Huge court case coming up...and I'm helpless

LegacyUser

I'll leave out names and specific details.

Basically facing a huge custody court case soon. Had been approved for legal aid but now they've declined it due to my changing jobs and getting a slightly higher wage (I'm still fairly broke!)

Facing down a circuit court hearing alone, or else somehow putting the money together by loans from friends? Talking at least 6-7 thousand euro!

And I could still lose (I'm a dad looking to keep his son in Ireland, his mum who disappeared with him for over a year is now looking to go back with him)

All the "experts" say monthly visits are enough as our bond is so strong (how lovely).

I'm very scared and very upset. I love my son and I'm tired of being treated as second-best by this backward country.

Please someone out there please help

Ickle Magoo

Obviously we cannot offer legal advice nor financial help OP tho I hope you get some sage advice here - just shout if you think you think the posters in the Parenting Forum are better placed to offer you advice.

All the very best. :cool:

StillWaters

I think I remember your story. It was so unfair and heartbreaking for you. Apologies if you have not posted before.

I can't offer advice, and I can only hope that the Judge is sympathetic and empathetic, and takes the needs of the child as being primary.

Have you been in contact with Father's Right's Groups and have they advised you?

edellc

Take a deep breath and relax OP you will be okay, I have seen this process in operation and my god it makes me laugh, you are a loving and caring father and you want to see your son

I watched what happened with my sister and her ex partner who was a right scumbag who sold dodgy cars, drove without tax and insurance all the time with the kid in the car, while also intoxicated and high on drugs and guess what the judge gave him weekly access, unsupervised what a joke especially when he didnt give a crap about the child he just wanted control over my sister and threatened her constantly with the fear of abducting the child so much so she stayed for every visit and he never played or paid any attention to the child just wanted her back, half the time he didnt turn up either, this is the joke of our family courts

you dont need a fancy solicitor, just speak from the judge from your heart tell him how you care and how you want to be a full time dad not a once a month one, that moving your son to another jurisdiction is not the best thing for your child and although you and his mother are no longer together you should both still be equal parents in your childs life

best of luck with it all op and please let up know of the outcome