Dodd and Clare

In the matter of Dodd and Clare, heard before Judge Scarlett, the dispute concerned parenting orders for the children X and Y. The court was required to determine the arrangements for the children's living situation, time spent with each parent, and communication between the parents and children.

The court's reasoning led to the discharge of all earlier parenting orders. It established equal shared parental responsibility for the children, with the children to live with the Father. The Mother was granted specific periods of time with the children, including on certain weekends, during school holidays, and for religious festivals, with detailed provisions for collection, return, and travel arrangements. The court also made orders regarding communication between parents and children, including daily contact and the facilitation of communication by the parent with whom the children are residing.

Further orders included injunctions restraining the parties from criticising each other in the presence of the children, discussing the proceedings with the children, or disclosing court documents. The parties were also ordered to keep each other informed of their contact details and any emergencies or significant events concerning the children. Both parents were granted the right to attend all school and extra-curricular events involving the children, with specific responsibilities outlined for transportation and day-to-day care at these events. The Father was also directed to facilitate the Mother's access to school-related information concerning the children. The Independent Children's Lawyer was discharged 28 days after the order.