DONALDSON & RYDER

In *Donaldson & Ryder*, the Family Court of Australia considered allegations of contravention of final parenting orders. The respondent faced six counts of alleged contravention, with the court finding that no reasonable excuse for these contraventions had been established. However, the court also determined that the contraventions were of a less serious nature.

The primary legal issue before the court was whether the respondent had contravened the final parenting orders and, if so, what orders should be made in response. A secondary issue concerned the appropriate orders for costs.

Carew J reasoned that while contraventions had occurred, their less serious nature warranted a response other than a more severe penalty. Consequently, the court ordered the respondent to enter into a good behaviour bond for a period of three months. In relation to costs, the respondent was ordered to contribute $2,000 towards the applicant's costs, payable within 90 days.