Child Safety And Parenting

Summary

In Queensland, Australia, if a child feels unsafe due to verbal abuse, emotional neglect, or exposure to domestic violence, it may be grounds to modify parenting arrangements. A Parenting Plan is not legally enforceable, but the childs safety is paramount. Police advice, while not legally binding, can be influential in court. When responding to a lawyers letter, acknowledge receipt, express concerns, reference evidence, and request an extension for further response while seeking legal advice. Consider reaching out to Legal Aid Queensland for guidance.

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My 10 year old daughter Blue has been having a tough time and is refusing to go to her dad’s house as she feels unsafe when she is with him. This is because he verbally abuses her, emotionally neglects her, and exposes her to acts of domestic violence. She has spoken to school teachers, councillors and even the police about this matter. The advise given was that if she felt unsafe because of all this, she did not have to be forced to see him. He has retaliated by having a lawyer contact me and threatening to take this to court if I don’t abide by the Parenting Plan (not enforceable). We live in Queensland, Australia.
Hi ****, I'm really sorry to hear about Blue's situation. Since you live in Queensland, here's some general legal information that might help:
- Child Safety: The safety and well-being of the child are paramount. If there's evidence of abuse or neglect, it might be grounds to modify the parenting arrangements.
- Parenting Plan: While not legally enforceable, it can be considered by the court. You may need to apply for a Parenting Order.
- Legal Support: Consider reaching out to Legal Aid Queensland for guidance and support.
Would you like information on how to apply for a Parenting Order or need contacts for local legal aid services?
No, but I do need help with replying to a letter from his lawyer
Hi ****, I understand the need to respond appropriately to the letter from his lawyer. Here are some tips on what to include in your response:
- Acknowledge Receipt: Confirm that you have received the letter.
- Express Your Concerns: Clearly state your concerns about Blue's safety and well-being.
- Reference Evidence: Mention that Blue has spoken to teachers, counselors, and the police, who advised that she shouldn't be forced to see her father if she feels unsafe.
- Parenting Plan: Highlight that the current Parenting Plan is not enforceable and that you are prioritizing Blue's safety.
- Seek Legal Advice: Indicate that you are seeking further legal advice on the matter.
Would you like a draft response to get you started?
Yes please
Case Rating: *
Sure, ****. Here’s a draft response to the letter from his lawyer:
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[Your Address]
[City, State, Postcode]
[Date]
[Lawyer's Name]
[Law Firm's Name]
[Law Firm's Address]
[City, State, Postcode]
Dear [Lawyer's Name],
RE: Parenting Plan and Concerns for Blue’s Safety
I am writing to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated [Date of the Lawyer's Letter].
I am deeply concerned about the well-being and safety of my daughter, Blue, during her visits with her father. Blue has expressed feeling unsafe due to verbal abuse, emotional neglect, and exposure to acts of domestic violence while in his care. She has discussed these matters with her school teachers, counselors, and the police, all of whom have advised that she should not be forced to see her father if she feels unsafe.
While I understand the Parenting Plan is in place, it is important to note that it is not legally enforceable. My primary concern is Blue’s safety and well-being, which is why I am following the guidance provided by professionals who are aware of the situation.
I am currently seeking further legal advice on this matter to ensure that Blue’s best interests are protected. In the meantime, I am committed to ensuring her safety and emotional well-being.
Thank you for your understanding.
Yours sincerely,
**** [Last Name]
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Feel free to adjust any details as needed.
Can you also adjust in the letter that I need an extension for further response as I need legal advise
Case Rating: *
Sure, ****! Here's an updated draft of your response:
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[Your Address]
[City, State, Postcode]
[Date]
[Lawyer's Name]
[Law Firm's Name]
[Law Firm's Address]
[City, State, Postcode]
Dear [Lawyer's Name],
RE: Parenting Plan and Concerns for Blue’s Safety
I am writing to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated [Date of the Lawyer's Letter].
I am deeply concerned about the well-being and safety of my daughter, Blue, during her visits with her father. Blue has expressed feeling unsafe due to verbal abuse, emotional neglect, and exposure to acts of domestic violence while in his care. She has discussed these matters with her school teachers, counselors, and the police, all of whom have advised that she should not be forced to see her father if she feels unsafe.
While I understand the Parenting Plan is in place, it is important to note that it is not legally enforceable. My primary concern is Blue’s safety and well-being, which is why I am following the guidance provided by professionals who are aware of the situation.
I am currently seeking further legal advice on this matter to ensure that Blue’s best interests are protected. Therefore, I kindly request an extension for further response while I obtain the necessary legal advice.
Thank you for your understanding.
Yours sincerely,
**** [Last Name]
---
Feel free to adjust any details as needed.
Can police advice in Australia be taken into consideration
Case Rating: *
Yes, police advice can be taken into consideration in Australia, especially when it concerns a child's safety and well-being. While police advice is not legally binding, it can be influential in court proceedings or discussions regarding parenting arrangements.
Do you have any other questions or need further assistance?
How can I respond to a letter saying that I will get back to them with further response within 14 days as I am seeking legal advice
Case Rating: *
Sure, ****! Here's a revised draft response for you:
---
[Your Address]
[City, State, Postcode]
[Date]
[Lawyer's Name]
[Law Firm's Name]
[Law Firm's Address]
[City, State, Postcode]
Dear [Lawyer's Name],
RE: Parenting Plan and Concerns for Blue’s Safety
I am writing to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated [Date of the Lawyer's Letter].
I am deeply concerned about the well-being and safety of my daughter, Blue, during her visits with her father. Blue has expressed feeling unsafe due to verbal abuse, emotional neglect, and exposure to acts of domestic violence while in his care. She has discussed these matters with her school teachers, counselors, and the police, all of whom have advised that she should not be forced to see her father if she feels unsafe.
While I understand the Parenting Plan is in place, it is important to note that it is not legally enforceable. My primary concern is Blue’s safety and well-being, which is why I am following the guidance provided by professionals who are aware of the situation.
I am currently seeking further legal advice on this matter to ensure that Blue’s best interests are protected. Therefore, I kindly request an extension of 14 days to provide a further response while I obtain the necessary legal advice.
Thank you for your understanding.
Yours sincerely,
**** [Last Name]
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Feel free to adjust any details as needed.