HARLE & NORCOTT

In *Harle & Norcott*, heard by Judge Altobelli, the dispute concerned an interim parenting application made by the mother following the withdrawal and dismissal of a contravention application. The parents were described as being in high conflict, and the central issue was an alleged refusal by the child to spend time with the father.

The court was required to determine the appropriate interim parenting arrangements for the child, considering the high conflict between the parents and the child's expressed wishes or behaviour. This involved assessing the immediate welfare and best interests of the child in light of the circumstances that led to the application.

Judge Altobelli reasoned that the existing orders, specifically those made on 10 August 2018, needed to be suspended due to the circumstances. The court ordered that the children live with the mother pending further order, and that the children spend time with the father on alternate Sundays between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm, commencing from 21 July 2019. The matter was adjourned for a mention, with a direction for the parents to attend in person with their legal representatives if a report was available. The court also noted that existing non-denigration orders and restraints on discussing proceedings with the children remained in force, and directed the Independent Children’s Lawyer to meet with the children to explain the new interim orders.