REARDON & REARDON

In the matter of REARDON & REARDON, Judge Lapthorn considered issues relating to children's living arrangements and parental responsibility, as well as property division. The dispute involved the husband and wife, with a history of excessive alcohol use by one party being a significant consideration in determining the best interests of the children.

The court was required to determine the most appropriate orders for the children's welfare, specifically concerning their residence and the allocation of parental responsibility. Additionally, the court addressed the division of property, including the consideration of notional add-backs.

The court's reasoning focused on ensuring the children's safety and well-being, particularly in light of the husband's history of excessive alcohol use, which was assessed as presenting an unacceptable risk. Consequently, the court ordered equal shared parental responsibility but stipulated that the children would live with the wife. The orders also detailed specific arrangements for the children's time with the husband, including alternate weekends, school holidays, and special occasions, along with provisions for communication and extra-curricular activities.

The final orders discharged previous arrangements and established a detailed schedule for the children's time with each parent. The property division included the distribution of proceeds from a property sale and the allocation of various assets and liabilities to each party. The court also made orders regarding the parents' conduct towards each other and the children, and provisions for overseas travel and the disclosure of medical and educational information.