Child Custody & Parenting Arrangements Sydney - Trusted Advice
Guiding Sydney parents through parenting arrangements, living arrangements and time with their children - with clear advice and fixed-fee pricing.
- Representing you and your interests, always
- Experienced and approachable
- Quality, responsive advice
- Compassionate, careful listening
Client Reviews
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"As a first time buyer, I needed careful guidance in my journey to becoming a home owner, I found that in Harriss Jones Lawyers. The efficiency, attention to detail and clear communication from Kathryn and the team meant that I could relax every step of the way until I signed on the dotted line."
Margi de Ferranti
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"Cannot thank Kathryn and Annette enough for the help they provided at a tough time. Not only legally but - especially - for liaising with the aged care facility where a loved one is staying. They saved us a significant amount of money and stress. Thank you all so much."
K Smith
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"The care and support the team at Harriss Jones gave was outstanding. They genuinely care about their customers and I will be using them again."
Kate Redpath
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"As a first time buyer, I needed careful guidance in my journey to becoming a home owner, I found that in Harriss Jones Lawyers. The efficiency, attention to detail and clear communication from Kathryn and the team meant that I could relax every step of the way until I signed on the dotted line."
Margi de Ferranti
-
"Cannot thank Kathryn and Annette enough for the help they provided at a tough time. Not only legally but - especially - for liaising with the aged care facility where a loved one is staying. They saved us a significant amount of money and stress. Thank you all so much."
K Smith
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"The care and support the team at Harriss Jones gave was outstanding. They genuinely care about their customers and I will be using them again."
Kate Redpath
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Looking for parenting arrangement advice?
When parents separate, it can be difficult and emotional to decide on arrangements for their children. Parenting orders are legally binding court orders that set out important decisions about a child's care and how their day-to-day life is managed.
Parenting orders can cover where the child lives, how much time the child spends with each parent or significant people, parental responsibility and decision-making, communication arrangements, schooling and travel, and other aspects of the child's care and welfare.
Areas we can help with
Parenting arrangements and plans
Consent Orders
Family Dispute Resolution requirements
Applying for, varying or enforcing parenting orders
Urgent applications
Understanding parenting arrangements
Parenting arrangements decide how your children's care and day-to-day life are organised after separation, and the most important consideration is always the best interests of the child. Parenting disputes can be emotionally and legally complex, so early legal advice can help you understand your rights, explore your options and make decisions that support your child's wellbeing while reducing uncertainty for your family.
For tailored advice after separation, our experienced family lawyers are here to help.
Tailored advice for your situation
Every family is different, so we shape our advice based on your personal circumstances.
Agree on the arrangements? If both parents agree, you can apply for Consent Orders, making the agreement enforceable without a court hearing.
Can't agree? You may need to ask the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia to decide.
Required to attend mediation? Most parents must attend Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) before going to court. Afterwards, a section 60I Certificate is usually needed to start proceedings. Exceptions include family violence, child abuse or urgent circumstances.
Urgent situation? The Court can hear matters urgently if a child is at risk, or in situations like abduction, relocation or recovery.
What are the potential risks?
Parenting orders are legally binding, so the arrangements you agree or are ordered to follow will shape your child's day-to-day life. Most parents must attempt Family Dispute Resolution before court, and starting proceedings without the right certificate can hold up your matter. Without advice, you may also agree to arrangements that don't reflect your child's best interests or are not realistic for your family.
Speak to Sydney's parenting arrangement lawyers
If you would like advice about parenting arrangements, divorce or property settlement, contact Harriss Jones Lawyers to arrange your free initial consultation. We are committed to providing practical legal advice and personalised support to help you move forward with confidence.
The information on this page is general in nature and does not take into account your individual circumstances.
Call us today on 02 9575 7541 or complete the enquiry form below.
Why choose Harriss Jones Lawyers
Our experienced, approachable team listens first, gives you clear, responsive advice, and acts for you and your interests at every step.
