MAXWELL & ADAMS

In *Maxwell & Adams*, Hogan J of the Family Court of Australia determined final orders concerning the living arrangements and parental responsibility for three children. The dispute centred on the future care and upbringing of the children, B, C, and D, following previous interim orders.

The primary legal issues before the court were: (1) with whom the children should live; (2) who should hold parental responsibility for major long-term issues concerning the children; and (3) the extent of the children's time with and communication with the father. The court was also required to make consequential orders regarding the Independent Children's Lawyer and outstanding applications.

Hogan J ordered that the children live with the mother and that she have sole parental responsibility for major long-term issues, including their education, religious and cultural upbringing, and health. The court further ordered that, unless otherwise agreed in writing by the mother and father, the children shall not spend time or communicate with the father. The Independent Children's Lawyer was discharged, and all outstanding applications were dismissed. The court also made directions for the destruction or return of subpoenaed documents and exhibits after the appeal period. Pursuant to sections 65DA(2) and 62B of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), the orders included a fact sheet detailing the obligations created by the orders, the consequences of contravention, and information on assistance for compliance.