Hi, What could be considered reasonable fees for mediation and a solicitor to get access to my kids? (ideally looking at 50/50 shared care, though tricky as kids in another town and Ex really awkward about everything).
If I get a court order for the usual every other weekend and half holidays, what happens if I go to see my kids and she doesnt allow me access just to be awkward? Can I call the police? or who can I call? or notify? I suppose I will need evidence of non-cooperation. Shes brainwashing/ alienating the kids from me, so what if kids say they dont feel going with me despite what the court have decided?
Has anyone dealt with these kinds of problems and how did they address them?
I'm very sorry you find yourself in this position. Mediation is about £100 I believe. You can find a mediator at The Family Mediators Assoc - thefma.co.uk
You can complete a C100 yourself to apply for contact with the children. There is a guide to this process on advicenow.org.uk You could do some research and decide whether you need a solicitor at this stage or perhaps wait until later. If ex doesn't comply with the court order defining contact, then you can apply to have it enforced. The court will usually ask CAFCASS to do a report and their recommendation is usually adopted. If the children are older their views will be taken into account. It could be a long road but don't give up
@Champagne, Thanks so much for your reply. Just wondered if you had any advice on how to get 50/50 custody if ex lives in another town, given schooling and dropoffs etc would be complicating factors.
Have any other members managed to get 50/50 custody despite being in different towns? How did you manage it.
For 50/50 shared contact, you'll need to show how it will work. Will the school runs be feasible or add too much to the school day. It has to be child focused so if the logistics don't work well for them, it will be hard to get 50/50. You can ask for weekends, shared holidays, alternate Christmas etc. You will have to consider very carefully if you feel that 50/50 will work for the children.
Hi Its good that you're starting mediation but don't lose the date for the court hearing in case mediation stops and you have to start the process again. I'm not familiar with the CMS calculations so suggest you post your question on the forum and someone more knowledgable than me will be able to answer.