YOUNG & YOUNG

In the matter of YOUNG & YOUNG, the applicant father sought orders for increased time with the parties' two children, while the respondent mother raised concerns regarding the father's mental health. Judge Scarlett presided over the proceedings.

The court was required to determine the parenting arrangements for the children, specifically addressing the father's request for further time, in light of the mother's concerns about his mental health. A key issue was the need for expert evidence to inform the court's decision on this matter.

His Honour discharged previous interim orders and made new orders establishing equal shared parental responsibility for the children, who were to live with the mother. The father was granted specific periods of time with the children during school terms and shorter school holidays. Crucially, a clinical psychologist was appointed as a court expert to inquire into and report on matters relating to the father's mental health, with both parties ordered to attend interviews and provide relevant documents. The mother was initially solely liable for the costs of the court expert, subject to further order. Both parties were also restrained from discussing the proceedings with or criticising the other party in the presence of the children.