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Hi all, I work intermittently, am paid a small retainer, and then a day rate. Meaning my salary varies a lot. In the past the CMS would balance things up after receiving a P40, and assessing the yearly income declaration. I stupidly put in the declaration last year that the day rate I received is a benefit. And they went for unpaid child maintenance of that amount. They wouldn't listen, have made an incorrect calculation (as they are allowed to do under their regs) and have given me arrears of £6000 for money that I haven't earned.
I did a mandatory reconsideration, this was refused, and am now taking them to court, and have a (virtual) hearing in the next couple of months. I have to declare to the court in the next 10 days any representation I may have.
I am inexperienced in legal matters, want the expertise of a solicitor, but know there are horror stories of people having used them so am please asking for recommendations and or advice here...
Many thanks in advance for any advice I receive.
Cheers
I can't help with a solicitor but there are helpful guides online to representing yourself in court. Thejusticegap.com has a guide produced by the The Bar Council and advicenow.org.uk has several on specific and general issues. Good luck!
If you are still after a solicitor, then I would suggest you pop along to your local Families Need Fathers meeting - hopefully you'd be able to get personal recommendations for local solicitors from dads who have used them.
There is a group in Facebook (CSA ripoff) with a lot of information of what to do. I think it is not worth it to hire a solicitor.
yes CMS support group is very helpful. I am also a member. can check it out: https://www.facebook.com/groups/239699060076601
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