Argyros and Argyros (No 2)

In *Argyros and Argyros (No 2)*, the Family Court of Australia considered an application by Ms Argyros for the appointment of a single expert, Dr D, to investigate whether either party suffered from a mental health or personality disorder. This application arose within the context of disputed parenting proceedings.

The primary legal issue before the court was whether there was an appropriate forensic reason to appoint a second expert to investigate the mental health of the parties, given that a previous expert, Dr E, had already been appointed by consent to conduct a similar investigation and had provided a report.

Justice Ryan dismissed the application, finding that while Dr E possessed the necessary qualifications and experience to provide his opinion, there was no sufficient forensic justification to appoint another expert to re-examine an issue already addressed by a qualified professional. The court noted that Dr E's report had concluded that neither party exhibited behaviour indicative of a frank mental illness, although he identified certain personality traits in the father. The court was not satisfied that the mother's submissions presented a compelling argument for a further expert investigation.