ATKINSON & ATKINSON

This matter concerned an application by the father for orders regarding the children X and Y, born in 2008. The dispute revolved around the living arrangements and time spent between the children and their parents. The court was presided over by Judge Altobelli.

The primary legal issues before the court were to determine the primary residence of the children and to establish a schedule for the children to spend time with their father. Additionally, the court was required to consider the ongoing therapeutic counselling and support for the children and the role of the Independent Children’s Lawyer in overseeing this process.

The court ordered that the children live with their mother. The father was granted specific periods of time with the children, including Saturday afternoons from the conclusion of organised sport until 7:00 pm, Tuesday afternoons from after school until 7:00 pm, and weekly phone contact. All changeovers were to occur at a designated location. The court also mandated that the children continue to receive therapeutic counselling and authorised the release of information to the Independent Children’s Lawyer. A review of the father's time with the children was scheduled after 12 weeks to consider an increase to include overnight periods. The matter was adjourned for further mention.