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.