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Hello
I have my first hearing next month, and I wondered what happens etc at a first hearing
I have recently had an email sent by cafcass on which I registered for this online email account.
I'm going to represent myself , opting to use my solicitor for advice and a mckenzie friend ( when I find one )
Hi there,
The first hearing is generally just a bit of fact finding, the judge will ask you to explain why you applied to court if you applied or he will ask your ex if she did, you will get chance to explain all of the issues and go through what you hope to achieve from the courts.
It seems a lot more stressful than it actually is, it's daunting but when you get in the court room your nerves will settle abattoir will be fine. If you have any questions on the day just ask when you check in and they will explain everything for you.
Best advice is take a book and a drink, as youbcould be sitting around for a while. I used to arrive early so I could be sat waiting before my ex arrived, for me it felt better than walking in and being watched while I decided where to sit.
GTTS
There are some useful videos about the hearings, you'll find them in the sticky situation at the top of the legal eagle section...they might give you a flavour of what to expect.
There's also a good book/kindle that you can get, it's written by Lucy Reed, who's a family law solicitor. I think the book's called Family court without a lawyer but I'll check that...anyway it's a very useful book and can help steer you through the processes and procedures of court.
I'm sure Yoda will be on soon to point you in the right direction as far as a McKenzie Friend.
All,the best
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