After two years of endless paperwork, court hearings and delays, we’re pleased to say that Mark* can finally see his child.
We first met Mark when a court Legal Advisor introduced him to our team. Here, Mark shares how he overcame many obstacles:
‘Hopefully, others will learn from my story and turn to CASS+ for support:
First obstacle
Firstly, I could not afford a solicitor. On top of this, I wasn’t eligible for Legal Aid. Thankfully, this was overcome with the support of CASS+. Most importantly, they reviewed my papers and supported me through court. As a result, my expenses were kept to a minimum and I got through this without a solicitor. Ultimately, I saved thousands of pounds.
Second obstacle
My ex breached the court orders about 10 times. I didn’t know where to turn. In the end, CASS+ enabled me to get access to my son.
Third obstacle
An unfounded non-molestation order caused further distress and expensive delays. Alas, I was forced into a situation where I had to prove that I had done nothing wrong. Social media is toxic and causes so much distress. I would never do anything like that.
Fourth obstacle
Sadly, the Cafcass report took about eight months. Finally, it came through. I felt so relieved to see my child in a contact centre with their supervision.
Anger at court does not help
Emotions run very high when you fear you may never see your child again. In court, it’s easy to get angry. However, CASS+ advised me to stay calm. As a result, we had a positive outcome.
They showed me that I just needed to be 100% honest and 100% me in court.
Feelings of powerlessness
I felt so powerless going through the legal system. Emma encouraged me to keep going whenever I wanted to give up. I felt strong with their support – I was able to believe in myself.
Obstacles overcome
Ultimately, I may not be seeing my son if I had not had their help. I would have been too exhausted to continue. I don’t think I would have made it through without the help of CASS+.
Advice for others in this situation
I didn’t have a solicitor, but I did have CASS+. Although they didn’t give legal advice, they helped me write my statement. Also, they kept in touch and enabled me to remain positive. I strongly recommend that you get their support if you are going through court in Devon or Cornwall.
Having someone by my side made all the difference. They reviewed my papers, supported me in court, explained what was happening, and gave me the strength to keep going.’
Find out more here.
Watch the film here.
Do you need support through court in Devon or Cornwall?
If you’re facing a similar situation, you don’t have to go through it alone.
We have offices inside the courts in Exeter, Newton Abbot, Plymouth, Bodmin and Truro. Find your local hub here.
Or, fill in the self-referral form for family court here.
*Name changed to protect identity