Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
What happens at a Family Report interview?
Prior to your interviews with the Family Report writer, filed documents describing what has occurred in your relationship will be read by the Family Report writer in preparation. Prearranged interviews and observations will then take place with all relevant parties/guardians, by the family report writer at their offices (or remotely, by arrangement). Interviews are normally all undertaken on one day, taking account the particular circumstances of those attending. A standard interview day may occur as follows - this can vary depending on individual circumstances and the Family Report writer’s assessments on the day:
Adult 1 and subject child/ren arrive. An additional adult may also be required to attend to care for the children.
Adult 1 is interviewed (up to 1.5 hours)
Child/ren are interviewed if appropriate (up to 30minutes)
Adult 1 is observed with child/ren (up to 30 minutes
Adult 2 arrives
Adult 2 is observed with child/ren (up to 30 minutes per child)
Adult 1 & children depart
Adult 2 is interviewed (up to 1.5 hours).
Part of this process includes interviews and observations with the subject children, where appropriate. Your children will be interviewed in a way that gives them an opportunity to have a voice about their care into the future. Observations of you interacting with your child are also part of the normal process, unless there is a clinical reason not to do so. In some circumstances, the Family Report writer may contact you by phone to obtain more information or clarify details. Other professionals supporting you or your children may also be contacted, with your written permission, to provide additional information. Documents that have been subpoenaed may also be read.
Does the report writer make recommendations?
The full family report will usually make recommendations in the best interests of the child/ren, based on the information provided during the process.
Who sees the report when it’s finished?
The report is usually shared with the court and the parties’ legal representatives, who then provide copies to their clients. It is a confidential document and not intended to be provided to other parties without permission.
Is the report confidential?
Yes, however there are legal limitations. They are for use by the Court or as agreed during mediation. They are not to be shared with friends or family or shared online.
What can I do if I do not agree with a report?
If you do not agree with the Family Report Writer’s report, you can raise your concerns with your lawyer, who may then ask the report writer questions in court. The Judge hearing the matter will make the final decision as to how much weight to place on the report recommendations.
How long is a report valid for?
Reports can be used in future proceedings, however if a lengthy period of time has elapsed, the Court may request an updated assessment.
What is the difference between a Family Report and a Child Impact Report?
A Family Report is a detailed assessment and analysis of family circumstances, the needs of the children and how proposals are likely to impact the children. It provides recommendations to assist in decisions for care arrangements for the children. A Child Impact Report is a brief report that assesses protective factors, possible risks, including conflict, that are affecting the child/ren. Child Impact Reports are often engaged earlier in court proceedings and make recommendations for Interim orders. For example, there may be recommendations for more information to be gathered prior to a Family Report. In some more straightforward matters, a Child Impact Report may make recommendations for Final Orders.
How much does a private report cost, and who pays for it?
Prices vary, depending on a number of factors, including report type, urgency, and the number of people involved. The cost is normally shared between the parties seeking the report. How this is divided can vary depending on your specific circumstances and agreement. Your lawyer or mediator can assist your cost sharing discussions. See our current price guides here:
| Full Family Report | Child Impact Report |
Must all parties agree to undertaking a private report?
All parties need to agree to undertake a private report, and the choice of Family Report Writer.
Do all parties get a chance to share their views?
All adult parties are provided time to discuss their concerns, ideas, and what they believe best supports the children’s wellbeing and safety.
How should I prepare for my interview?
The best approach is to understand the need to speak openly and honestly about the circumstances around your family situation and children. Considering the child/ren’s needs and how your proposed arrangements may best support them, is also worthwhile.
Can I bring support people to the interviews?
Interviews are usually conducted with each party alone to ensure confidentiality and to facilitate open discussion. There are particular confidentiality legal requirements about family law matters and family reports. If a participant has particular needs, contact the Family Report Writer well before your interview to discuss them.
How is my child’s voice included in the process?
Depending on the specific circumstances, children are usually provided the opportunity to have a conversation with AnneMarie, which is explained in a pressure-free, age-appropriate way. AnneMarie’s approach is warm, invitational and supportive. Child/ren’s thoughts, feelings and wishes are an important aspect of the report. Judges in Australia do not see the children in Court, so professional clinicians and Independent Children’s Lawyers speak with the children to convey their voices to the Court.
What if my child is too young to be interviewed?
If a child is too young or developmentally unable to participate, AnneMarie will gather information from other sources including the adults involved, observations if appropriate, and other sources.