Is this a stupid idea? Making 'access' a long term contract-type thing.

[SurferRosa]

I was just wondering if it might save a bit of trouble.

If when fighting for access, a man (or person without residence) could be made to sign an agreement saying that they committed fully to the arrangement, in whatever form, for say 16 or 18 years? Not just giving them the right to it, iyswim, but making them commit so it was more like the right of the child instead of the right of the parent?

It might put off the idiots who just apply for access in order to annoy their child's mother, or make a point - and actually are rather afraid of any real commitment, and don't bother to keep to the plan.

It might be punishable by a fine or something if they let the child down by not turning up.

I am probably being very naive as I haven't been through court etc. (so far) but I just wondered if it's ever been thought of, and potential downsides.

Also if my ex was to try for access, would it be something I could make a condition of our agreement? If so I don't think he'd be up for it at all...

[SurferRosa]

Obviously it would be better acting as a deterrent rather than them doing it, then not keeping to arrangements and being penalised...wouldn't want someone just turning up to see child because of the threat of a fine...

[Tinkerbel5]

There is no such thing, a nrp can be granted access but there is nothing in place to make them stick to it, you cant force anyone to see a child if they dont want too, and yes unfortunately some men do exercie their right just because they can and arent thinking about the child at all

[SurferRosa]

Thanks, Tink...just a middle of the night hypothetical thing, if only there were some way to prevent them messing the kids around as I think that's the worst bit of allowing access.

[mojosmum]

surferrosa - i think it would be a great idea though what with all this rewarding 2 parent family crap & poor single parents who didnt all plan it that way having to suffer i think your idea would be great maybe then the fine counld be paid into a trust fund for the child so at least it has something for the future