HASKELL & NEWCOMBE

In the matter of Haskell & Newcombe, heard by Judge Harland, the dispute concerned the division of property following a long-term relationship. The central issue revolved around the treatment of an inheritance that constituted the vast majority of the asset pool.

The court was required to determine how to fairly distribute the marital assets, particularly in light of the significant inheritance received by one party. This involved considering the contributions of each party to the relationship and the acquisition, conservation, and improvement of the property, as well as the future needs of each party.

Judge Harland reasoned that while the inheritance formed the bulk of the assets, the contributions of the other party to the relationship and the preservation of the asset pool warranted a significant adjustment in favour of that party. The court applied principles of equitable distribution under the *Family Law Act*, balancing the direct financial contributions with non-financial contributions and future needs. The court ordered that the respondent pay the applicant a sum of $702,226, and that the A Street, Suburb B property be transferred to the respondent's sole name. The applicant was also ordered to withdraw a caveat over the C Street, Suburb D property and to pay out a specific personal loan. Further orders declared each party the sole owner of various personalty, monies, vehicles, and superannuation entitlements not otherwise dealt with, and addressed the indemnification of debts. The court also made provision for the Registrar to execute documents if a party failed to do so.