What happens at a FHDRA?

[Bridge9484]

I've got a First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment coming up very soon. I'm the Respondent.

Ex is applying for contact which I believe should be supervised due to safety fears. Ex is very abusive, often in front of our child and has neglected our child in the past. I completed a C1A and provided additional information stating my concerns, previous social services involvement, police involvement, etc. I stated specific incidents where our child was neglected, and Ex denied them all which I expected. He has denied all abuse but has contradicted himself on 3 points in his statement. I have evidence but I realise that this appointment is not for that sort of thing.

Will I get chance to speak and point out these contradictions at this hearing? Do I provide this information in a formal document on the day as there is no time to post it? Will it be ensured that interim contact is in a safe environment? Our child is very young and wouldn't be safe in an unsupervised setting.

Before the hearing, CAFCASS will contact police and social services to get risk information. If these checks are not complete, the Court generally should not make an order if There's an indication of risk.

They will also contact both parents for a preliminary chat, so voice your concerns then.

At the hearing CAFCASS will talk to you both, try to see if any measure of agreement is possible, and then give a view to the court of What should happen next, in terms of interim arrangements, further evidence, reports etc.

You can raise the inconsistencies with CAFCASS and with the judge / magistrates if relevant.