Judge went against cafcas

[RoseSloth]

I’ve been the primary carer of my children with Dad working full time and long hours to eventually have an affair a leave. We’ve gradually increased contact, he’s taken me to court with numerous serious allegations. This resulted in a Cafcass report saying there was no grounds on his allegations and he was unbalanced and could cause mental health issues for our boys. We went to court and judge supported Cafcas recommendation. Dad then took us to a final hearing to fight Cafcas, who changed there mind and said we could keep current arrangement or change over time would be too much for the boys in one go. This new judge decided to ignore Cafcas and rule 50/50. Starting in 4 weeks. I’ve told my children in a positive way but they are distraught, so have sought for advice on how to support them. Is there anything I can do. This judge had banned court cases for 3 years, even though it was always my ex taking me to court not me. Do I have any options, I’ve asked the school to help support the boys in this transition. Thank you

How old are your DC?

I knew someone whose ex-H kept taking her to court to get entire custody of their DC although he was neglectful and abusive (emotionally and physically) when he had any care of his DC. Once the DC we’re in early adolescence-age 12 or so - their wishes were taken into account.

Also they had a court guardian so their interests were represented in the endless hearings the ex-H forced on my friend.

She found that a 3 year ban on him starting another hearing was a blessed relief even though the access and care order was not exactly what she had wanted.

Gosh it’s so awful the system doesn’t work. They are 6 and 7 so in my opinion so little. When they met with cafcas they said if things changed it went to a huge worry to enormous, judge said at this age he doesn’t give weight to there feelings and best to rip it off with a stick plaster!!??