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Parenting

For free parenting resources please check out the Early Years Alliance's Family Corner.

Family Courts Issue

7 replies

AnonPost0320 · 11/03/2020 14:18

Hi All, first time poster here. Smile

I have a complex issue and looking for some advice. Unfortunately legal representation isn't affordable so representing myself.

My son who is almost 6 had contact with dad following a childs arrangments order that was made a couple of years ago. This order was made due to dad assaulting his ex partner xmas eve where the kids were. He has a 5 yr restraining order and did community service.

Since then, his older daughter who is aged 12 has told a teacher she is scared of him and no longer wants to see him anymore. She had been self harming due emotional abuse caused by him and is having councelling. She has re-iterated this to social services. It has also been noted that dad often shouts at current partner by both children. This is ared flags to me like it is heading down the same route as the previous abusive relationship.

Obviously my son isn't the victim here but I called SS myself to seek advise and they told me to safeguard. No assessment was carried out.
Dad took me to court yesterday to enforce the court order.
I have to issue a statement now to prove my reasonings for breaching said court order as cafcass do not think there are any safeguarding concerns.
I am hoping for in-direct contact as I really don't want my child heading down the same road but really need some guidance.

TIA AnonPost x

OP posts:
User1775564212 · 11/03/2020 14:21

Can you get a free hour with a solicitor? If he was violent to you you can get legal aid.
In my experience CAFCASS are shit but the court takes their word as gospel so you need to get them on side.

AnonPost0320 · 11/03/2020 14:22

Thanks, he wasn't physically violent to me so there's no police evidence to entitle me to legal aid. Yes agree with you. They seem onside on the phone but their final letters are very contradicting.

OP posts:
AnonPost0320 · 11/03/2020 14:23

I am finding with the free legal advise they are only informing me on what to expect when in court and not actually giving me something solid

OP posts:
Windyatthebeach · 11/03/2020 14:26

Highlight anything in the report you know is untrue. Bring it to their attention in court..
I unpicked Cafcass final report and exh lost.
I had legal representation but spotted the error myself...
Cafcass take the stand and can be cross examined by you /your solicitor.
Go through it with a friend. Stage a court and speak like you will - take the edge off your nerves...

Starlight456 · 11/03/2020 14:30

I would at least talk to a solicitor. Dispute every point .

Is he asking just about Ds or Dd aswell?

12 year old should be listened too. Get as much independent evidence as possible.

AnonPost0320 · 11/03/2020 14:32

The 12 YR old isn't my DD but half sister to my DS. He has filed for both though, DD mum due in court next month but I have submit my statement within 2 weeks

OP posts:
Starlight456 · 11/03/2020 23:09

I would even pay for an hour legal advice even if you can’t afford court.

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