GENIM & GENIM

In the matter of GENIM & GENIM, Berman J considered applications concerning the children X and Y, and an interim distribution of property. The dispute involved the parents' conflict and its impact on the children, with competing proposals for their living arrangements and time with each parent. The wife also sought an interim property settlement.

The court was required to determine the parenting arrangements for the children, specifically with whom they would live and spend time, and to make orders regarding the interim distribution of property. A key consideration in the parenting orders was the children's exposure to parental conflict and the need to maintain a meaningful relationship with both parents.

Berman J ordered equal shared parental responsibility for the children, with the children to live with the wife and spend time with the husband on a defined schedule, including alternate weekends and half of school holidays. The court also made specific orders regarding handovers and imposed an injunction restraining the removal of the children from Australia for twenty-four months, requesting their names be placed on the Family Law Watchlist. Regarding property, the court ordered the distribution of funds held in the District Court Suitors Fund, including a sum for the wife by way of interim property settlement, a payment to the children's school, and the balance to be held in a joint interest-bearing account pending further order or agreement.