questions about switching from WP to Tier2 Gen

[alanwong]

Situation: I am holding a WP based visa, due to a simple caution I got last year. I will not be able to apply ILR within the current leave to enter.
Questions:
1. Can I switch to Tier2 Gen (or Do I have to switch to Tier2), if I want to continue to stay in UK to work on the job for the same employer?
I think I can, Please let me know if I am wrong.
2. Can I change employer?
I think I can,Please let me know if I am wrong.
3. for questions 1 and 2, there is a cooling-off period for me?
I do not think there is,Please let me know if I am wrong.
4. I have two UK born children. One has entry clearance. The other does not have leave to remain or enter. Do I have to apply for dependent visa for both of them when I switch?
I think I do not need to, Please let me know if I am wrong.
5.Does my employer need to apply for restricted CoS or unrestricted Cos for me?
I think it is unrestricted Cos.Please let me know if I am wrong.
5. for continuing to work on for my current employer, when is the appropriate time (how long before my current visa expires) to ask my employer to apply for Cos for me?

I will greatly appreciate your reply.