Family law in the UK

[BritishDad]

Hi folks

I get the impression that most posts are from people in the USA. Does anyone have experience of dealing with family law in the UK, or more specifically in Scotland, which is where I am based? I would love to hear about experiences - as someone who may have to navigate the courts over custody issues, dealing with a 'high-conflict' ex?

Thanks in advance.

[livednlearned]

Hi BritishDad,

Welcome and hello  

US and UK laws are both based on common law, so while there are differences, a bunch of stuff is the same. And even in the US, things are different from state to state, so we usually encourage people to find out how things work where they live anyway.

We can help you think about big picture goals, strategies -- the tactics might be different and whatnot because of differences that play out locally. But even more important than all that is learning how to clear the FOG (fear obligation and guilt) that many of us bring with us to these situations. It's easy to self-sabotage when you have been conditioned to believe you are a bad person.

How far along are you with custody? Have you talked to a lawyer/solicitor yet?

[SES]

I'm in the UK.

I haven't managed to get as far as court yet... .despite separating almost 3 years ago.  I'm not sure what your situation is... but my advice is to protect yourself.  Audio recordings have proven invaluable in providing evidence of what actually happened in times of allegations made to the police.  Each milestone has come with an escalation in my wife's behaviour... .eg. selling the house, or the decree nisi.