One important thing you might come across is a Family Report —an important, independent document that helps the court understand your family’s unique situation with recommendations focusing on the children’s best interests. Below, we’ve answered some common questions to help you feel more informed and prepared when coming across a Family Report.
What Is a Family Report Writer?
A Family Report Writer is someone who interviews you and your family to understand your unique dynamics. Typically, this person is an accredited Social Worker or Psychologist with years of experience working closely with children and their families. The court trusts these experts to provide an expert, unbiased perspective, helping to ensure that decisions made are truly in the best interest of your children.
Does every family need a Family Report Writer?
Not every family will need a Family Report, but if the court or an Independent Children’s Lawyer decides that more insight into your family situation is needed, a Family Report may be requested.
This isn’t something to fear. If you find yourself in this situation, know that the goal is to provide the court with the information needed to make thoughtful, informed decisions about your family’s futurewith your children being the main focus.
Why are Family Reports important? Will they help my case?
Family Reports play a crucial role in family law cases because they offer a detailed look into your family’s life. These reports help the court understand the relationships, challenges and needs within your family. While it’s just one piece of the puzzle, a well-prepared Family Report can have a significant impact on the court’s decisions.
Can I choose who is my Family Report Writer?
A Family Report Writer can either be appointed by the Court or jointly elected by the parties in the parenting dispute.
How much does a Family Report cost?
We know that finances can be a concern during these times, so it’s important to note that there is no cost to either party for a Family Report done by a Court-appointed Family Consultant. The cost of a private Family Report varies based on who you choose to undertake the report.
How do I prepare for a Family Report Writer meeting?
Preparing for a meeting with a Family Report Writer might feel daunting, but a little preparation can go a long way:
Focus on your children:
Think about what’s truly best for your children. Consider their needs and how you can best support them. When you meet with the report writer, be ready to share these thoughts clearly and sincerely.
Prepare your children:
Let your children know that they’re going to meet someone who’s there to help figure out the best way for them to spend time with the people who matter most. Keep it simple and reassuring, it’s about helping the family.
Plan for the day:
These meetings can take several hours, so it’s wise to plan ahead. Make sure someone can be there to care for your children while the adults are being interviewed. Bring snacks, drinks, and things to keep your kids comfortable, calm and occupied.
Bring something special:
If possible, think about an activity or game you can do with your children during the meeting. The report writer might want to observe how you interact, so bringing something familiar and comforting can be helpful and make everyone feel more at ease.
Meet our Family Report Writer
Meet Jill, our Family Report Writer at Lander Solicitors Queensland. With over 30 years of experience in Social Work, Jill has dedicated her life to supporting children and families through some of their toughest times.
Jill’s background is rich and varied, including roles as a Child Safety Officer in both Brisbane and London, work in disability services, and even involvement in government policy development. She’s been in the courtroom, too, confidently providing evidence in high-profile cases, including in London’s High Court. But what truly sets Jill apart is her ability to connect with families, understand their unique situations, and provide reports that are fair, thorough, and always focused on what’s best for the children involved.
Expert family report writer Brisbane
Jill regularly conducts Family Reports outside of the Brisbane area and is happy to travel to undertake a report. At Lander Solicitors Queensland, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether it’s understanding the role of a Family Report Writer or preparing for your meeting with Jill, our goal is to make this process as smooth and clear as possible for you.
If you have any more questions or need expert guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you navigate this challenging time with the care and expertise your family deserves. Feel free to contact us today for a quote for the preparation of a Family Report.
Jill Lander can be contacted directly on 0423 974 753.
DISCLAIMER – The information provided in this blog is general and does not consider your individual legal needs or objectives. It does not constitute personal advice and is for informational purposes only. We recommend seeking out professional and independent legal advice from a qualified Australian lawyer to advise on your individual situation before acting on any information contained below. Lander Solicitors Queensland accepts no express or implied liability for negligence or contractually for reliance on any information provided. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
