Lobbying pretending to be ‘research’
Members of the Family Law Bar Association (barristers) and the Law Society (solicitors) are asked to fill in a questionnaire. It was instigated by the Domestic Abuse Commissioner and sponsored by the Home Office. It is into how the family courts treat cases in which there are allegations of domestic abuse.
Yes, there are nods towards ‘objectivity’ and honourable practice in social research.
But it is -no shred of doubt - mainly a trawl for incidents with which to strengthen what has become the standard line: That applications to the court for children to have relationships with parents with whom they do not principally live are in fact, attempts of abusive fathers to continue his persecution of an ex-partner.
‘...The Commissioner is interested to hear about experiences relating to domestic abuse in private family law proceedings...with a particular focus on allegations relating to children resisting, refusing, or being reluctant to spend time with one parent... ‘
The responses are anonymous, and no identifying details are asked for. No corroboration is possible.
Just a licence to make allegations.
The most accurate thing said is – to quote the invitation, ‘In bringing policy to a wide range of people, it is often the anecdotal which is the most effective’.
No easy way to challenge this – but continue to support our charity to argue for the needs of children
Of course, it is necessary to say this, even if it should not be. Domestic abuse is indefensible and should be dealt with robustly. But in the passions triggered by the end of romantic relationships it is psychologically easy to make unfounded allegations. And/or to feel that the other does not deserve to see the children. The family courts should be making balanced and sensitive assessments of the implications for children. They should not be put under political pressure to depart from that duty.
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