interested for a friend access hearing

[NeverKnowinglyUnderstood]

family court problems with access.
parent a hasn't see child for nearly a year
hearing next week
caffcass (sp?) have been involved

how long will it take.. will it be likely that more than one hearing or decision based on the info that day

any ideas

Well you havent really given enough info for anyone to be able to answer your questions.

It depends on the type of hearing and whether it is a review or contested final hearing.

Why hasn't the parent seen the child?

the parent hasn't seen the child as access has been denied on arranged dates.

sorry for being vague, it is so close to the hearing I don't want anyone to recognise themselves. My friend is the dad who has been refused access.

Well his solicitor will be able to advise him what should happen and how long it might take. Tell him to ask them.

Ah ive just realised he doesnt know you are asking so you arent asking on his behalf. Why are you asking?

I am asking as I don't want to go down the pom pom route of Yay you will be able to see your child soon if in reality it could still take alot of time.

Surely you wouldnt be doing that til he told you it was happening

ok ok I will go away.. I have been totally straight.. no hidden agenda
I just wanted to get it right..

At a guess, you've met a new bloke who hasn't seen his child for a year ? The reasons WHY he hasn't seen that child are very relevant when considering how long the process may take. Has there been any violence or abuse ? Has he been through mediation ? What has his solicitor told him ? How big a discrepancy is there between what he wants in terms of contact and what his Ex wants?