HUNT & HUNT

In this matter before Judge Newbrun, the dispute concerned interim parenting arrangements for two children. The mother sought orders for the children to live with her, with the father having time on alternate weekends, while the father proposed a continuation of equal shared care. A significant issue identified was the unsatisfactory level of communication between the parties, which was limited to text messages and emails, and also between the mother and the father's parents.

The court was required to determine the best interests of the children in light of the parties' competing proposals and the communication difficulties. Additionally, the court considered applications made by the parties to re-open the case and tender further evidence after the court had reserved its decision following the interim hearing, and whether it was in the interests of justice to grant these applications.

The court reasoned that, despite the father's proposal for equal time, the children's best interests would be served by them living with the mother and spending substantial and significant time with the father. The applications to re-open the case and tender further evidence were refused, as the court found it was not in the interests of justice to grant them. The court ultimately made orders for equal shared parental responsibility, with the children to live with the mother and spend substantial and significant time with the father, including detailed provisions for school terms, holidays, and special days. A family report was also ordered to assist the court in future determinations.