GRAHAM & HOBBES

In the matter of *Graham & Hobbes*, heard before Le Poer Trench J, the dispute concerned the time a child would spend with their mother. The court was tasked with determining the arrangements for the children's time and communication with their mother.

The central legal issue before the court was how to ascertain the children's views and wishes regarding their living arrangements and their relationship with their mother. This involved considering the appropriate method for gathering this information, particularly in light of the existing circumstances.

Le Poer Trench J ordered that a family report be prepared by a family consultant. This report was specifically directed to address the relevant history and, crucially, the views, perceptions, and wishes of each of the three children concerning their current living arrangements and whether they should spend any time or have any communication with their mother. The court further directed that the family consultant ensure the children did not come into contact with their mother during the preparation of the report and that the consultant meet separately with each parent to understand their respective positions.