Child Protection
If you have been notified that your child, yourself, or a member of your family is subject to an investigation or report by Child Protection we understand that this can be an extremely difficult experience. Child Protection is the Victorian Government Department responsible for the protection of children, and is a portfolio overseen by The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH).
Mandatory disclosure obligations now mean that many professionals are legally compelled to make a report to Child Protection if they form a belief on reasonable grounds that a child is in need of protection from physical injury or harm of any kind. Reports are generally anonymous and are generally made via a Hotline, following which an intake assessment will be conducted. Reports may be closed at intake if the Child Protection worker has formed a view that the child is not at risk of harm. Occasionally an official investigation will ensue, which may result in Child Protection taking protective measures or commencing Court proceedings.
CHILDREN’S COURT MATTERS
The Children’s Court are able to make a variety of Orders for the protection, care and welfare of children. Such Orders may include interim accommodation orders, protection orders, temporary assessment orders, and permanent care orders.
Children’s Court matters can often be urgent and require swift action and responses in order to resolve child protection issues as efficiently as possible. We are here to help you know your rights in these situations and guide your way through the Children’s Court process and make decisions in the best interests of the child and the family.
If a child in your immediate or extended family becomes subject to a Child Protection investigation or Children’s Court proceedings it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible, keeping in my that Protection Applications by Emergency Care are able to be heard within 24 hours.
Please contact our office if you require our assistance with any of the following:
Child Protections initial investigations;
Contact with Child Protection workers;
Protection Applications;
Case Plan appeals;
Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia proceedings;
Extensions, variations and revocations of Children’s Court Orders
Appeals
Intervention Orders