ICLs act for and promote best interests of children in cases under Family Law Act 1975
Tasmania Legal Aid (TLA) has released the independent children’s lawyer (ICL) panel document, which goes over the expectations, requirements, and responsibilities of ICLs and the process for complaints and quality assurance relating to these practitioners.
“Tasmania is fortunate to have a dedicated and highly skilled panel of ICLs who provide exceptional representation for children across the state,” TLA said in the news release announcing the document’s issuance.
The ICL panel consists of private and in-house lawyers to be allocated with ICL appointments. ICLs act for children in family law cases under the Family Law Act 1975, serve as a go-between between these children and the courts, and seek to promote their best interests so that these children are heard out, respected, and well-informed about the proceedings.
“For any practitioners who are interested in becoming an ICL, now is the ideal time to explore that possibility,” the TLA said. “Our panel ICLs often speak of how rewarding this work is, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives.”
According to the TLA, the newly released document aims to:
The TLA explained that the document’s development reflected insights based on consultations with judges, experienced ICLs, representatives from the Office of the Commissioner for Children and Young People, and other stakeholders.
The TLA noted that the document is meant to complement the Independent Children’s Lawyers Practice Standards and Guidelines (PSG), which discusses the best practices for acting on behalf of children and stresses the importance of having a child-focused and trauma-informed practice.
The TLA expressed its commitment to guiding and supporting ICLs in their work. The TLA noted that one of the focus areas of its strategic plan for 2023–2027 is advocating for children and young people.
