Bain and Stewart (No. 6)

In Bain and Stewart (No. 6), heard before Justice Cronin, the dispute concerned parenting orders for a child born in September 1997. The court was required to determine the arrangements for the child's residence, parental responsibility, time spent with each parent, and communication between the parents and the child.

The court's reasoning focused on establishing a framework for the child's upbringing and contact with both parents, while also addressing specific practicalities and potential future issues. Key legal principles applied included those governing parental responsibility, the child's living arrangements, and the nature and frequency of contact. The court also considered the role of professional advice, specifically from Dr. T, in relation to the child's psychological well-being, and the involvement of an Independent Children's Lawyer.

The orders discharged all existing parenting orders. The father was granted sole parental responsibility for major long-term decisions, with a requirement to notify the mother by email of such decisions. The child was ordered to live with the father. The mother was granted specific periods of time with the child, including alternate weekends and portions of school holidays, with detailed provisions regarding notification, travel, and the duration and nature of contact. Communication between the mother and child was also regulated, including telephone calls and postal correspondence, with specific conditions to ensure privacy and facilitate contact. The orders also stipulated arrangements for medical and educational information, the involvement of Dr. T, and the discharge of the Independent Children's Lawyer.