This workshop introduces non-legal practitioners, such as psychologists, counsellors and social workers, to the requirements and legal obligations of writing court reports, attending court as a witness or support person, and your responsibilities to your clients. We will examine commonly-requested reports such as Parenting Reports, Child Assessments, Family Reports, and Intervention Order assessment reports. Consideration will be given to the laws which govern these reports, including the Family Law Act and the Children and Young Person’s Act.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- develop knowledge of how the Family Court, Melbourne Magistrates’ Court and Federal Circuit Court of Australia operate
- understand the requirements of attending court as a witness who is subpoenaed
- understand the requirements of attending court as a support person
- understand the purpose, structure and use of a court report
- analyse how reports are used in courts, and the issues that may arise in the process of cross-examination
- analyse the impact of having an on-going professional relationship with clients after the process of court preparation.
Ideal for
- Professionals who have been asked to attend court or write a report for a client. This includes psychologists, counsellors, social workers, family workers, allied health and medical staff.
About the presenter
Lilia Szarski is a clinical supervisor and experienced trainer at Relationships Australia Victoria and a qualified, registered psychologist. She is also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, International Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and the International Association of Applied Psychologists.
