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What is a “Hear the Child” Report?
A Hear the Child Report is a non-evaluative report which expresses children's views in separation and divorce cases.
It is used to help the courts and parents determine a child's best interests by considering the child's views.
Timely interviews and reports may be provided for family disputes when parenting arrangements or contact with a child need to be decided.
These “Hear The Child” interviews and reports comply with the Family Law Act ss.37(2)(b), 41(k)(ii) and 202 .
The Family Law Act states (paraphrasing):
1. The views of the child must be heard, unless inappropriate to do so, and
2. Any decisions that directly involve children, must be made in their best interests.
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Compliance with the Family Law Act can be challenging as mediators and arbitrators are not allowed to interview children unless they are adequately trained.
The testimony of either parent involved in the dispute is considered problematic as it may fail to provide adequate neutrality. Often, children in stressful situations like a family breakup are hesitant to speak their truth when one or both parents are present.
Hear the Child reports may either be ordered by the courts, or may be requested where both guardians agree. Often “Hear the Child” interviews and reports will be considered as the best solution to receive timely and neutrally obtained information about the children’s views in a relatively inexpensive manner. Click the links below for more
Learn More about Hear The Child interviews