Family court first Hearing
The family court first hearing is usually known as a directions hearing. This focuses on providing instructions for the legal proceedings. During this hearing, the judge may instruct social services or CAFCASS to prepare a report. Additionally, both parties will be required to submit position statements. The family court first hearing is typically brief, lasting around half an hour. It can sometimes leave you feeling frustrated, especially after waiting for months with the hope of significant changes occurring during this initial stage.
What happens after the first court hearing
Subsequently, at the next hearing, you will have the opportunity to review the ordered report, commonly referred to as a section 7 report. This report serves as a compilation of information gathered from various sources, including input from all parties involved. It’s important to note that it may be tempting to suspect the professional of deliberate dishonesty in the report. However, it is crucial to remember that it is based on information obtained from multiple individuals. Those include your child’s teachers and other experts who have worked with them.
How to deal with inaccuracies in the report
To counter inaccuracies in reports ordered at the first family court hearing, it is advisable to follow a calm and rational approach. Here’s a suggested response:
- Begin by addressing specific inaccuracies in the report ordered at the first family court hearing. For example, if the report states that “X visited,” but you have evidence to prove otherwise, you can mention this discrepancy. Refer to the evidence by numbering it (e.g., A1, A2, A3) and provide a reference to the page relevant page. For instance, you can state, “The report says X visited. If you look at the evidence on page A6, you will see this is not so.”
- Emphasise your willingness to work cooperatively with professionals to move things forward positively for the child. Assure professionals that you are not disregarding their expertise and that your focus is on your child’s well-being.
- Request that the professional who wrote report, amends it to accurately reflect the history and circumstances surrounding your child. Stress the importance that they portray an accurate picture of the circumstances. This will ensure that during the family court hearings, the court makes decisions in the best interest of the child. For example, you can request, “However, I kindly request that the report be amended accordingly to accurately portray how things have been up until now for our child.”
conclusion
Remember to maintain a calm and composed tone in your responses. It is essential to demonstrate to the professionals that you are a reasonable and cooperative parent. Stay calm from the family court first hearing throughout to the end. This will show that you are someone professionals can trust with the care of the children. Reacting emotionally without supporting evidence may not be productive in addressing the inaccuracies in the report.
