Scales and Seddon

In the matter of *Scales and Seddon*, heard by Judge Neville, the dispute concerned parenting arrangements for the child, X. The orders reflect a resolution reached between the Mother and the Father regarding their respective roles and responsibilities in the child's life.

The court was required to determine the terms of parental responsibility, the child's living arrangements, and the specific times the child would spend with each parent. Additionally, the court addressed communication protocols between the parents, restrictions on disparaging remarks about each other in the child's presence, and specific provisions regarding the disclosure of sensitive information. The court also considered the appointment of an Independent Children's Lawyer and the finalisation of extant applications.

The court ordered that the Mother and Father share equal parental responsibility for the child, with the child to live with the Mother. The orders then detailed a phased approach to the Father's time with the child, commencing with limited weekend contact and progressively increasing to include overnight stays and a division of school holidays. Specific provisions were made for Father's Day and Mother's Day, as well as Christmas. The court also imposed mutual restraints on the parties regarding abusive language and the discussion of proceedings in front of the child, with a specific prohibition on the Mother discussing certain sensitive matters with the child. Further orders mandated ongoing communication about the child's health and contact details, and the appointment of each parent as a contact for the child with relevant institutions. The Independent Children's Lawyer was discharged, and all outstanding applications were dismissed, finalising the matter.