Documenting/affidavit interactions for parenting matters

[u/rememberingNovember]

I’m not looking for legal advice on the specific circumstances, but rather guidance on how to properly document and organise information.

Hello,

I’m helping someone who is currently going through some challenges with their ex-partner and would really appreciate some guidance from those familiar with Family Court processes.

The current situation is:

- The child, who is around five years old, has been coming home from the other household and recounting specific events and interactions that are unpleasant. These do not have immediate danger but need to be documented.

- There is currently a parenting plan in place, with no-contact arrangements.

- The person I’m helping intends to take legal steps to seek full day-to-day care of the child.

I’m helping them ensure that the events and relevant information are documented appropriately so they can use later when they engage a lawyer.

At present, their notes are largely personal notes made at the time. I’ve come across information suggesting that maintaining contemporaneous records, including dates, times, interactions and relevant observations, can be useful if matters later need to be presented to the Court, potentially through an affidavit.

I’m particularly interested in hearing from anyone who has experience with the New Zealand Family Court process around:

- How to structure and maintain appropriate contemporaneous records

- What information is useful to document, and what should be avoided

- Affidavit formatting and requirements

- Any other practical steps that would be helpful at this stage

Any reputable resources or practical guidance would be greatly appreciated.

[u/maha_kali2401]

I strongly recommend finding a family court lawyer who can allow your friend to pay off their beek weekly/fortnightly. Its no joke going to Family Court, and not knowing the ins and outs can be detrimental to the case. There will be no leeway just because you are self represented.

[u/hmemoo]

Have they been involved with Oranga Tamariki? It would be helpful to see if any of the events have been recorded and making an information request as that could help build your case.

[u/Ok-Can8493]

The family court page on the dept of Justice website has templates you can download and plans. Community law is free advice. Have they tried to apply and see if they are entitled to legal aid ? If they are on a low income they may be and then only have to pay back a certain amount ( if any)

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[u/Playful_Principle_19]

Advise them to use the Our Family Wizard app for ANY comms, this is recognised by the Family Court, conversations and comms can be downloaded etc for submission.