As a mother representing yourself in family court, your journey is not just a legal process; it’s a mission to protect the well-being and future of your children. In this endeavour, a fundamental piece of legislation can be your guiding light – The Children’s Act 2004. This comprehensive legislation defines the legal framework for child […]
First Steps into Family Law within the European Union
Fathers Rights – Have they got it wrong?
Sadly, only a few people have contacted me through this site. The surprise is that they have all been men. Instead of mothers reaching out in the spirit of sisterhood, it’s dads emailing their stories to me. Though it’s only a few, there’s a definite common theme— a lack of fathers rights. In all of […]
Parental Responsibility – not as scary as it sounds
What is Parental Responsibility? If your child was born after 1st December 2003, you weren’t married to your ex and he’s not on the birth certificate, he can apply to the court for Parental Responsibility. Legally defined parental responsibility (PR) means, “all the rights, duties, powers, responsibilities and authority which by law a parent of […]
Court Orders – What are they and what do they mean?
In family proceedings the court’s decision will be in the form of a Order. Court Orders are mandatory instructions from the court that you must abide by. In most cases, it’s the parents of the child who make an application to the court for an Order. However, the Children’s Act does allow for someone other […]
The Welfare Checklist
What is ‘The Welfare Checklist’? The Welfare Checklist is a list of 7 criteria that the courts use when making decisions during family law proceedings. It can be found fully in section one of the Children’s Act 1989: The ascertainable wishes and feelings of the child – in light of their age and understanding. The […]
Contact—Whose right is it anyway?
At family court, disagreements over contact are common. Representing yourself can be made easier by accepting, every child has the right to a relationship with both parents—so long as it doesn’t bring them harm. It isn’t about what’s best for you or what’s best for your ex. As difficult as it may be, a contact case […]
