Hi
So I'm looking for some advice on what I can do to see my son.
I split with my ex 5 weeks ago and I haven't seen my son in 4 weeks every time I make contact with my ex to see my son I just get back from her that she will let me know if I can get him or I just don't hear anything back I'm totally frustrated with this now. I pay for my son direct into her bank evey week but she's not giving me any contact with my son is there some way she can be forced to give me contact with him what do you do in this situation ? Any advice would be great thanks.
Regards
Paul
Hi Paul
Unfortunately paying maintenance and seeing your child are two separate issues and one isn't dependent on the other.
Your first step would be mediation, this is mandatory before court action can be taken...court being the last resort. There is a charge for mediation unless you are on benefits or a low wage. If only your ex is on benefits then you would get the first session free.
If mediation is unsuccessful, or she refuses to attend, the mediator will sign the C100 form to enable you to apply for a Child Arrangements Order for contact from the family court.
Here's a link to the mediation service
www.nfm.org.uk
Hi thanks for getting back to me. There is no chance she will go to mediation she will refuse anything like this. Also I live in Scotland is the law the same in Scotland ?
Could I maybe go to a solicitor would they be able to help me ?
Regards Paul
...the laws are different in Scotland and I don't believe mediation is compulsory. Legal Aid is still available in Scotland too, if you are eligible. So it might be the case that you will be entitled to it to cover solicitors fees.
Good luck