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So my ex was offered a fact finding at the first hearing to address her DV allegations but she refused, so judge ordered a section 7.
- can a fact finding still happen after a section 7? I simply can't afford to do one. Barristers are expensive.
- I know each case is different, but those of you with DV allegations over you, what kind of questions might be fired at me?
- tips on how I can be child centric
- I have two glowing referral statements from the contact centre and the parenting course I went on. Worth mentioning?
The contact centre describe me as a "loving father who encourages and nurtures his son". Also they describe me as shy and very polite to all staff. They say that they have no concerns between me and my son.
Worth mentioning? Or shall I save it to use to counter the report
Hi,
I think (might be wrong) it is down to the judge if a fact finding hearing is needed, depending on the severity of the allegations and how they would affect the final ruling. Once the stage for a fact finding hearing has passed, it cannot be revisited again unless there are fresh and serious allegations.
The cafcass officer's report can influence the outcome, important to be on their good side although still challengeable with good evidences. Be polite, on time, stick to the question asked, no eye for an eye with your ex, remain positive and be sensitive to your ex's feelings and opinions and be mindful that the child is also hurting. Also would say do a lot of research on the internet about s7 reports.
The contact centre report should not contain any opinion on you as it is subjective. Do mention the parenting course and contact centre reports, the cafcass officer should be provided with copies, mainly to show that you are willing to take steps to address any concerns for your child's welfare. On the hearing day, the other side as well as the judge should be provided with a copies of the reports.
Goodluck
I'm with half oyster, it's the judges decision whether an FOF is required... He may have put it to her to make her think twice and by her backing off it has taken the wind out of her DV sails! The judge must have felt that regardless of her allegations one was not needed otherwise he would have ordered one.
A section 7 is quite an in depth report, try not to think of yourself as being under fire when dealing with the reporting officer. Just be open and honest and steer clear of showing any negative opinions of the mother....if she's a good mum then say so, express your hopes that at some point in the future that you can both put the past behind you for the sake of your child and work together in his best interests.
When talking about what contact you would like, instead of saying I want, say I think it would be best for xxxx to have me as involved in his life as I can be....I would like him to feel safe and secure and achieving that means that he has consistent, quality time with me. Talk about your role as his main carer before you split up.
When asked a question take your time, take a minute to think about your answer and respond in a calm and measured way.
Definitely show the statements from the contact centre and parenting course. Have you been asked to submit a statement to court? If so I would make comment about them and attach them to the statement , thus insuring that they are on file and can be used as evidence in court.
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