Assumption: "If Cafcass talks to my child, they'll make them choose between me and their other parent."
1 min readThis content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
What People Expect
Parents sometimes worry that a Cafcass officer meeting their child will put the child on the spot and force them to pick a side.
Court Reality
Cafcass officers gather a child's wishes and feelings using age-appropriate methods, talking directly with older children or using drawing and play with younger ones, but they do not pressure a child or require them to choose between their parents. The aim is to understand the child's views, not to extract a decision.
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The Gap?
"If Cafcass talks to my child, they'll make them choose between me and their other parent."
Court Reality
Cafcass officers gather a child's wishes and feelings using age-appropriate methods, talking directly with older children or using drawing and play with younger ones, but they do not pressure a child or require them to choose between their parents. The aim is to understand the child's views, not to extract a decision.
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