What to expect at the first hearing (FDA). Panicking !!

[user1467480231]

What can I expect during the first hearing? I understand it's only about 20 mins long? Weird question, but what shall I wear? How should I act? Do I talk to the bastard ex? HELP!!!

I had mine July. The court hearing was 10.00 am. We were taken in at about 1,30 pm. You sit in a room with your legal team.. Your barrister will negotiate with his barrister during waiting time. My case is complicated and so there was much negotiation.

When we were called into court, I did have to walk past the ex. We didn't make eye contact as we don't speak. Everything is v hurried.

I wore a simple smart navy dress, sheer natural tights, navy shoes, navy handbag. Dress smartly but a little sombre. Hope this helps.

I had mine in July too. Hearing was at 2, told to get there an hour before so negotiations could start. I sat with my solicitor and barrister in one room, ex was elsewhere with his. We were there until gone 5 as our hearing was last in the end as they reordered all the hearings on the day.

I wore trousers and a top. Ex wore jeans.

Dress as yourself. If you do a suit-wearing job, wear a suit. If you're a SAHP wear something without visible gunk, if you can. Jeans are fine, just be clean, reasonably tidy, covered up (plz no bare midriffs) and no dodgy slogans.

Take snacks and drinks, many courts are as kind to foragers as the Sahara. Take a book as there can be a lot of hanging around.

The allocated time is no guide, the court will list several hearings at 10.00am and the ushers make the advocates dance the dance of pleading to get in (Or stay out).

And no, you won't talk to each other. Unless you want to.

I had mine and wore see attached with a black jacket. I wanted to look as if I was coping but not over confident so went for flat shoes.
Like you the thought was terrifying but the actual reality was fine. The legal team you have should help you feel at ease. I sat in the waiting room with him but didn’t speak.
Are you happy with what you are asking for that’s the main thing to consider..... that in itself will give you confidence.
I was pleased to settle in court because that means the outcome has to be adhered to unlike if you make an agreement out of court your ex could change his mind at any time. It gives you certainty that the outcome will give you stability
Good luck