Rolfe and Smythe

This matter came before The Honourable Justice Rose concerning parenting orders for three children. The proceedings involved the mother and the father, with the court's primary concern being the best interests of the children.

The court was required to determine several legal issues, including the interim arrangements for the mother's time with the children, the implications of a third party, Mr R, being present during contact, and decisions regarding the children's schooling. The court also needed to manage the future progression of the proceedings, including the potential need for further evidence and the setting of hearing dates.

Justice Rose made procedural orders requiring full and frank disclosure from all parties regarding matters affecting the children's best interests, and restricted further applications or subpoenas without leave. Interim orders suspended the current parenting arrangements, establishing supervised contact for the mother with the children every alternate Saturday at a contact centre, with the specific condition that Mr R was not to be present during these times. The mother was permitted to arrange for Mr R to be present at her premises during her contact time, but not when the children were with her. The court also addressed schooling, directing the mother to investigate potential school changes and to inform the father of her position within fourteen days, with the father granted leave to apply for interim orders regarding schooling thereafter. The proceedings were adjourned for a callover on 2 May 2008 to ascertain outstanding issues and make further directions.