Adjournments

Introduction

There may be times when a hearing needs to be adjourned. 

Procedure

Case practitioner tasks

• Obtain advice as early as possible from a CPLO solicitor or divisional solicitor about seeking an adjournment. 
• After determining there is an appropriate reason for adjournment, the solicitor will seek verbal consent or draft a letter seeking written consent from the lawyers for the child, the child’s parents and any other represented party to the proceeding.
• As soon as possible, advise the family that an adjournment will be sought. 
• Seek written consent for the adjournment from self-represented parties. The consent letter should include the following information:
  • name (and relationship to the child, for example maternal grandmother)
  • I understand that I am able to come to court and oppose the making of this order
  • I do not wish to attend court on [insert date]
  • I have had legal advice / I do not wish to get legal advice [delete one]
  • I consent to the adjournment.
• Provide original consent letters for self-represented parties to the CPLO solicitor or divisional solicitor.
  • The solicitor will confirm in writing with the Court and other legal representatives that the adjournment is consented to.
• Contact the Court to arrange security if there are safety issues.
• Complete CRIS requirements including court screen and record of activity, decisions and rationales.

Supervisor tasks

• Provide ongoing supervision and consultation.

Team manager tasks

• Endorse the decision for an adjournment to be sought.