Notice of Hearing - Can't Attend

Hi,

I have had to take the step of becomming an LIP in my application for a residence order against my ex. She has alcohol and violence issues - the children are with me (2 and 7).

Her soliciotrs have served me with a notice of hearing for this Thursday (served on Saturday) for a breach of contact i.e. my daughter refuses to talk on the phone to her mother.

My question is - I can't get time off work to attend the hearing - is this enough notice and can I request an adjournment - if so, how?

There is a date alreday set for a Directions hearing on 12 Dec.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,

E.

First thing you need to do is ring the court and speak to the administration department. They are usually friendly and helpful and will be able to tell you what to do.

As an LIP you need to speak to them regularly and you'll find they'll guide you through the paperwork and procedures even if they can't give you advice.

T

Thank you.

Tried that. Asked for an adjournemnt - that was rejected and so now I have to make an excuse to get off work now and then again on the 2nd Dec while my ex drinks herself stupid, gets legal aid and makes me feel like a criminal for trying to protect the kids from her...

Oh well....I'll turn up and hope for the best...but it hardly seems fair...

E.

Whatever happened to the right to a fair hearing...whist I respect this involves child issues and requires urgency...this type of scenario beggars belief of the 3 n 4 month long waits others are being subjected to regards child contact issues.

I do so hope someone here can give you options open to you eafster.

Elle x

Hi Elle,

Thank you...I've got my fingers crossed but I don't hold out much hope...I'm a little disillusioned...and feeling a little bit bullied by the ex's lawyers....and after the beatings my ex used to give me (yup I'm the victim - which isn't recognised ether by the Courts at the moment!) whilst she was drunk its not sitting at all well at the moment but hey ho...I just want my kids safe, happy and enjoying life as kids...

Thanks though

E

Eafster,

Hang in there, you are so not alone...hard as it is keep rising above the bully tactics, stay firm and professional and keep your rants and emotions for where you are safe...many here will respect you do that, some will think you dont...who cares as long as in the end you do the best by your children with what you have at the time...good luck and please let us know how it goes.

Elle x