Err... Well after buying the game, I must admit I've never come across the problems you are describing. Both sides can move after spending AP, and aiming spells simply involves selecting the spell and target (if they're in range).

And what keeps turning off? You didn't provide any context with your last sentence.

Combat is turn based, with the turn order shown at the top of the screen, and an indicator for the current character or NPC taking their turn. Once combat starts, you can only have a character use skills or spells during their turn, so can not switch back and forth for that like you can outside combat.