At Alpine Legal, we understand that few legal matters are as sensitive and emotionally charged as those involving children. If you’re navigating a separation or divorce and need guidance on child custody or parenting arrangements, we are here to help with clear advice and compassionate support.

Our priority is helping you achieve outcomes that serve your child’s best interests while preserving your rights as a parent.

Understanding Child Custody in Australia

In Australia, the term "child custody" is no longer used in legislation. Instead, the law refers to parental responsibility and parenting arrangements.

Parental responsibility relates to decision-making authority for major aspects of a child’s life—such as education, health care, and religion. Parenting arrangements cover the practical day-to-day care of a child, including who the child lives with and how much time they spend with each parent.

The Family Law Act assumes that both parents have equal shared parental responsibility unless it is not in the child’s best interests (such as in cases involving family violence or risk of harm).

How We Can Help

We assist clients with all aspects of parenting matters, including:

• Negotiating parenting arrangements after separation or divorce

• Preparing parenting plans or consent orders

• Representing parents in the Federal Circuit and Family Court

• Urgent applications involving relocation or recovery of children

• Complex cases involving family violence, cultural considerations, or overseas travel

• Enforcement of existing parenting orders

Our approach is calm, child-focused, and solution-oriented. We aim to reduce conflict wherever possible and support you in making long-term, practical decisions.

Child Custody and Cultural Sensitivity

We understand that parenting matters may involve deeply personal and cultural values. At Alpine Legal, we provide legal services in both English and Persian (Farsi), and we are experienced in helping members of the Iranian-Australian community navigate issues such as overseas parenting disputes, religious upbringing, and extended family involvement.

Helping Clients Across Camberwell, Balwyn, Doncaster, Kew, and More

• Alpine Legal is based in Camberwell, and we proudly assist clients in surrounding suburbs, including Balwyn, Doncaster, Kew, Mont Albert, Templestowe, and Surrey Hills. Whether you need legal support for family law, property settlements, wills and estates, or more, our compassionate team is here to help guide you through every step.