Judd and Cotton

In the matter of Judd and Cotton, heard before Judge Williams, the court was tasked with determining parenting orders concerning the child X. The dispute centred on the arrangements for X's living situation, time spent with each parent, and communication, particularly in light of an upcoming overseas trip for the mother.

The court was required to establish the specific terms of parental responsibility, the primary residence of X, and a detailed schedule for X's time with the father, encompassing school terms, holidays, and special occasions. Further issues included provisions for communication between X and the non-resident parent, arrangements for schooling, and protocols for international travel with X, including the exchange of passports and make-up time for the father due to the mother's overseas travel. The court also needed to address injunctions preventing discussion of proceedings with X and denigration of either parent.

The court ordered that the parents retain equal shared parental responsibility for X, with X to live with the mother. A comprehensive schedule was set out for X's time with the father, detailing specific periods during school terms, holidays, and special occasions, including provisions for alternating holiday arrangements in successive years. The orders also stipulated communication protocols, including telephone calls and electronic communication during overseas travel, and established procedures for international travel, including notice periods and passport exchange. Injunctions were imposed to prevent discussion of the proceedings with X and denigration of either parent in X's presence. The court also included particulars of obligations and consequences of contravention, as set out in an attached Fact Sheet.