Hello! I'm new here but could really do with a bit of advice from another mum who's been in this position.
So I've had to apply to the courts for a child arrangement order and we've got our final hearing next month. At first I wasn't concerned but now it's drawing closer, I'm getting really nervous. Brief run down as to why I've had to do this:
My ex-partner is constantly letting the kids down, changing times and days he's coming to pick them up/drop them off home at the last minute. He's constantly causing an argument with me, calling me every name under the sun, accusing me of the most ridiculous things and quite frankly I've had enough of it all now.
So that's that!
Are there any mum's here who have been through this? Any advice as to what to expect? I mean my main concern is that my ex-partner will bring up my current partner because my ex knows about some historic allegations that were made against my partner and I fear he will bring those up just to feel like he's in control and "winning".
Social services & the police are happy enough with all the evidence we provided that my partner isn't a threat to me or my children. We've been living together for 2yrs and everything has been perfect.
If the police and social services don't believe he poses a threat, surely that should help with proceedings? As I am terrified they're going to grant my ex custody if this old stuff gets brought up. I've already made it clear to my partner if that happens, my kids come first and I'd have to walk away from the relationship in order to have my children.
If anyone has any advice at all about the family courts and what I should expect I'd really appreciate your help as I am absolutely terrified at the moment!
Thank you for reading & for any help you can give!
Laura xo