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FAMILY COURT OF AUSTRALIA
Particular difficulties for child representatives when they are dealing with SRLs.
There is an unconscious temptation to run the case of the SRL. This creates extra
work. When both parties are SRLs the child rep tends to run the entire hearing.
Proposes a separate case management track for SRL cases. More case
management. Litigants respond better to direction/information from the court
than they do if it comes from the other party. A piece of paper with a court seal
with what is to be done by the next date – similar to the terms of settlement sheet
used at Parramatta. Issues of language problems need to be addressed. Refer to
sheet used by Brisbane – referred to in case studies booklet. Provides authority
for a CLC to contact and speak to the court.
6.4 Ray Lenton – Lone Parent Support Network
Has been helping SRLs for 2 years, both men and women. His own experience
was with representation for 18 months and then became an SRL. With limited
understanding of the system. Background in social sciences.
Found solicitors did not spend enough time with him to understand what was
happening. Alone in court looking to serve the best interests of the children.
Following directions given, it is usually possible to find the way through the
system. Appears often as a McKenzie’s friend as a way to provide lay support for
SRLs. Helps to get a resolution of the case. Has achieved improved family
arrangements in most cases.
Offers a workshop based program which also deals with AVOs. Also offers a
workshop on ‘making contact work’ which places high value on contact.
Another is on child support with a loose structure.
Provides assistance to people after the hearing, which has long been recognised
as a gap in service. Understanding the grief when the case is lost. For people
who have been through the process both with and without representation.
Help is provided by ‘para-professionals’ with limited training in community
support. It is not a therapeutic process. The aim is to have the peer support
program he offers supported and extended. Would like to have his flyers made
available in the registry.
Issue for men is not so much a lack of services but they are hard to find. Men
may not want help and they have a limited understanding of the broader welfare
system. Violence is acknowledged as an issue but it is not all one way.
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