It's important to not confuse parent responsibility with how much time each child is spending with the parent, because parent responsibility deals with the major long-term decisions of the child.

So what is "equal shared parental responsibility"? Essentially, what it means is that both parents have to make joint decisions about the major long-term decisions about the child, providing that both parents are capable in the eyes of law.

The major long-term decision could be things like:

- Education

- Housing/where the child lives

- Religion of the child

- Any major health decisions

All of these things are what the court considers to be major long-term decisions. So, if there is an order stating equal and shared parent responsibility, then both parents have to agree on each of these things before a final decision is made.

Fortunately, there are only 2 parents per child. What that means is... if the parents aren't able to agree on one of those things, there will be an umpire or mediator who can help make a decision as to what is in the best interests of the child.

This is when parents have to seek the advice of the judge, go to court, and then a decision will be made by the judge as to what is in the best interest of the child. Often, parents will seek advice from a family lawyer, such as the best family lawyers in Sydney, Justice Family Lawyers. We can advise you on what the court would consider reasonable if the matter does go to court. This is useful in making decisions as to whether or not it would be something that you'd want to do, in the event that you cannot make a decision.

If you have any other questions about equal or shared parental responsibility, please don't hesitate to get in touch. It is a very technical subject, and you do need specific advice about it.

Read more about it here: Equal Shared Parental Responsibility | The Complete Guide (justicefamilylawyers.com.au)

Speak to one of our family-friendly lawyers today: https://justicefamilylawyers.com.au/

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