Family Law

Children’s Views in Family Cases

May 13th 2027

Virtual Seminar

Children’s Views in Family Cases

May 13th 2027

2 - 5pm

Speaker: TBC

Virtual Seminar

Book Now

£180+VAT

3hrs CPD

Ensuring that children have the opportunity to express their views has become an increasingly important part of family law in Scotland. Recent changes have strengthened the emphasis on children being heard in decisions which affect them, while difficult questions remain about how views should be obtained, how much weight should be placed on them and what to do where there are concerns about influence or pressure.

This seminar will look at the practical issues which arise when children’s views become part of a family case and the developing law and practice in this area.

The seminar will consider:

The legal framework for taking children’s views

Recent changes affecting children’s participation

UNCRC and the right of children to be heard

Children (Scotland) Act 2020 and current implementation

When a child’s views should be sought

Age, maturity and capacity to express a view

Obtaining the views of younger children

The different ways in which views can be obtained

F9 forms and their use in practice

Child welfare reporters

Children speaking directly to the sheriff

Separate representation of children

How much weight should be given to a child’s views?

Views, wishes and preferences

Concerns about coaching, influence and parental pressure

Reluctant children and refusal of contact

Children’s views in high-conflict cases

Different views between siblings

Children’s views and the welfare test

Practical issues for solicitors when presenting and responding to children’s views