M v F

M v F

M failed to prove on balance of probabilities that F sexually abused A, was emotionally abusive or coercively controlling towards M, or manipulated A or the maternal family. M's evidence lacked credibility, detail, and corroboration. No safeguarding reason exists to prevent A from having a full relationship with F; only welfare issue is F's alcohol consumption, which can be managed by undertaking.

Parties
Applicant: M; Respondent: F
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
29 October 2025
Procedural Posture
Children Act Proceedings / Fact Finding Hearing
Outcome
All allegations by M against F not proved; no safeguarding reason to restrict A's relationship with F.
Legal Topics
Domestic Abuse, Child Sexual Abuse Allegations, Coercive Control, Child Arrangements, Prohibited Steps Order
Family Law Domestic Abuse Child Sexual Abuse Allegations Coercive Control Child Arrangements Prohibited Steps Order

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Parties

M

Applicant

F

Respondent

Procedural Posture

Children Act Proceedings / Fact Finding Hearing

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether F sexually abused A
  2. 2 Whether F was emotionally abusive and manipulative towards A
  3. 3 Whether F was emotionally abusive and coercively controlling towards M

Ratio Decidendi

M failed to prove on balance of probabilities that F sexually abused A, was emotionally abusive or coercively controlling towards M, or manipulated A or the maternal family. M's evidence lacked credibility, detail, and corroboration. No safeguarding reason exists to prevent A from having a full relationship with F; only welfare issue is F's alcohol consumption, which can be managed by undertaking.

Court Disposition

All allegations by M against F not proved; no safeguarding reason to restrict A's relationship with F.

Orders

  • No findings of sexual abuse, emotional abuse, or coercive control against F.
  • Welfare issue of alcohol consumption to be managed by undertaking from F.