What happens to an application for a parenting order once divorce proceedings are commenced?

When divorce proceedings are initiated, an application for a parenting order is typically stayed until the divorce is resolved. This means that the court will temporarily halt the progress of the parenting order application while the divorce case is being handled.

The rationale behind this stay is that the outcomes of the divorce may significantly impact the parenting arrangements. Courts often prefer to have a complete understanding of the family dynamics and the final divorce terms before making decisions about parenting orders. By staying the application, the court ensures that any orders regarding parenting are made in the context of the finalized divorce, allowing for a more comprehensive and informed decision that considers the overall situation of both parents and the child's best interests.

In contrast, other options such as automatic denial, expedience, or proceeding as normal do not accurately reflect the typical legal practice regarding the interaction between divorce proceedings and parenting applications. These options fail to recognize the importance of resolving the divorce first to inform the decisions surrounding parenting.