Family courts

[terrifieddad]

Having been acquitted in December, I am now about to have to live through the allegations yet again. My estranged wife has petitioned for divorce, citing the alleged rapes of which I was found not guilty. I understand she is also to apply for a court order in respect of the children and her solicitors (biggest firm in the area) have requested that all future correspondence be conducted through them.

Legal aid is not available in such matters (except for her as the alleged victim of abuse) and there is no way I can afford legal advice.

My first worry is can the findings of the family court be considered "new and compelling evidence" sufficient to circumvent double jeopardy and cause a retrial?
Secondly, does anyone have sufficient experience in such matters to be able to rate my chances of getting access to my children?

[Rights Fighter]

The "standard of proof" in family courts is much lower than in the criminal courts. (Personally, the standard of proof in criminal courts in sex cases is low - but that's another story)

"Findings" in the family court can't cause your case to be retried in the criminal courts.

Roughly where in the UK would the family court hearing take place? There are some free family law clinics in the UK

[terrifieddad]

The hearing is likely to be in the same city as the trial (Liverpool, for reasons best known to court authorities), however all parties involved are based in Greater Manchester.

[Rights Fighter]

Either of these might be helpful



Nigel Priestly at http://ridleyhall.co.uk



Brendan Fleming at http://www.brendanfleming.co.uk

For a quick telephone call for advice.

Also

https://www.lawworks.org.uk/legal-advice-not-profits

https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/law/liverpool-law-clinic/

https://www.lawworks.org.uk/legal-ad...linic-near-you

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/...l-help-8026986

http://www.blackburnehouse.co.uk/?ne...-advice-clinic