BEHZADI & AGASSI

In *Behzadi & Agassi*, the applicant, Ms Behzadi, sought an order that the respondent, Ms Agassi, pay her costs of the proceedings. The matter came before Benjamin J in the Family Court of Australia.

The central legal issue before the court was the quantum and basis of any costs order to be made between the parties. Specifically, the court was required to determine whether the respondent should be ordered to pay the applicant's legal costs, and if so, on what basis and to what extent.

His Honour ordered that the respondent pay 50 per cent of the applicant's legal costs, to be agreed or assessed on a party/party basis in accordance with the *Family Law Rules 2004* (Cth). The court also certified that it was reasonable to engage counsel to attend the proceedings, pursuant to Rule 19.50 of the *Family Law Rules 2004* (Cth). Any other costs sought in relation to the costs application were discharged.