So this one is a curious and controversial one for me....I should start by saying I don’t have any children so I’m going off by what I have witnessed from others. My best friend had two children with her ex. They had an on-off relationship because he has a history of violence and drug use and even stole from her and her children. When she left him, he then took her to court over access because he wanted more access and the court settled in his favour! To this day, I still don’t see how a court can grant extra access to someone like that. On the flip side, I know someone who was together with their ex for 15 years and married for 10 years with a small child. The ex left him and in the divorce, the ex got the house, primary custody of their child, the car, part of his income and was making him pay large sums till the CSA stepped in. The ex still has made it difficult for him to have access at times and has at times, pursued him for money even though he pays every time through the CSA. My debate here is why do these situations appear to be resolved unfairly sometimes? I’m aware that some people abandon their child and don’t pay and that’s plainly wrong however equally, these people also seem to get away with it. Please discuss!
The courts try and do what's best for the child/children involved.
Usually they get other agencies involved for example Cafcas. They will write a report based on evidence they have. This will then be put before the court.
Child access cases are very often long process and cost a lot of money.
The courts see it as fathers have rights to see there child.
I have unfortunately been there as my ex is an abuser. My young son witnessed alot of the abuse.
He didn't see my son for over a year. He was charged with ABH.
He quickly moved on with his life and then decided he wanted my son 50/50.
Thankfully the courts ruled he only sees him once a fortnight and it has gradually gone to one over night.
I have nothing to do with my ex. But still worry about my son in his care as he doesnt give him set meal times or put him to bed at an appropriate time for his age and even shared a bed with him.
He also doesnt pay the CSA and has told them he has shared care when he doesnt.
It's a very difficult situation as the courts are not in the situation but often make the decision based on guidelines and rules.