Michel and Bois

In *Michel and Bois*, Brown J of the Family Court of Australia considered parenting orders concerning two children, D Bois (also known as D Michel) and S. The dispute involved the parents' respective responsibilities and the children's living arrangements.

The court was required to determine the nature of parental responsibility, the specific living arrangements for the children, and whether any restraining orders were necessary against the mother. Additionally, the court needed to address the involvement and role of an Independent Children's Lawyer, including steps to locate and inform a Mr W about the proceedings and orders.

Brown J made orders for equal shared parental responsibility, with the children to live with each parent on a week-about basis. Specific provisions were made for Father's Day and Mother's Day, and for communication between the children and each parent. The mother was restrained from assaulting, threatening, denigrating, or harassing the children. The court also directed the Independent Children's Lawyer to facilitate the children meeting with them and to attempt to locate Mr W, serving him with the orders if found. The orders included a fact sheet detailing obligations and consequences of contravention, and provided for the discharge of the Independent Children's Lawyer upon compliance.