Hellas and Charters

In the matter of *Hellas and Charters*, Hogan J made final orders concerning the living arrangements and parental responsibility for two children, B and C. The dispute involved the parents' arrangements for their children, with the court ultimately determining the terms of their future care and contact.

The court was required to determine where the children would live, who would have parental responsibility for long-term decisions, and the extent of the father's contact with the children. Additionally, the court addressed the process for the father to communicate with the children through letters, cards, and gifts, and the mother's role in facilitating this. The court also considered the discharge of the Independent Children’s Lawyer and the dismissal of outstanding applications.

Hogan J ordered that the children live with the mother and that she have sole parental responsibility for all major long-term issues. The father was to spend no time with the children unless agreed in writing by both parents. The father was permitted to send letters, cards, and gifts to the children via an address nominated by the mother, who was to assess their appropriateness and provide them to the children within 48 hours if suitable. The mother was also required to notify the father of her decision regarding the provision of such items and provide reasons if she chose not to pass them on. The Independent Children’s Lawyer was discharged, and all other outstanding applications were dismissed. The orders included particulars regarding contravention and assistance, as set out in an attached Fact Sheet.