Bankrupt childcare mogul Eddy Groves says "reputation at stake" but attempt to defend himself under legal challenge BANKRUPT childcare mogul Eddy Groves says his "reputation is at stake," but his attempt to deflect claims of abuse and signature fraud are under legal challenge. A long-brewing legal battle kicked off in Queensland's Supreme Court this morning entangling Mr Groves, lenders Citi and BT, against Le Neve Groves. Mr Groves and Dr Groves were co-founders of the ABC Learning Centres childcare chain. The chain collapsed in November 2008. Dr Groves later took action against Mr Groves - they are divorced - and the lenders. It involved the sale of $33 million worth of Dr Groves's ABC Learning stock in margin calls. Pre-court filings in the last few years have revealed a slew of claims from Dr Groves, including that her signature had been forged and that her former husband was violent. Mr Groves today tried to represent himself. But Dr Groves's lawyer, Patrick O'Shea, immediately said they did not consent to him appearing. Mr O'Shea pointed out that since Mr Groves became a bankrupt in January, the proceedings against him were dropped. Mr Groves, dressed in a suit, tried to stand his ground. "My reputation is at stake," the former entrepreneur told the court. When it was put that he could not face legal orders, and had nothing to protect himself from in this matter, Mr Groves responded: "Except allegations." He was allowed to take a few hours to present arguments to allow him to appear. In opening submissions, Mr O'Shea alleged the lenders failed to take prudent steps that a bank would normally take in getting guarantees from Dr Groves. The guarantees were for Mr Groves's loans, and caused the sales of Dr Grove's ABC shares. Mr O'Shea questioned whether the lenders had insured Dr Groves had got a certification of independent advice. Mr O'Shea alleged Dr Groves was an intelligent woman with a PHd but was not "financially sophisticated." Mr Groves remained in "complete control" of financial matters, he said. Mr O'Shea said Dr Groves believed the signature on guarantee documents were not hers and said her former husband had even bragged at an earlier stage about writing Dr Groves signature. He also alleged there was an "abusive" relationship between Mr Groves and Dr Groves, something "unfortunately will have to be explored." The matter continues. Dr Groves is seeking $33 million from the share sales plus interest in restitution from the lenders.