Latner and Simmel

The case of *Latner and Simmel* concerned parenting orders made by Hannam J in the Federal Circuit Court of Australia. The dispute involved the mother and father of a child, X, regarding arrangements for X's care and time spent with each parent.

The court was required to determine the terms of parenting orders that would best serve the interests of the child, X. This involved establishing principles of parental responsibility, determining with whom X would live, and detailing the specific arrangements for X's time with each parent, including during school terms, holidays, and special occasions. The court also had to address practical considerations such as communication between parents, travel arrangements, and the involvement of external programs and professional costs.

Hannam J made orders reflecting equal and shared parental responsibility for X. X was ordered to live with her mother, with the father to have defined periods of time with X, which were to progressively increase and become more detailed over time. The orders stipulated specific arrangements for X's time with her father, including pick-up and drop-off protocols, requirements for overnight stays, and limitations on taking X outside of Sydney. The court also included provisions for communication between parents regarding X's health and any changes in living arrangements, as well as the requirement for both parents to participate in a "Keeping Contact" program.

The father was ordered to pay a contribution towards the Independent Children's Lawyer's professional costs.