To ask how much it cost you to go to court about access?

[Queenofthestress]

Me & exdp split a month ago, we have one 6 month DD together, we split due to drug use, alcoholism and DV all ending in a DV report but no arrest, hes not on the BC but looking at going to court to go on it

HV has safe guarding concerns and so do I, both the HV and solicitor have said if he gets parental responsibility then to stop contact until he takes me to court as he could walk off with her and legally I have no position to get him to return her and the safe guarding concerns

I'm looking to save for a solicitor for the inevitiablity of court for access as im on income support & carers allowance, so I'm just wondering, how much did it cost everyone else?

I've posted this on other sections but had no replies so hoping someone on here will answer

Hi I'm in an incredibly similar situation (HV concerned, father not on BC etc). I was told by both the midwife and the HV that it costs anything up to £20,000 in total for them to get themselves on it especially if you insist on a DNA test. It does seem ridiculously high but it could well cost that much. However DD's father has since made no effort and as far as Im aware couldn't care less. He might just be saying it to scare you and try and control you, but it is good to be prepared in case. Have you spoken to citizens advice?
I was told that if I had concerns and the father was insisting on seeing DD without me, I apparently could refer to social services myself which could also then result in contact centres etc.
It might be worth potentially taking him to court and getting a residency order, so then he would legally have to return her to you?

Oh sorry that figure was how much it would cost the father, not necessarily how much it would cost you. I'm not sure if it would be the same on both sides, obviously depending on legal teams etc.

Legal costs can vary hugely depending on what part of the country you are in. If there has been domestic violence in your relationship you MAY qualify for legal aid in which case it may not cost you anything. I would look for recommendations for solicitors in your area and give them a call to find out what the hourly rate they charge is. Also don't be afraid to ask if they offer fixed fees as some family law solicitors do now. Here in Wales sometime CAFCASS will meet the costs of DNA testing which also helps reduce fees. Good luck.

I'm just thinking that if he does go to court I'm going to need a solicitor, the hv has already flagged it up to the local authority so when he goes to family court cafcass will get involved as there's been two incidents with kids in the house involving violence (he actually attacked my ex with a hammer whilst I was out and DS was in the house!) So they'll insist on supervised visits

Haven't spoke to CAB yet they're my next port of call

I'm in the North East Lincolnshire county, the gov website says that legal aid does cover domestic violence here but I thought it only applied if there was a conviction?

Thats a great idea, I actually have no idea why I didn't think of it, maybe because I've got myself in a bit of a state about this, he really can't be on his own with her, at one point I left for 10 mins to go to the shop when I got back the neighbour was waiting for me because he was screaming and shouting at the kids because they were crying, she was going to call the police if I hadn't got back soon, I told her she should have!

Instead of the CAB try contacting Women's Aid. They can offer you the support you need and will also be able to certify that you have sought their advice which will support any future application for legal aid. I am afraid I don't know of any legal aid providers on your area but again Womens Aid will likely be able to help.

I'll give them a ring now, always seem to be busy in the day bless them!