BLYTHE & BLYTHE

In the matter of Blythe & Blythe, heard before Judge Obradovic, the court was required to make final orders concerning the parenting arrangements for two children, X and Y. The proceedings involved a dispute between the parents regarding the children's living arrangements, parental responsibility, and time spent with each parent.

The central legal issues before the court were to determine the primary residence of the children, who should hold parental responsibility, and to establish a detailed schedule for the children's time with each parent, including provisions for school holidays, special occasions, and communication. The court also had to consider injunctive orders to protect the children from exposure to parental disputes and allegations, and to address the costs associated with a single expert report.

Judge Obradovic ordered that the children, X and Y, shall live with the father and that the father shall have sole parental responsibility. A comprehensive schedule was set for the children's time with the mother, including alternate weekends during school terms, specific periods during school holidays, and provisions for special occasions like Mother's Day and Father's Day. The court also made orders regarding changeovers, telephone communication, notification of address changes and emergencies, and medical appointments. Crucially, injunctive orders were made restraining both parents from discussing disputes, alleged abuse, or the children's preferences in the children's presence, and from engaging in abusive or demeaning conduct towards the other parent in front of the children. Finally, the father was ordered to reimburse the mother 50% of the single expert's expenses.