Advice needed.
My ex and I split up about 11 years ago and he has generally maintained contact with our two children now 13 and 12 to every other weekend.
DC and I moved over a year ago 40 minutes from previous home. DC stayed at current school during this year but journey is taking a signifcant toll (40 minutes to school bus stop and then 30 minutes plus to school on bus)
DC asked to look at local schools now they are settled and making friendships in the area. Have asked Ex on numerous occasions to engage in conversation but consistently shut down.
EX refuses to consent to school change and is now seeking legal advice to request 50/50 child arrangements so he and his gf can help with school runs. DC do not want to change day to day living arrangements nor continue with long school journeys. Ex lives abour 35/40 minutes to DC school and moved out the area 4/5 years ago.
Im concerned mediation and Specific issue order will take a long time when eldest will be choosing options soon. Also wondering if the childrens voices will be heard as Ex does not believe they should be taken into account as they are children.