A (A Child) (Fact Finding Hearing), Re

A (A Child) (Fact Finding Hearing), Re

The Court found S and the PGM were domestically abusive to B, both verbally and physically, in a controlling and coercive manner. S's allegations of neglect against B were not substantiated and were found to be strategic. The evidence supported B's account of abuse and threats, while S and the PGM's accounts were unreliable and minimised their conduct. No finding was made against B regarding physical abuse or neglect towards A, and allegations of B entering the relationship under false pretences were not proven.

Parties
Applicant: S; Respondent: B; Intervener: The PGM
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
09 March 2025
Procedural Posture
Child Arrangements / Fact Finding Hearing / Judgment After 5 Day Fact Finding Hearing
Outcome
Findings of domestic abuse and controlling behaviour against S and the PGM; allegations of neglect and physical abuse against B not proven.
Legal Topics
Domestic Abuse, Child Arrangements, Fact Finding, Coercive Control, Neglect, Physical Abuse
Family Law Child Law Domestic Abuse Child Arrangements Fact Finding Coercive Control Neglect Physical Abuse

Case Brief

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Parties

S

Applicant

B

Respondent

The PGM

Intervener

Procedural Posture

Child Arrangements / Fact Finding Hearing / Judgment After 5 Day Fact Finding Hearing

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether S and/or the PGM were domestically abusive to B
  2. 2 Whether B was neglectful or abusive towards A
  3. 3 Whether B entered the relationship under false pretences

Ratio Decidendi

The Court found S and the PGM were domestically abusive to B, both verbally and physically, in a controlling and coercive manner. S's allegations of neglect against B were not substantiated and were found to be strategic. The evidence supported B's account of abuse and threats, while S and the PGM's accounts were unreliable and minimised their conduct. No finding was made against B regarding physical abuse or neglect towards A, and allegations of B entering the relationship under false pretences were not proven.

Court Disposition

Findings of domestic abuse and controlling behaviour against S and the PGM; allegations of neglect and physical abuse against B not proven.

Orders

  • Judgment to be shared with parties and ISW
  • Parties to file response statements to findings