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Hello all. Sick with worry right now and need some 'real' and honest advice.
My ex-wife's latest relationship has ended which has left her emotionally raw. We have great shared access agreement with our 2 young kids (they live with her as she is closer to their school and she doesn't work and I usually have them at least 10 nights a month), but my ex has decided that she has too many bad memories in this area and is going to move away, uprooting the kids, to be closer to her friends for emotional support.
Sadly, the friends in question are not a great influence, and my ex suffers from depression and regularly takes anti-depressants, alcohol, drugs and smokes and is consequently not emotionally in a great place right now with the split as well.
I don't want a hellish custody fight as my kids need their mum too, but my ex is not taking sound advice from anyone and I really don't know what the best way forward is.
Anyone know or suggest what I can do? Where's best for free advice, both on the welfare and rights of the kids not to be uprooted on a 'whim', and for me to get free legal advice as to whether I can at least put a temporary hold on her moving until some rational thinking or medical help has happened?
Thanks
Hi there,
It might be a good idea to go for mediation, this would give you the chance to discuss your concerns for the children with your ex, and with the guidance of the mediator come to an agreement.
Free advice you can get from the CAB, and there are branch meetings of Families Need Fathers charity that you could attend for advice and support. Some solicitors also offer free initial consultations that you could take advantage of.
Here's a link to the mediation service. www.nfm.org.uk
There is a charge for using this service but you might be eligible for legal aid and you can check that here
www.gov.uk/check-legal-aid
Here's a link to the webpage where you will find details of the FNF meetings in your area
www.fnf.org.uk/help-and-support/local-branch-meetings
If mediation isn't successful you can go to court for a Prohibited Steps Order to prevent her from uprooting the children,although it might stop her short term if she isn't leaving the country the court might well uphold her decision to move in the end.
Try and resolve this without court, it can be very damaging to the relationship between separated parents which in turn makes it more difficult for the children.
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