Latest from Family Court

Court mulls whether victim of domestic violence should have to pay costs to abuser

Lower courts found the man had been abusive but did not issue a protection order.

Artist wins appeal, ex-husband fails in legal bid to get half her copyright

However, Sirpa Alalaakkola's ex-husband will receive a larger share of other assets.

Mow your own lawns, judge tells mum with ‘unaffordable’ child support

The judge noted she drove a four-wheel drive vehicle when there were cheaper cars to run.

Judge decides kids better off with mum because dad can't 'preserve' their Māori culture

The children were raised in a Māori household, but lived with their dad after a breakup.

Jailed serial rapist barred from contacting daughters after sending them 'provocative' drawings

The artwork featured females in 'fairly provocative poses and dressed in very little'.

Govt department used protected Family Court information to suspend employee

MSD should have sought permission from the court first.

When wills go wrong: Why you need one - and what happens when it's challenged

'I used to think custody battles were the worst, until I presided over estate disputes.'

Summer reads: Why the Family Court needs fixing - and what it does to our children

A look at the Family Court and how parent custody battles are wrecking children’s lives.

Mum wanted a 'half-caste' baby, so she got a sperm donor - but then he went to court

The man wants his daughter to be aware of her identity and proud of her heritage.

Aunt denied access to niece and nephew applied to court to be their cultural adviser

But the parents didn’t want her near their children.

'Contrary to religious beliefs': Judge orders kids be vaccinated against mother’s wishes

The dad wanted his three children fully vaccinated. Their mother didn't.

‘I am not a family man’: Court order allows man to disown teen twins likely sired during threesome

The twins had his surname and he was named on their birth certificate.

Analysis: The election issue that has been 'completely missing'

While crime has been a major focus, the biggest component has been absent in campaigning.

The Ex-Files: Can I change my son’s surname?

The pros and cons - and what has been allowed in the past.

'No one would listen': Child put in care of attempted-murderer dad

Oranga Tamariki has apologised and offered the mother a payment of $4500.

Ex-Files: I left my husband in Australia - and want our kids to stay here with me

'My husband will be furious when he finds out I have no plans to return with the kids.'