Portman and Jacob

This matter came before Judge Willis concerning parenting arrangements for X, born in 2003. The dispute involved the mother and father regarding parental responsibility, living arrangements, communication, and involvement in the child's education and health.

The court was required to determine the extent of equal shared parental responsibility, including how decisions about the child's major long-term issues would be made and the process for resolving disagreements. It also needed to establish the child's living arrangements, specifying when the child would reside with each parent, and to set out detailed provisions for communication between the parents and the child, as well as their respective involvement in the child's schooling and healthcare. Further issues included financial contributions towards the child's expenses and the implementation of specific therapeutic recommendations.

The court's reasoning, as reflected in the consent orders, established that the mother and father would have equal shared parental responsibility for major long-term decisions, requiring consultation and genuine efforts to reach joint decisions. In the event of an impasse, mediation was mandated, with the father having the final decision-making authority if mediation failed. Specific provisions were made for the child's daily care and welfare, with each parent responsible during their respective periods of care. The orders detailed a comprehensive schedule for the child's living arrangements, including school holidays and specific weekend time for the mother. Communication protocols were established, including regular Skype and telephone contact, and provisions for special occasions. Both parents were granted equal access to information regarding the child's education and health, and were authorised to attend school events. Financial responsibilities were allocated, with shared costs for certain medical and therapeutic services, and a cap on specific expenses. Restraints were imposed on denigrating the other parent and using the child as a conduit for communication.

By consent, all existing orders were discharged. The court made detailed orders regarding parental responsibility, living arrangements, communication, involvement in the child's education and health, financial contributions, and restraints on the parties. The Independent Children's Lawyer was to explain the orders to the child and then be discharged. Notations were included regarding school fees and potential reviews of living arrangements if the mother relocated.