Should an Independent Children’s Lawyer (ICL) meet with the child of the parties when compiling a family report. (A summary of the principles set out in a recent decision of the Family Court ). The role of an Independent Childrens Lawyer (ICL) is pivotal in family law proceedings, as they act as an independent representative of a child's best interests. This role is guided by the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) (the Act), as well as by the National Guidelines...
Who should be advised? The ICL must file and serve an Address for Service to advise the court and the parties of their appointment. The ICL is to advise all necessary agencies, for example, the Federal Circuit and Family. Court’s Court Children’s Service and the State Welfare Authority, of their appointment. To the extent that such information has not been made available as a result of responses to Notices of Child Abuse, Family Violence or Risk, the ICL is to...
