Court report

Have had first hearing this morning for the children.  This was a directions appointment  to decide how we proceed from here.  She was represented by counsel, apparently because her  legal advisor (may not be a solicitor) wasn't sure what would happen today.  A little odd I think.

We were not granted a Welfare report or the testing for alcohol use, but she did acknowledge in court she uses alcohol (above the recommended level) and is on anti depressants.  The judge obviously was relying heavily on the Cafcass report, despite it saying nothing helpful to either side.  So anyone going through Cafcass be firm with them, don't wait to be asked.  A mistake on my part I now realise.

Statements to be submitted in 21 days and then hers 5 days later and then 1 day hearing sometime when we can be fitted in.  After 1st December apparently. 

So on we go.   She has asked me to leave the house and am being advised to sit tight, mainly to provide support for the children.  Not sure how much longer I can carry on with this, I guess it is possible that she may decide to leave or even come to the table to discuss this.  Don't expect this at all as she has walked out of Relate and Mediation.  It will be very messy and expensive while she continues not to work or try and help herself in any way.  Pretty sad really.