ZELLNER & SCOPE

In the matter of *Zellner & Scope*, Cronin J granted the wife's application for an expedited hearing of outstanding parenting and financial issues. The court scheduled the final hearing for eight days, commencing on 5 January 2010, as the fifth case in the defended list. A mention hearing was set for 21 December 2009, and Registrars Sikiotis and Kaur were appointed as docketed registrars for case management, unless impracticable.

The court was required to determine the procedural steps necessary to ensure the efficient and timely resolution of the complex parenting and financial disputes. This involved setting strict deadlines for the filing of amended applications, evidence, financial statements, and other required documentation by both parties and the Independent Children’s Lawyer. The court also addressed the appointment of an Independent Children’s Lawyer for the child and the preparation of a family report by a family consultant.

Cronin J applied principles of case management under the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth) and the *Family Law Rules 2004* (Cth) to facilitate a just and equitable resolution. The orders emphasised the importance of parties complying with directions to avoid adverse consequences, including the potential for cases to be struck out or proceed on an undefended basis. The court also directed the appointment of a single expert witness for disputed asset valuations and mandated the provision of cost statements at the commencement of the hearing. The final orders also noted that the allocated place in the defended list was subject to change, requiring parties to monitor the list's progress.