If you’re on this forum, it’s likely because you’re in a tough situation and you’re a good enough parent to want to do something about it. Keep your head up, that’s the first piece of advice.
I can only give advice from my situation, which is far from over. But things are looking good so far and it’s been excruciatingly difficult and tiresome to keep it that way.
1. Never overreact, no matter how much you’re provoked. Keep a cool head always, and manage your stress levels
2. Seek legal advice if you can afford it. There are angles you may have missed, so consult a professional.
3. Don’t wait. File your c100, get the ball rolling as soon as you can. The longer you leave things, the worse they get. These things take time from start to finish, and you don’t want a bad status quo to be kept for any longer than it has to be.
4. ALWAYS record calls/screenshot conversations with the other party. You never know what evidence you might need, and you’d rather have it than not later down the line.
5. Be WELL prepared for any meetings with CAFCASS. Know your angles, points, etc. Write everything down and memorise it, but always remember to link every point back to what’s best for the child/children. Also remember to be as polite as you can, you need them on your side as much as possible.
6. Be honest. Don’t try and keep things from the court/CAFCASS. They will always find out, so I’ve heard from others.
7. Have a plan. What is the next hurdle, and the next one after that? Do your research, sift through the forums, read about other people’s experiences etc.
You’ve got this!
I can only give advice from my situation, which is far from over. But things are looking good so far and it’s been excruciatingly difficult and tiresome to keep it that way.
1. Never overreact, no matter how much you’re provoked. Keep a cool head always, and manage your stress levels
2. Seek legal advice if you can afford it. There are angles you may have missed, so consult a professional.
3. Don’t wait. File your c100, get the ball rolling as soon as you can. The longer you leave things, the worse they get. These things take time from start to finish, and you don’t want a bad status quo to be kept for any longer than it has to be.
4. ALWAYS record calls/screenshot conversations with the other party. You never know what evidence you might need, and you’d rather have it than not later down the line.
5. Be WELL prepared for any meetings with CAFCASS. Know your angles, points, etc. Write everything down and memorise it, but always remember to link every point back to what’s best for the child/children. Also remember to be as polite as you can, you need them on your side as much as possible.
6. Be honest. Don’t try and keep things from the court/CAFCASS. They will always find out, so I’ve heard from others.
7. Have a plan. What is the next hurdle, and the next one after that? Do your research, sift through the forums, read about other people’s experiences etc.
You’ve got this!
