Look carefully at the agency's owner, coordinator and case manager (in most cases one person has all three roles). They should have an attention to detail and have a good understanding of how Family Law and the Courts operate. There should be at least one senior staff member with experience working with children on a professional level; raising your own children is an asset but won't necessarily give you the knowledge and experience when dealing with complex trauma or family conflict. Children are often caught in the middle and need guidance and reassurance that they aren't the reason their parents are battling.
If you don't have experience working with children and families in the areas of custody and divorce, you want to find an agency with either a coordinator or case manager that does. They will provide you with the necessary ongoing training and guidance you need to be successful in this field.
Your reports carry great responsibility and can have a lifetime effect on the children and their relationships with both parents. You want to be well trained, make good judgments and be factual with your reports. Despite any personal opinions, you must always remain unbiased; not doing so may mistakenly limit or sever a parent's access to their children.
How would you feel if access to your children had been revoked resulting from a mistake made by a supervisor? In many cases, the damage may be irreparable.
Make sure the agency's owner, case managers and coordinators match your values and ethics, they need to support your judgement calls and not "throw you under the bus" when a parent takes issue with the accuracy or content within your reports. Supervision is very sensitive work, reports can become evidence in court, and you may be called as a witness to testify in court. Knowing that you have the support of your case manager, coordinator and the owner can minimize your anxiety and stress.
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NOTE: The content on this website is not to be considered legal advice. The information provided is for reference only and should not replace
that of a qualified lawyer. Before making any decision which will affect you, your children, or your ex partner, consult a qualified professional..
