Willis & Sampson & Ors

In the matter of *Willis & Sampson & Ors*, Kent J of the Family Court of Australia considered a dispute between a Wife and her Husband, as well as third parties including Mr J Willis and various entities. The proceedings involved the Wife seeking disclosure and information regarding the Husband's financial dealings, specifically concerning funds transferred from M Pty Ltd, the application of those funds, and the use of $210,000 for the purchase of a motor vehicle.

The court was required to determine the appropriate costs orders to be made, including whether costs should be awarded on an indemnity basis, and to address the joinder of Mr J Willis to the proceedings. Further issues included the appropriateness of legal representation by Counsel for the parties and the provision of documents by third-party entities pursuant to subpoenas.

Kent J ordered that the Husband pay the Wife's costs on an indemnity basis, encompassing the costs of joining Mr J Willis, the Wife's costs related to seeking disclosure of funds from M Pty Ltd and their application, and costs associated with inquiries into the $210,000 and the motor vehicle purchase. The court also certified that it was appropriate for both parties to be represented by Counsel at the hearing. Additionally, several entities, including B Pty Ltd, Westpac Bank, Woods Hatcher solicitors, and Ramsden Lawyers, were granted a further fourteen days to provide documents requested by the Wife under subpoenas, and the parties were granted leave to inspect and copy these documents.