Hi all

I'm appearing in the Federal Magistrates Court tomorrow for the initial hearing of my interim and final orders pertaining to the parental responsibility of my 4 year old son.

I'm just after some advice on what to do in court - I initiated the proceedings and he has not responded (legally, he has called me telling me I should be shot, and also that it's "none of my business what he's doing in court") but he has not lodged a response. I served him via email as per his request first, and subsequently by hand so he could not use the excuse he wasn't served properly. I have no idea if he has had any legal advice or will show up represented tomorrow, if at all.

I just honestly don't know how to start once my name is called and the magistrate asks what we're there for? I have attended the same initial hearing process with my partner being self represented, but his ex-partner had a lawyer and was somewhat led by her and the magistrate.

Should I just strop stressing and take direction? I'm well spoken and know what I'm asking for but I just don't know how to sum up a 21 page affidavit and 35 orders into a paragraph, and I'm terrified of making a fool of myself.

Any help or advice would be appreciated, and am happy to give more details!!