Hello All,
Those of you who have read my previous posts will know, but here''s a quick idea of my case.
My ex left the family home almost 2 years ago now on an agreement to paying for 50% of the debts, and doing 50% of the childcare.
She since then dropped me in all the mess; 100% of the debts and about 80% of the childcare (I was seeing the kids 80% of the time).
When this didn''t suit her (nearly a year and a half later), she asked for half the tax credits, a joint residence order and half the child benefit. She asked for a joint residence order based on her 20% care of the kids, where she''d neglected at least 80% of the responsibilities.
I had a first hearing and despite the children''s adamant wishes for things to "remain the same" (80% with me), we were both sent to a Parenting Information Program, and the children asked to attend their mother''s home from Sunday morning to Wednesday morning. A full CAFCASS report was also requested.
Since then, the kids have been unhappy about going every week, and are forced to.
I was, (in the middle of trying to claim legal aid) then awarded both of the children''s tax credits claims, which means I probably can''t get legal aid.
My ex is now trying to "prove" her financial responsibility by paying for silly things like "half their swimming lessons" (about £20). Despite the fact I''ve been paying for
everything since Aug 2010 and taking them to every appointment/ school trip etc needed.
The children are coming home with long fingernails, dirty hair and filthy ears, not having done any homework or reading during term time and their mother spending most of her time seemingly asleep and the boys in front of the computer instead of spending "quality time with their mum".
My children are only 7 and 5. The 7 year old will be 8 in September.
I''m sorely worried I will be ignored and told to "go back to
mediation" despite her hugely abusive and terrible attitude.
I''m going to ask a solicitor for advice, but can anyone advise me here??
Thank you!