Sheridan and Sheridan (No. 5)

In the matter of *Sheridan and Sheridan (No. 5)*, Benjamin J considered orders concerning the welfare of a child, H. The proceedings involved the father and mother, who sought to resolve issues relating to the child's contact with the father and the environment in which the child was being raised.

The court was required to determine appropriate interim orders regarding communication between the father and the child, the parties' conduct in the child's presence, and the child's exposure to drug culture. Additionally, the court needed to consider the preparation of a Family Report to ascertain the child's wishes concerning his time and communication with the father.

Benjamin J made orders by consent, restraining both parties from discussing the proceedings with the child or in the child's presence, and from abusing or demeaning each other or their respective family members in the child's hearing. The court also granted an injunction preventing either party from exposing the child to any aspect of drug culture. Pursuant to section 62G(2) of the *Family Law Act 1975*, a Family Consultant was directed to prepare a short-form Family Report regarding the child's wishes. The parties were ordered to attend all appointments with the Family Consultant and ensure the child's attendance. The proceedings were then stood over for an interim hearing before Justice Dawe.