POELS & POELS

In the matter of *Poels & Poels*, Henderson J of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia was required to determine the quantum of costs to be paid by the husband to the wife. The dispute concerned the wife's entitlement to costs following proceedings related to property settlement.

The primary legal issue before the Court was the assessment and apportionment of the wife's legal costs. Specifically, the Court needed to determine the total amount payable and the method by which the husband would satisfy this obligation.

Henderson J ordered that the husband pay the wife's costs in the sum of $8,860.00. This amount was to be paid in two parts: $3,003.33 for counsel's fees, due within seven days, and the remaining balance to be deducted from the husband's share of the final property settlement. The final form of the order was contingent upon its formal entry into the Court's records.