Overview

This bill aims to introduce "Shared Parenting Orders" into law, creating a legal presumption that such orders are in a child's best interests unless specific exceptions apply. The bill prioritizes both parents' full involvement in a child's upbringing, while maintaining the paramountcy of the child's welfare.

Description

The Shared Parenting Orders Bill amends the Children Act 1989. It introduces a new type of court order, a "shared parenting order," defining it as an order ensuring both parents have significant involvement in a child's upbringing, including major long-term decisions (education, religion, health, significant living arrangement changes). The bill establishes a legal presumption that shared parenting is in the child's best interests, unless factors like abuse or neglect are present. The court must consider the practicality of the order, including parental distance and capacity to facilitate the arrangement. If a shared parenting order is not deemed suitable, the court must still strive for as much time as reasonably possible with both parents, ideally at least 25% of the year for each parent. The bill also clarifies the definition of "major long-term issues" related to a child’s upbringing.

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State under the Act, and any increase in sums payable under other Acts due to this Act, will be paid from public funds. No specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

• Children: The bill directly affects children involved in family separation or divorce, potentially impacting their time spent with each parent.
• Parents: Separated or divorced parents will be significantly impacted, potentially altering custody arrangements and responsibilities.
• Judges and Courts: The bill changes court procedures and adds a legal presumption that will influence judicial decisions.
• Social Workers and other Child Welfare Professionals: These professionals will need to adapt their practices to the changes introduced by the bill.

Powered by nyModel