HABEN & PADDON

In the matter of *Haben & Paddon*, heard by Judge Altobelli, the dispute concerned interim parenting arrangements for two children, [X] (born 2012) and [Y] (born 2016). The proceedings involved serious allegations of violence and abuse, with one child identified as particularly vulnerable. The core of the dispute revolved around whether the father should have supervised time with the children at a contact centre or no time at all.

The court was required to determine the appropriate interim parenting orders, specifically whether to grant supervised contact or no contact, in light of the serious allegations of violence and abuse. A key consideration was the vulnerability of one of the children and the potential risks posed by the father's alleged conduct. The court also had to consider the scope of injunctive relief necessary to protect the mother and children.

Judge Altobelli reasoned that given the serious allegations of violence and abuse, and the particular vulnerability of one of the children, the father should have no contact or communication with the children at this interim stage. The court applied principles of child welfare and protection, considering what violent and abusive parents might be capable of doing. Consequently, the court ordered that the mother have sole responsibility for the children, that the children live with the mother, and issued an injunction restraining the father from approaching or contacting the mother, the children, or anyone with whom the mother is in a domestic relationship. The injunction included provisions for arrest without warrant in the event of a breach. The matter was adjourned to a date to be fixed.