Donaghey and Donaghey (No 2)

In the matter of *Donaghey and Donaghey (No 2)*, Murphy J of the Federal Circuit Court of Australia considered an application by the Independent Children's Lawyer concerning the method of expert evidence presentation. The dispute involved the presentation of evidence from several professionals, including psychologists, a family report writer, and a psychiatrist, in proceedings concerning children.

The primary legal issue before the court was whether to grant leave for these experts to give evidence via telephone link. A further issue arose regarding the content and provision of an addendum report by Professor Q, a psychiatrist, to ensure her evidence adequately addressed the matters relevant to the case and provided a foundation for her ultimate opinions.

Murphy J granted the application for experts to give evidence by telephone link, approving the participation of Mr P (psychologist), Ms C (Family Report writer), Mr A (psychologist), and Professor Q (psychiatrist) in this manner. The court also directed Professor Q to provide an addendum report, encompassing all matters she considered professionally relevant to the case's determination, with a particular focus on establishing a basis for her final opinions. The court respectfully requested that Professor Q expedite the provision of this addendum report.