Family Law
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Hello
Welcome to Just Answer
I am a Solicitor and will assist you.
Please may I ask:
- how old are your children?
- are there any previous court orders?
- is it just a letter that you have received or is there a date for the court appointment?
kind regards
Caroline
Thank you for your response.
7 years is a very long time give your childrens young ages.
It is very understandable that you dont trust him given his lack of previous commitment to the children and you are of course right to be worried about the emotional well being of your children as thier father cannot simply walk in and out of their lives as and when he pleases.
If you have only received a letter so far telling you that it is intended that he will make an application to court then I woould not worry. The father can my all means make an application to court but this isnt about what he wants but what is in the best interests of the children and that will be the courts main focus should he make an application to spend time with your children.
Before the father can make an application to the court he does have to refer to family mediation. It is worth engaging in family mediation and explaining your concerns.
If mediation cant reach agreement and he does apply to court then the court will be concerned that 7 years is a long time and that your children do not know him. The court will expect the father to demonstrate a level of commitment and in reality they are only likely to order indirect contact for a period of time so that the father can demonstrate his commitment and also so that the court can assess how your children respond to the same.
I would not worry but be confident to tell the court your worries and the court will listen and make sure that any order made is in the best interests of your children.
Positive feedback is gratefully received.