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Parenting

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Sole Residency

2 replies

DadWithQuestions · 02/09/2013 03:34

Hi,
I have recently been awarded Sole Residency of my 14 yr old Son. I live in Scotland (although English) and have been traveling back and forth to the English south coast for court appearances. This was due to my son being born there as well as I was married and divorced there, and my Ex still lives there now.
My Ex Wife fought me every step of the way during our court case (thanks to "Legal Aid") but fortunately my 2nd wife (and last as she's a keeper) supported me throughout. My son was enduring some disgusting behaviour from his own mother and partner, and it felt like I was powerless to help him. She has anger management issues and a mouth like a sewer. Her Partner has previously held my son by his throat whilst shouting in his face. The Police where immediately contacted and visited the home. Without telling every detail of every event - this is just a taste of my Son's maternal home. Fortunately the CafCass officer (social services) were able to see through all of her lies and saw her for her true horrible self.
As I mentioned earlier I am now pleased to say I have kept my cool and have been awarded Sole Residency. My son is now living with me and my family in Scotland and not merely visiting - I can honestly say he's walking around with a smile on his face, which makes all the expense "worth it".

I have a few questions - If my ex wanted to overturn the court order would she have to do it through the English courts or Scottish as my son is now resident up here?
Secondly Part of the court order ridiculously states that i have to finance my son's travel to visit his mum, and as parents we both have to agree on dates and flight times for her access. As you can probably imagine I'm not her favourite person to be talking to, and my every suggestion is flatly rejected. What can I do, I don't want to give her any grounds to be able to take me back to court for not obeying the court order.
Finally - If my ex wife continues to behave like I have previously mentioned, can I force her to return him to his loving home in Scotland?

My son's happiness and well being is my priority, but I know he also needs to have a relationship with his mother.

OP posts:
mummyxtwo · 02/09/2013 07:51

Firstly well done on keeping your cool and managing to get your son successfully moved up to you - what a difficult situation, and clearly one that he needed to be out of. I can't offer much useful advice though, sorry. My dbil has had a lot of dealings with the courts regarding access to his children, and a very unreasonable ex. Do you have a social worker or CafCass officer who you can contact to ask these things? They won't mind giving advice I'm sure, and it might just be helpful to have your concerns recorded, in the event of your ex being difficult in the future. Maybe a social worker could liaise with your ex on your behalf, and find some dates that would work for both of you. Hope you can find a solution.

HPsauceonbaconbuttiesmmm · 02/09/2013 08:57

Hi OP. No experience but itu may want to repost in the legal matters section.

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