Child Advocacy

If the Family Court is asked to determine care arrangements for a child because of a dispute between caregivers / parents or because of care and protection concerns (CYFS proceedings) the Court may appoint a lawyer to act for the child or the children in issue.  The lawyer appointed (known as Lawyer for Child) usually has the role of ensuring that the child's views are put before the Court.  The brief for Lawyer for Child may also include ensuring that the Court is well informed about the issues that impact on a child's care and that the Court has the necessary information from professionals involved with the child such as the child's school teacher or doctor.

One important role of Lawyer for Child is to explain the Court process to the child in a way that they can understand.  Lawyer for Child also acts as the child's advocate through the Court process and will often explain the Court's decision to the child.

At Thomas Dewar Sziranyi Letts Gerard Letts undertakes Lawyer for Child appointments.