Best interests of the child
A child-focused legal standard requiring decisions about children to prioritise the child's welfare, safety, development, and circumstances.
Definition
Best interests of the child can affect care, contact, guardianship, relocation, parenting plans, maintenance, domestic violence, adoption, and Children's Court matters. The practical review usually looks at the child's age, safety, health, schooling, relationships, stability, views where appropriate, and the evidence before the court or Family Advocate.
Key takeaways
A child-focused legal standard requiring decisions about children to prioritise the child's welfare, safety, development, and circumstances.
Family Law
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Related legal problems
This glossary provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
Common situations
Parenting dispute
Care and contact
Family Advocate process
Related resources
Resources and guides
Divorce Checklist
Preparation checklist for divorce process, settlement, parenting, and maintenance issues.
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Child Maintenance Court Document Pack: prepare Child birth certificate, Parent ID documents, Income proof and identify missing records before legal advice.
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Prepare parenting-plan questions by organising child routines, care and contact arrangements, school and medical decisions, holidays, communication rules, safety concerns, documents, and lawyer questions.
Family LawFAQs
Best interests of the child FAQs
What does Best interests of the child mean?
A child-focused legal standard requiring decisions about children to prioritise the child's welfare, safety, development, and circumstances.
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