Self-Represented (Sandra Ward

This costs endorsement follows a 13.5-day trial in a family law matter.

The court considered the parties’ submissions on costs, the divided success at trial, and the reasonableness of offers to settle.

The court applied the Family Law Rules and relevant case law, ultimately ordering the respondent, Mr. Elliott, to pay the applicant, Ms. Churchill, $15,000 in costs.

This decision addresses a high-conflict family law dispute involving decision-making responsibility, parenting time, child support, and spousal support between Katherine Churchill and Christopher David Elliott.

The court considered the best interests of the children, the credibility of the parties, and the recommendations of the Office of the Children’s Lawyer (OCL).

The court ordered a week-about parenting schedule for N.E., parallel decision-making (with Mr. Elliott responsible for health and Ms. Churchill for dental and extracurriculars), and set child support obligations.

The court declined to set aside the separation agreement for spousal support due to insufficient pleadings and evidence.

The OCL’s recommendations were not followed due to concerns about neutrality and methodology.