Voice of the Child Reporting is a process of safely gathering, documenting and sharing the views and preferences of a child. Parents, and at times Judges, will request a Voice of the Child Report to assist them in making informed decisions or recommendations for Parenting arrangements.

 

The Voice of the Child Practitioner is a trained professional who interviews the child in a confidential process, over the course of several separate interviews. The process is non-evaluative, meaning that the professional is not assessing the child or providing their opinion about the child, the child’s views or any observations made during the interview.

 

In order for a Voice of the Child report to be completed, both parents and the child have to be willing to move forward with the process and provide their consent to participate. It is a voluntary process that can be terminated at any time. The interview is confidential, the Practitioner cannot be called to testify in court and their notes may not be subpoenaed. The only people present for the interview are the child and the Practitioner. The child will decide what information, if any, they will allow the Practitioner to share with their parents through the written report.

 

Voice of the Child reports shield the child from conflict while allowing them to feel heard. Their opinions, views and preferences are important. Some children really want to and appreciate the opportunity to share their views and preferences while some children prefer not to participate in such a process. Parents and Practitioners should respect the expressed preferences of the child to participate in a Voice of the Child Process or to not participate. Children should never be forced or pressured to participate or share their views and preferences.

 

If you would like to learn more about Voice of the Child reporting, please schedule a consult so you can discuss this process in greater detail.