Dowling and McLeod

In the matter of *Dowling and McLeod*, heard by Judge Phipps, the court considered parenting orders concerning the child X. The dispute involved the arrangements for the child's residence, time spent with each parent, and parental responsibility.

The court was required to determine the specific parenting orders that would best serve the child's welfare and best interests. This included deciding on sole or joint parental responsibility, the child's primary residence, the schedule for time spent with the father, and provisions for communication and decision-making between the parents. The court also had to consider the implications of an existing intervention order against the father.

Judge Phipps ordered that the mother have sole parental responsibility for the child X, with the child to live with the mother. The father was granted specific, detailed time with the child, including during school terms and holidays, with provisions for changeovers and communication. The court also made orders regarding the child's schooling, communication between the parents (limited to text or email for child-related matters, except in emergencies), and the exchange of information about the child's health and welfare. Orders were made restraining both parents from denigrating the other parent or discussing proceedings in the child's presence. The father was also ordered to pay a portion of a report's cost. All previous parenting orders were discharged, and the order appointing an Independent Children's Lawyer was discharged.