Respondents in Chester often contact us the same day they're served with court papers. Whether you want to agree to the order, offer an undertaking or challenge false allegations, we explain your options, help with the FL435 response and check legal aid for free. We cover Chester and the whole of Cheshire.
Why respondents in Chester contact FL435.co.uk
- Free to speak to an advisor, with no obligation
- Free legal aid eligibility check
- Help typing up your FL435 response and statement
- Referral to legal aid family solicitors
- Phone, video or email, so you don't need to travel
Responding to a non-molestation order in Chester: step by step
- Check your papers: the order, the applicant's FL401 and statement, the notice of hearing and the FL435 response form.
- Note your return hearing date. After a without-notice order it should be within 28 days, at the Family Court named on your order.
- Get free advice and a legal aid check.
- Choose your response: agree without admissions, offer an undertaking, ask for changes, or oppose the order.
- Return your FL435 to the court at least 5 working days before the hearing.
- Attend the return hearing in person or remotely, with your evidence.
Legal aid for respondents in Chester
Many people in Chester don't realise that respondents can get legal aid for non-molestation and occupation order cases. It is means- and merits-tested, so not everyone qualifies, but it's always worth checking, especially if you have a child arrangements case, a police investigation, or you've been asked to leave your home under an occupation order. Our advisors check this for you free.
Common situations we help with in Chester
- Non-molestation order served by a process server or police with no warning
- False or exaggerated allegations made during a separation
- Orders that stop you seeing your children or doing handovers
- Being told to leave the family home in Chester
- Wanting to set aside, vary or discharge an order
- Being accused of breaching an order
Frequently asked questions: Chester
Can I get legal aid to respond to a non-molestation order in Chester?
Yes, if you meet the Legal Aid Agency's means and merits tests. Legal aid for respondents is available across England and Wales, including Chester. It is more likely where there are linked children or criminal proceedings. We check your eligibility free of charge.
Which court will my non-molestation hearing be at in Chester?
Your order and notice of hearing will name the court. Respondents from Chester are usually heard at the family court hearing centre that covers Cheshire, or remotely by video or phone.
How quickly can I speak to an advisor in Chester?
We aim to call back the same working day. If your return hearing is within the next few days, say so on the form or email support@fl435.co.uk with 'URGENT' in the subject.
I've been served with an FL435 form in Chester. What do I do?
Read the order, obey it, and return the FL435 to the court at least 5 working days before your return hearing. Tell the court whether you agree to the order continuing, would give an undertaking, or oppose it. We can help you complete it for free.