Symon and Whiteley

The case of Symon and Whiteley concerned parenting arrangements for two children, X and Y, born in 2010 and 2012 respectively. The dispute was heard by Judge Mead.

The court was required to determine the specific orders regarding the children's living arrangements, time spent with each parent, communication between parents and children, and various ancillary matters concerning the children's welfare and the parents' responsibilities. This included establishing a detailed schedule for school terms and holidays, as well as provisions for special occasions like birthdays and public holidays.

Judge Mead ordered that the parties have equal shared parental responsibility for the children, with the children to live with the mother. The father was granted specific periods of time with the children during school terms and holidays, with a detailed schedule outlined for various holiday periods, including Christmas. The orders also established communication protocols, including telephone and video calls, and the use of communication and medication books. Furthermore, the court made orders regarding the parents' attendance at school events, access to school reports, notification of medical emergencies and treatments, and travel arrangements. Injunctions were granted restraining either parent from speaking negatively about the other to or in the presence of the children, or discussing the proceedings with them. The parties were also ordered to attend mediation for future parenting disputes and all other parenting applications were dismissed.