MAGISTRATE' S COURT.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LII, Issue 15849, 20 February 1915, Page 5

MAGISTRATE' S COURT.

FAMILY DISPUTES

As application was made to Mr. C. C. Kettle, S.M., at the Magistrate's Court yesterday by John Atkinson to have the custody of his three children vested in his aunt, Sarah Ann Holmes, instead of his mother-in-law, Sarah Webb. Mr. A. L. Denniston appeared in support of the application and Mr. J. R. Lundon appeared to oppose it. Mr. Atkinson contended that the place where these children were at present was not suitable, and they would be much better with his aunt. Mr. Lundon stated the children had been with their grandmother for over two years, and they were well looked after and cared for. The applicant lived with his aunt, and if the guardianship of the children was transferred to her it would in effect be giving control of them to the father. The children'?/ mother resided with them, and she wag strongly opposed to this course. The magistrate said it was a very difficult case to decide, and he would reserve his decision.

Lily King Leo (Mr. Matthews) was granted a summary separation from her husband, William Smith Lee., on the ground that he had failed to provide her and hex family with adequate means of maintenance. As defendant was at present out of employment the question of making a maintenance order was reserved.