Batstone and Batstone

This matter came before Murphy J concerning financial orders sought by the wife in proceedings between the husband and wife. The dispute centred on the disclosure of financial information and the valuation of matrimonial property.

The court was required to determine the extent of financial disclosure to be provided by the husband to the wife, the process for agreeing on the valuation of matrimonial property, and the interim distribution of proceeds from the sale of the former matrimonial home. The court also needed to address the costs associated with jointly appointed valuers and reserve the classification of a significant payment to the wife pending further determination.

By consent, the court ordered the husband to provide extensive financial documentation within 28 days, covering all property interests, entities, financial accounts, and insurance policies, as well as details of transactions and contributions. Following full disclosure, the parties were to exchange correspondence to agree on property values. If agreement could not be reached, a specific process for appointing joint valuers for real estate and business interests was to be undertaken, with costs to be shared equally, subject to the wife receiving an interim payment.

The court further ordered that the wife be paid $600,000 from the net proceeds of sale of the former matrimonial home, with the remaining half to be held in the wife's solicitors' trust account pending further application. The classification of the $600,000 payment was reserved for a trial judge, and the wife was ordered to provide detailed records of its expenditure. Liberty to apply was granted to the husband regarding the balance of the net proceeds. Costs were reserved.