Stratton and Krouse and Anor

In the matter of Stratton and Krouse and Anor, heard by Judge Harland, the dispute concerned parenting orders for a child born in 2007. The proceedings involved the mother and the step-father, Mr Krouse, with the second respondent not having participated in the proceedings.

The court was required to determine the future parenting arrangements for the child, including issues of parental responsibility, living arrangements, and the extent of the step-father's future involvement with the child. The court also considered the conditions under which the step-father might seek to vary the orders in the future, particularly concerning his contact with the child.

Judge Harland discharged all previous parenting orders and made new orders granting the mother sole parental responsibility for the child, with the child to live with the mother. The step-father was ordered not to spend time with the child, but the mother was directed to facilitate any communication the child wished to have with him. The court also stipulated that the mother provide the step-father with copies of notices and reports concerning the child at his expense, with the liberty to remove identifying details. Furthermore, the court outlined specific requirements the step-father must meet, including evidence of treatment for Attention Deficit Disorder, completion of a Parenting Orders Program, and drug and alcohol assessments, before he could seek to vary the orders for contact with the child. The appointment of the Independent Children’s Lawyer was discharged.