MEIER & MEIER

In the matter of *Meier & Meier*, heard before Judge Harman, the dispute concerned parenting arrangements for three children. The proceedings were undefended, with the father, Mr Meier, representing himself. The case involved allegations of family violence, the views of the children, and the costs associated with the Independent Children’s Lawyer.

The court was required to determine the appropriate parenting orders, specifically addressing issues of parental responsibility, the children's living arrangements, and the nature and extent of the father's time and communication with the children. Further, the court needed to consider the role of the Independent Children’s Lawyer and the allocation of their costs.

The court ordered that prior parenting orders be discharged. The children were to live with the Mother, who was granted sole parental responsibility, meaning she would not be required to confer with the Father on long-term decisions. The Father's time and communication with the children were to be as agreed between the parents, or at the children's instigation with the Mother's consent and knowledge. The court also issued detailed orders regarding communication between parents and with schools and medical practitioners, emphasizing the Mother's sole decision-making authority in educational and health matters. The Independent Children’s Lawyer was discharged with thanks, and the Father was ordered to pay their costs fixed at $8,632.05 by a specified date, with provisions for recovery and interest in case of non-payment. The Father was also granted a limited time to apply to reopen the proceedings.