Practice Note 7 (PN7) Interventions

What is a PN7 Intervention?

Practice Note 7 (PN7) Interventions are used in Family Law cases when decisions involving children are before the Court, and the family is experiencing a high level of conflict.

Parenting Experts — either registered psychologists or registered clinical social workers — conduct these interventions. They have specialized education, training, experience, and ongoing professional development, qualifying them to serve as Court-appointed expert witnesses. Their role is to provide an independent, objective report to assist the Court.

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When is a PN7 Intervention Needed?

PN7 interventions are designed for a small minority of separated or divorcing families where:
✔️ The family is at an impasse
✔️ A Court-ordered assessment is required
✔️ The Court needs assistance from Parenting Experts

Under PN7, the Parenting Expert describes what is happening within the family and/or with the children.
Important: Parenting Experts do not provide opinions about custody, access, or the "best interests" of the child. Their role is to provide factual, limited-scope information to help the Court make informed decisions.

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Purpose of a PN7 Intervention

• To help the Court identify challenges facing the family and offer professional insight into resolving them.

• To bring the Parenting Expert under the jurisdiction and protection of the Court.

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Types of PN7 Interventions

PN7 Interventions typically fall into two categories:

1. Evaluative Interventions

These interventions gather and present information to assist the Court. They may involve:

🔹 Triage Assessment
A preliminary review of the family’s situation, determining whether further intervention is needed.

🔹 Voice of the Child Report
An exploration of the child(ren)’s views, concerns, and needs, alongside relevant input from parents and others.

🔹 Parent Psychological Evaluation
A focused evaluation of a parent's psychological functioning based on specific concerns raised.

🔹 Child/Adolescent Psychological Evaluation
An assessment of the child's psychological well-being, tailored to the specific needs of the case.

🔹 Focused Assessment
A targeted evaluation addressing a particular issue identified by the Court.

What the Assessment Process May Include:

• Interviews with parents and child(ren)

• Interviews with important collateral sources (family, teachers, doctors, etc.)

• Psychological testing

• Review of records and background information

• Preparation of a professional written report for the Court

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2. Therapeutic Interventions

These services support families in reducing conflict and building healthier relationships:

🔹 Educational sessions for parents and/or children
🔹 Mediation services to support better communication
🔹 Individual therapeutic support for one parent
🔹 Post-separation/divorce counseling for both parents
🔹 Counseling for children
🔹 Family counseling (parents and children together)
🔹 Parent-child reunification therapy (remedial facilitated access)
🔹 Parenting coordination services

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How Long Does a PN7 Assessment Take?

The duration of a PN7 intervention varies based on:

• The complexity of the family situation

• The number of people involved

• The amount of background information the Parenting Expert must review

Each case is unique, and timelines will be discussed at the outset of the intervention.

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Need more information?
Our team is here to answer your questions about PN7 Interventions and how they might support your family’s needs.

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Quick Facts: Practice Note 7 (PN7) Interventions

✅ What:
Court-appointed, limited-scope interventions in high-conflict family law cases involving children.

✅ Who:
Conducted by Parenting Experts (registered psychologists or clinical social workers).

✅ Purpose:
Provide independent, factual information to assist the Court — not opinions about custody or access.

✅ When:
Used when families are at an impasse and a Court-ordered assessment is needed.

✅ Services May Include:

• Triage Assessments

• Voice of the Child Reports

• Psychological Evaluations

• Therapeutic Support & Mediation

• Parenting Coordination

✅ Timeline:
Varies depending on case complexity and background review.