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My daughter was born 4 years ago, myself and her mother separated after 6 months of her birth. Throughout I have tried to keep things civil for the sake of all involved and I have had my daughter almost every weekend except when her mother chooses not to allow me. Over the years she has picked and chosen when I can and when I cannot have access and recently since I have met a new partner she has stopped me seeing her completely. I have tried mediation which she wont attend and now have no choice but to pursue a resolution through the court. I have recently been declined for legal aid so I am now left to represent myself. I don't have a problem with this concept however I have no idea where to start, any advice would be very welcome.
Thanks.
Hi Hurdman and welcome to the forum.
I don't know if you've read them yet, but Yoji has done a couple of excellent guides on representing yourself in court - they are sticky topics so appear as the top couple of topics in this legal eagle section, they are definitely the best place to start. Since you don't have a solicitor, you can also ask the CCLC (Childrens Legal Centre) for help, either post a question on here and we'll ask them to pop by with advice to specific questions, or give them a call - there is a link to them at the bottom right of the website page.
As a starter, you say you've tried to keep things civil, which is excellent, but you need to keep doing this - don't give your ex anything at all she can use against you in court. Also, keep a diary of all events, correspondence and converstations. It may be worth one last attempt (in writing) to say that you'd like to try mediation, failing which you will be seeking a contact order through the courts - it may just persuade her to start talking, but if not, you then have evidence for the court that you have attempted mediation.
Hi Hurdman,
Yes definately have a read of the sticky. I would also say you should try and convince your ex one last time of mediation or a chat to get contact resumed immediately.
You also need to be very wary in terms of remembering that your ex may comply and be playing party to the "saying what you want to hear" but in a good portion of cases that i am familiar with, will actually continue to withhold contact.
Court as always should be a last resort. But one such reason i post about using the Courts so regularly on here and in advice i give out is very often... parents are beyond talk.
If you get stuck on any particulars on the C100, feel free to post back and we can all help 🙂
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