Protecting Children During Court Proceedings - FLiP 29

Daniel Coombes and Jo Harrison discuss how to protect children’s mental health when their parents are in family court proceedings, or any process where a third party needs to make a decision for them, such as arbitration. Whether proceedings are about the children themselves, or the parents’ finances, Daniel and Jo agree that both the parents and the lawyers should do as much as possible to insulate children from the process and stress associated with it.  They talk about direct ways to look out for children, as well as practical strategies to help parents protect themselves and support everyone’s wellbeing.  This in-depth conversation covers, but is not limited to: ·         When and how to speak to children about family proceedings ·         The value of giving children a voice and how to do this in an age-appropriate way ·         The difference between feeling heard and being stuck in the middle ·         The importance of communication and trust between parent and child ·         Spotting signs that a child is struggling with their mental health ·         Getting help from third parties such as family, school and experts ·         Children’s involvement in proceedings, such as CAFCASS interviews ·         The benefit of boundaries and why parents should set them with their lawyers ·         The impact of stress on decision making ·         Dealing with disappointing outcomes ·         Managing handovers when you’re in conflict Discussing separation, Daniel comments “It’s one of those moments in one’s life where decisions that you make, behaviours that you exhibit, have profound impacts and can really seriously and significantly affect the future of our children.”   About the speakers: Daniel Coombes Daniel is an experienced family solicitor, mediator and collaborative practitioner.  He recognises that decisions made at the time of separation will have long-lasting ramifications and helps parents to focus on what is important and what needs prioritising – in the short, medium and long term. He has a reputation for handling the most challenging children cases - including where there are mental health concerns, allegations of abuse and parental alienation - and achieving creative but workable solutions, both in and out of the court arena. Jo Harrison Jo is an experienced therapist working with individuals and couples who are separating.  A former family lawyer, Jo has a depth of experience that benefits individuals and couples as she supports them through the separation and divorce process.  Jo is the author of the book ‘Five Arguments All Couples (Need To) Have And Why The Washing Up Matters’, and is regularly quoted in the press.  She has made appearances on ITV’s This Morning (the Relationship Clinic) and Marina Fogle’s The Parent Hood.