From your first conversation, we take the time to understand your situation, plan ahead and deal with everyone involved on your behalf - so your matter is shaped around you, and the right questions are asked before they become problems.
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1. Get in touch
Contact us early so we can understand your situation and goals.
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2. Review & advise
We assess the details and explain your options in plain English.
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3. Plan your next steps
We confirm the approach, timeline and fixed fee upfront.
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4. We get it done
We manage the work and keep you updated through to completion.
Meet Our Team
Two Principal Solicitors and two licensed conveyancers, focused on getting your settlement right.
Kathryn Harriss
Solicitor
Along with Melanie, we commenced our practice with the goal to provide quality legal advice and assist people to navigate through the law.
Melanie Jones
Solicitor
Harriss Jones Lawyers has been a fulfilling and exciting adventure, and it is great to see our team develop and grow.
Nicole Aghabi
Solicitor
I've recently joined Harriss Jones Lawyers that brought our practices together. We're now able to provide support focused on Surrogacy.
Sarah Murray
Licensed Conveyancer
Working at Harriss Jones Lawyers has given me a great start to my legal career and has allowed me to learn so many important skills.
Annette Suann
Licensed Conveyancer
With over 30 years experience in conveyancing, it has been great to be part of a female team where we share a common passion.
Khajinder Kaur
Senior Associate Solicitor
As a family lawyer and Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, I help clients through separation, parenting, property and family violence matters. I focus on resolving disputes through negotiation wherever possible, so families can avoid the stress and cost of court.
Amelie Curley
Legal Clerk
I'm completing a double degree in Laws and Medical Science at UTS while gaining hands-on experience at Harriss Jones Lawyers. I mostly assist with Wills and estate planning matters, and I'm enjoying learning something new every day.
Nicole Thorne
Receptionist / Office Administration
With over 30 years' experience, I'm the first smiling face you'll meet when you walk into our office. I look after the firm's correspondence, safe custody records and staff diaries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often about parenting arrangements.
How are parenting arrangements decided?
The most important consideration is always the best interests of the child. Parenting arrangements can cover where a child lives, the time they spend with each parent, decision-making responsibilities, schooling, travel and other aspects of their care. We understand these decisions can feel deeply personal, and we work with you to find practical arrangements that support your child's wellbeing and your family's circumstances.
Can I get 50/50 custody?
Australian family law no longer uses the term "custody". Equal time is not automatic, and the Court will focus on what arrangement is in the child's best interests. We can help you understand what may be realistic and appropriate for your family, while keeping your child's needs at the centre of the discussion.
Do I have to attend mediation before going to Court?
In most parenting matters, parents are required to attempt Family Dispute Resolution before commencing court proceedings unless an exemption applies, such as family violence, child abuse or urgency. We can explain whether this step applies to you and help you prepare for the process in a way that feels supported and manageable.
Can grandparents apply for parenting orders?
Yes. Grandparents and other people who are concerned with the care, welfare and development of a child may be able to apply for parenting orders where appropriate. These matters can be sensitive, and we can help you understand your options while keeping the child's best interests at the forefront.
What is your pricing?
At Harriss Jones Lawyers, after meeting with you to find out what you need, we will provide you with clear information on our professional fees that is specific to your matter. For more information get in touch with our team.
Our Legal Insights
Legal advice you can count on
Whatever brings you here - property, family, wills and estates, or business - call us, book a call directly, or complete the form and we'll be in touch.
- 02 9575 7541
- Contact Us
- 572 Box Road, Jannali, NSW 2226
- Mon–Fri, 9:00am – 5:00pm
Helping you through the key milestones of life - from property and family law to wills, estates and business.
Business Details
Harriss Jones Lawyers Pty. Ltd.
ABN: 84 165 555 233
Principals: Kathryn Harriss and Melanie Jones
Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
© 2026 All rights reserved
Contact us today
- Phone: 02 9575 7541
- Address: 572 Box Road, Jannali, NSW 2226
- PO Box: PO Box 249, Oyster Bay, NSW 2225
