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After 10 months and a relatively straight forward path to a final hearing I have, in the words of the magistrate, "won". To be fair though the winner in this was my son. The order determined my son lives with me on alternate long weekends (Friday to Monday), one weekly mid week overnighter, split school hols and shared residence. This instead of the ex's attempt to limit me to one night per fortnight.
Its worth saying that having a good barrister probably did help and that its so important to have a measured, child focused witness statement. The ex's by comparison was basically a character assassination which you could tell put her on a poor footing with the magistrate from the start. Despite your thoughts to the contrary do everything you can to say how good a parent the resident parent is and avoid a written slanging match and you wont go far wrong. As my barrister said its not a case of being the most reasonable rather proving that you are the least unreasonable.
Thanks to those who have given me advise on here and the very best of luck to all those still embroiled in trying to do right by their kids. Please never give up hope.
Jim31043
A day of victory for US alienated fathers. I am sure you walked out of court with a nice bounce in your step... Just as I did early this week knowing that the court placed an order that understands the value of a father in the childs life.
You are correct in saying it isnt that you 'won' the winner in this is always the chid.
Good luck and enjoy your special times with your son π
That's great news and thank you for your insightful comments....being calm and reasonable and avoiding any derogatory comments about the other parent is key, as well as keeping the child central to everything.
Our success stories really do help our members see the light in what can often be a very dark tunnel. Thank you
Good result, and very sound advice by your barrister π
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