LANGMEIL & GRANGE

In the matter of *Langmeil & Grange*, Dawe J considered an application by the mother for final orders in family law proceedings concerning her children. The proceedings were at an interim stage, and the mother, who was unrepresented, had filed her application without the required leave. The court also noted the potential for a *Rice and Asplund* issue to arise.

The primary legal issues before the court were whether the mother's application for final orders should be dismissed due to procedural irregularities, and what interim orders were appropriate to prepare the matter for final hearing, with paramount consideration given to the best interests of the children. The court was also required to determine whether to amend previous orders regarding the Independent Children's Lawyer.

Dawe J held that it would be inappropriate to dismiss the mother's application at the interim stage, emphasising the paramount importance of the children's best interests. The court granted leave for the parties and the Independent Children's Lawyer to obtain copies of subpoenaed documents from the Police Department, subject to an injunction restraining disclosure to any unauthorised persons. The question of interim orders for trial preparation was adjourned, with directions for parties to file and serve applications and supporting affidavits. The listing for the final hearing was vacated and maintained for procedural orders. Pending further orders, the previous orders for supervised time between the mother and children at a Children's Contact Centre were continued.