How to Prepare for a Family Report

A family report is a document that provides the court with information and recommendations about the best interests of the children involved in a family law dispute. A family report is prepared by an independent professional, such as a social worker, psychologist, or family consultant, who interviews both parents and the children, observes their interactions, and reviews relevant documents. The family report can help the court make decisions about parenting arrangements, such as where the children will live and how much time they will spend with each parent.

If you are going through a family law dispute and the court orders a family report, you may wonder what to expect and how to prepare for the interview. In this article, we will give you some tips and advice on how to make a good impression and support the best interests of your children.

What to Expect at the Interview

The family report interview usually takes place at the office of the report writer and can last up to a day. The report writer will meet with each parent separately, as well as with the children, depending on their age and maturity. The report writer will also observe how the parents and the children interact with each other and with the report writer. The report writer may ask questions about:

• Your relationship with the other parent and how you communicate and cooperate with each other;
• Your relationship with the children and how you meet their physical, emotional, educational, and cultural needs;
• The children’s views and wishes about their living arrangements and their relationship with both parents;
• Any issues or concerns that affect the children’s wellbeing, such as domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health, or family conflict;
• Any services or support that you or the children receive or need, such as counselling, parenting programs, or medical care.

The report writer will also review any documents that are relevant to the case, such as court orders, affidavits, police reports, school reports, or medical reports. The report writer will use all the information gathered from the interviews and the documents to prepare a written report that will be sent to the court and the parties.

How to Prepare for the Interview

Preparing for the family report interview can help you feel more confident and relaxed, as well as create a positive impression on the report writer. Here are some things you can do before and during the interview:

• Plan your trip to the report writer’s office in advance and allow enough time for travel and parking. Arrive on time and dress yourself and the children in neat and comfortable clothes.
• Be aware that you may see the other parent at the interview venue and avoid any confrontation or argument with them. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, let the report writer or the staff know.
• Bring some snacks, drinks, and activities for the children, as the interview may take a long time and they may get hungry or bored. Do not coach or influence the children on what to say or how to behave during the interview. Let them express their own views and feelings in their own way.
• Think about what parenting arrangements you want for the children and why they are in their best interests. Be prepared to explain your reasons and provide examples of how you support the children’s needs and wellbeing. Be respectful and honest when talking about the other parent and their relationship with the children. Do not criticise or blame the other parent or try to undermine their role in the children’s lives.
• Ask for an interpreter if you have difficulty understanding or speaking English. Let the report writer know if you have any special needs or circumstances that may affect the interview, such as a disability, a medical condition, or a cultural background.
• Answer the report writer’s questions truthfully and clearly. Listen carefully and do not interrupt or argue with the report writer. Focus on the children’s best interests and how you can promote their welfare and development. Show that you are willing to cooperate and communicate with the other parent and that you respect the children’s right to have a meaningful relationship with both parents.

What Happens After the Interview

The report writer will usually tell you when they will finish and send the report to the court and the parties. The report will include information about the family’s situation, the children’s views and needs, and the report writer’s recommendations about the best interests of the children. The report writer may also recommend that either parent or the children participate in further assessments, counselling, or programs.

The report is not binding on the court, but it is highly persuasive and influential. The court will consider the report along with other evidence and submissions when making decisions about the case. You can ask questions to the report writer or challenge the report in court if you disagree with it or if there are any errors or changes in circumstances.

Family report interviews are an important part of the family law process and can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can prepare yourself and the children for the interview and support their best interests1. If you need more information or assistance, you can contact a family lawyer who can advise you on your rights and obligations and represent you in court.