Harris and Harris

In the matter of *Harris and Harris*, heard before Cronin J, the applications for final orders were adjourned for hearing. The dispute concerned the division of property and financial matters between the parties. The court set a new hearing date, commencing on 30 September 2013, but not before 10 October 2013, estimating it as a four-day matter.

The court was required to determine the procedural steps necessary to ensure the efficient and fair resolution of the property dispute. This included setting strict timelines for the filing and service of evidence, financial statements, and other required documentation by both the applicant and the respondent. The court also addressed the preparation of a family report, the exchange of valuations for various assets, and the disclosure of specific financial documents and accounting records.

Cronin J applied principles of case management to ensure the parties were trial-ready. The reasoning involved a detailed allocation of responsibilities and deadlines, emphasizing the importance of affidavits for evidence in chief and compliance with the *Family Law Rules* regarding financial statements. The court also directed the parties to engage single expert valuers for certain properties and assets, with costs to be shared equally, and mandated the exchange of written appraisals for other items. Provisions were made for objections to evidence and the potential for undefended proceedings should a party fail to comply with the orders.

The court's orders outlined a comprehensive schedule for the preparation and presentation of the case. This included specific dates for filing evidence, financial statements, and valuations, as well as directions for the preparation of outlines of case and summaries of argument. The orders also addressed the disclosure of financial information related to company loan accounts, trusts, and superannuation funds, with a clear directive for the husband to instruct his accountants to prepare specific financial documents. Liberty to apply was granted.