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If you can't reach a private parenting agreement, you can apply to the Family Court to decide for you.
Guardianship issues include what school the child goes to, medical treatment (other than routine medical matters), what their culture, language and religion will be and any changes to their name.
You and the other people involved in the case may come to an agreement at any time after an application has been made to the Family Court. You will need to ask the Family Court to consider making what you’ve agreed into an order. To do this, you and the other people involved in the case must file a consent memorandum.
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Going through a change in your whānau situation can be hard. It's normal to feel overwhelmed. There are services available to help and support you through this time.
Visit our help page