Custody arrangements

Parental responsibility is exercised jointly by both parents. The separation of the parents does not by itself alter the joint exercise of parental responsibility.

The court shall determine the child's habitual residence and the arrangements for contact with the other parent by reference to the best interests of the child, taking into account the child's age, the stability of each home, and the willingness of each parent to support the child's relationship with the other.

A child capable of forming their own views shall be given the opportunity to be heard in proceedings concerning them, and the views expressed shall be given due weight in accordance with the child's age and maturity.

Sole exercise of parental responsibility is ordered only where joint exercise would be contrary to the interests of the child.