FROM ACCESS TO OPENNESS: UNDERSTANDING THE PROCESS

For many lawyers who work in child protection, they are aware of openness orders but lack experience in litigation after the final extended care order is made. Their parent clients may have heard of openness and have unrealistic expectations of contact if and when an adoption occurs. The panel will explain the legal framework for Openness Applications and Openness Orders. It will share best practices for drafting of final extended care orders that include access and for advising parent clients. It will also clarify the adoption process, the potential role of mediation and the role of the child’s counsel in initiating Openness Applications.

Panelists:
Martha Chamberlain (Chamberlain Family Law)
Maggie Hall (Mediation North)
Ferdinand Herrera (CAS Toronto)
Justice Heather-Ann Mendes (Ontario Court of Justice)

Registration Deadline: June 20 @ 6:00 p.m.

The webinar access link and any program materials will be distributed within 24 hours of the webinar.