Background:
The Father had not seen the child for over a year following the parties’ separation. The Mother was not opposed to contact.
The Father’s position was unrealistic. He wanted the young child to instantly have overnight contact with him, despite the amount of time lapsed and lack of familiarity between him and the child.
The Mother’s proposal remained the same throughout and offered a gradual reintroduction to contact. The Father refused to accept this proposal.
A First Hearing and Dispute Resolution Appointment was listed.
Key Issues:
- The matter was listed in the magistrates court before a legal advisor sitting with a Cafcass officer. This meant that the only orders that could be made were case management directions and orders made by consent.
- The parties were so far apart in their positions, it did not seem as though a consent order would be reached.
- The Father was self-represented.
Discussions:
In discussions with the Father, I explained the Mother’s gradual proposal which was entirely reasonable and allowed contact to start immediately, progressing to overnight contact when the child was ready.
Agreement:
An agreement was able to be reached between the parties that set out how contact will progress in the future and both parties were happy with this.
The terms of the agreement were presented to the court. The order was approved.
Being able to settle the matter at the first hearing has saved both parties time and money whilst limiting the disruption to the child.
For assistance with private children matters, contact clerks@anvilchambers.co.uk