Your Voice Matters
When your parents or the court make decisions about your family, you have a right to be heard. The law says that your views must be considered if it’s appropriate. Generally, the older you are, the more weight a judge will give to what you have to say.
How to Have Your Voice Heard
- Talk to Your Parents: If you feel safe doing so, tell your parents what matters to you. For example, if you want to stay at the same school or keep doing a specific sport, let them know. This helps them build a schedule that actually works for your life.
- "Hear the Child" Reports: Sometimes, a professional (like a counselor or psychologist) will interview you to write a report for the court. This is a chance to speak your mind in a private setting. There are no "right" or "wrong" answers, the writer just wants to understand how you feel.
- Get Your Own Lawyer: In some cases, a judge or both your parents may decide you need your own lawyer to protect your interests. This lawyer works only for you, not your parents. They listen to what you want and tell the judge for you. You can get free legal help through the Child and Youth Legal Centre. You do not have to pay for your own lawyer.
- Speak to a Judge: This is called a "judicial interview." It doesn't happen in every case, but sometimes a judge will meet with you directly to hear your perspective. You can ask your parents or a lawyer if this is an option for you.
Important Things to Remember
You don’t have to choose sides. You have a right to stay close to both your parents. If you feel pressured by your parents to express your views a certain way, tell them it makes you uncomfortable. Ask someone more neutral to help you express yourself.
You don’t have to participate. It is your right to speak up, but it is also your right to stay out of it. If you don't want to give your views, that is perfectly okay.
Your feelings can change. It’s okay if you aren’t sure what you want right now, and it’s okay if your mind changes later. Family changes are big, and it takes time to figure things out.