Danks and Thomas

In the matter of *Danks and Thomas*, heard by Judge Altobelli, the dispute concerned parenting orders for two children, X and Y. The proceedings were conducted in the absence of the Respondent Father, who was at liberty to apply to vary the orders made.

The court was required to determine the appropriate parenting arrangements for the children, specifically regarding parental responsibility, living arrangements, and the extent of contact with each parent. Additionally, the court considered the issue of costs associated with the proceedings, including the fees of an Independent Children's Lawyer and the Mother's legal costs.

Judge Altobelli ordered that the Mother have sole parental responsibility for the children and that the children live with her. Crucially, the court ordered that the children spend no time with the Father and restrained the Father from attending the children's residence, schools, or any place the children might be, and from approaching the children or the Mother. The Father was also ordered to pay the costs of the Independent Children's Lawyer and the Mother's legal costs.