The case arose from an initial application by the father for a child arrangements order to spend time with A, a 4-year old boy, within proceedings a number of serious allegations had been made against him by the mother, the most serious being that of rape and of controlling and coercive behaviour, the facts being complicated by a reconciliation as a result of which now 2-year old twin girls B and C had been born. Following the findings sought being made, the matter has been adjourned for the preparation of a S.7 Report by CAFCASS.

Such reported decisions, particularly from the lower courts, which deal with issues of domestic abuse and the welfare impact on child arrangements on a daily basis, are vital in improving transparency of Family Court proceedings in England and Wales.

The matter was heard by District Judge Webb on 25th and 28th April, 8th and 9th June and 7th August 2023, with his reserved written judgment being given on 22nd August 2023.

The judgment can be found here.

Zoey is regularly instructed to represent clients in private law children proceedings. Her approach to these types of cases and her people skills make her particularly popular with nervous clients and in disputes of a sensitive nature.