differ — and can unintentionally escalate tensions. Often, it’s not a lack of care or effort, but the emotional strain of the situation that makes calm, constructive communication more difficult.

Effective communication is essential to successful co-parenting.

Finding a safe non-judgmental way of communicating is often a challenge. 

At Alexander Christian, we take a child-focused and collaborative approach. 

We’ll work with you to:

• Understand your individual circumstances

• Explore strategies to reduce conflict and de-escalate difficult situations

• Encourage transparency and improve communication

• Support you in building a cooperative co-parenting relationship

• Keep your child’s needs and emotional stability at the centre of every step

Let’s help you move forward with clarity, compassion, and a shared focus on your child’s best interests.

Going to court should be a last resort. The adversarial nature of legal proceedings can often heighten tensions and lead parties to become entrenched in their positions — making collaboration more difficult.

Where possible, resolving matters outside of court can lead to more flexible, child-focused, and mutually acceptable outcomes.

Some of the most effective non-court resolution methods include:

• Solicitor-led negotiation

• Round table meetings, supported by each party’s legal representatives or barristers

• Mediation, guided by a neutral third party

• Collaborative law, where both parties and their solicitors commit to resolving issues without litigation

• Arbitration, where a neutral arbitrator makes a binding decision

Before applying to court, you’ll usually be required to confirm whether you’ve attempted non-court dispute resolution. Even after proceedings have started, judges will often encourage the parties to consider resolving matters out of court.

We can help you explore these options and find the right approach for your situation — one that protects relationships and prioritises the best interests of your children.

If court proceedings are underway — or you are considering starting them — we can support you at every stage of the process.

We assist with applications relating to:

• Where the children will live

• How much time they spend with each parent

• Specific issues (such as schooling)

• Prohibited steps (to prevent a particular action being taken)

You can expect several stages and interim hearings before the final hearing which can be listed for 1 or more days.

If you’d like to explore your options or better understand how the process works, please get in touch for a confidential conversation.

We understand that facing a relationship breakdown — while trying to agree on new arrangements for your children — can be difficult.

But you don’t have to navigate it alone.