Family Law Reports

A Section 211 Report is a comprehensive and neutral evaluation conducted by a trained professional appointed to assist the court in understanding the needs of the child(ren) and determining parenting arrangements that reflect their best interests. The assessor gathers information through interviews with the child(ren), their parents or guardians, any new spouses or partners, and any other adults who may act in a caregiving role, reside in either household, or regularly interact with the child(ren).

The assessment also includes interviews with collateral references for each parent or guardian, such as friends, neighbours, or extended family members outside the immediate family who can speak to the parent’s caregiving abilities based on direct and consistent observation. Professionals who interact with the child(ren) or the parents and guardians—such as teachers, counsellors, psychologists, or physicians—may also be interviewed when applicable.

A Hear the Child Report is prepared for the court, legal counsel, mediators, or arbitrators involved in family law matters and are typically conducted prior to, during, or following separation or divorce proceedings.

Interviews are conducted one-on-one with each child using fair, consistent, and age-appropriate questions. Topics generally include life at home, school and activities, relationships with each parent or guardian, and the child’s thoughts or concerns related to the family transition.

A key feature of a Hear the Child Report is that it is non-evaluative. The interviewer’s role is limited to accurately capturing the child’s words without interpretation, analysis, or recommendations. Because these reports do not assess the child’s maturity, the consistency of their views, or the context surrounding their statements, they may be considered less comprehensive for decision-making than a Views of the Child Report.

A Views of the Child (Views) Report, is to gather and document the child’s perspectives in a clear, balanced, and developmentally appropriate manner. The report provides a written verbatim (word-for-word) account of each child’s statements and is prepared for the court, legal counsel, arbitrators, or mediators involved in family law matters. These interviews commonly occur before, during, or after separation or divorce proceedings.

Interviews are conducted one-on-one with each child using fair, consistent, and age-appropriate questions. Areas of exploration typically include daily life at home, school and activities, relationships with each parent or guardian, and the child’s thoughts and feelings regarding the separation or divorce.