Practice Note 7 Interventions

When parenting disputes arise in family law matters, the Court’s primary concern is the best interests of the child. In Alberta, one of the tools the Court may rely on to help determine the child’s best interests is a Practice Note 7 (“PN7”) Intervention.

A PN7 Intervention involves appointing a qualified professional, such as a psychologist or social worker, to provide insight into issues affecting children in the context of parenting disputes. This PN7 assessor is considered an expert who is qualified to provide the Court with impartial, informed information to help guide decisions about children’s needs and well-being.

What is a PN7 Intervention?

Under PN7, the Court can order a professional assessor to become involved in a family matter to evaluate or assist with parenting arrangements. These professionals can assess family dynamics, interview parents and children, and provide their recommendations to the Court.

The role of a PN7 assessor is to be neutral. They are not advocates for either parent but are the Court’s expert. Their role is to provide the Court with information and recommendations focused on the child’s best interests.

Types of PN7 Interventions

The scope of a PN7 Intervention can vary and can be tailored to each family’s specific needs and circumstances. There are several forms that a PN7 can take, including:

• Evaluative Interventions: To provide the Court with detailed assessments and recommendations on parenting arrangements.
• Therapeutic Interventions: Focused on helping families address communication or conflict that affects children.
• Voice of the Child Reports: Allowing children to have their perspectives presented in a safe and neutral way.

Each intervention is shaped by a Court Order and is tailored to the unique needs of the family.

Why Do Courts Use PN7 Interventions?

Parenting disputes are often complex and emotionally charged. Judges recognize that they may not have the expertise to assess a child’s psychological, emotional, or developmental needs without an unbiased opinion. A PN7 Intervention also allows the Court to hear from an independent professional who is trained in assessing the situation in an appropriate way, to produce an unbiased and reasoned report. This helps inform parenting decisions in a way that is more balanced, and centered on what is best for the child.

In many cases, PN7 interventions also helps prevent children from being caught in the middle of conflict and encourages parents to shift their focus away from disputes with each other and toward their child’s needs.

What Parents Can Expect from the PN7 Process

If a PN7 Intervention is ordered in your case, you can expect to meet with the appointed professional. They may also meet with your co-parent, your children, and sometimes other important figures in your child’s life, such as medical professionals, coaches, or other caregivers.

The assessor may observe interactions between parents and children. They will then provide a report or recommendations to the Court, and provide recommendations based on the best interests of the children involved. Judges often place significant weight on these recommendations when making parenting decisions.

Conclusion

A PN7 Intervention can be a pivotal part of a family law case in Alberta. While the process may feel intimidating, it is designed to help the Court make child-centered, informed decisions.

With the right guidance and legal support, parents can approach the process with confidence, ensuring their child’s well-being remains the focus.