Do You Really Need a Section 211 Report in Family Law Parenting Disputes?

Do You Really Need a 211 Report?

The purpose of providing this summary of a 211 report is to help you understand that requesting one can have a significant emotional impact on the entire family. I’m not saying it’s never needed—sometimes it is—but please consider carefully whether it’s truly necessary before making the request.

What Is a Section 211 Report? Section 211 reports are court-ordered assessments used in complex family law disputes where parents cannot reach agreement on parenting arrangements. These reports are prepared by neutral professionals who evaluate the situation and provide judges with objective information about the children and parents involved.

According to Section 211(1) of the Family Law Act, a court may appoint someone to assess: The needs of a child in relation to the family law dispute The child’s views regarding the family law dispute A party’s ability and willingness to meet parenting responsibilities

Views of the Child Reports

These focused reports capture what children say about their preferences for living arrangements and time with each parent. They are typically brief documents that center on the child’s expressed wishes.

Comprehensive Section 211

Reports These in-depth reports provide a thorough analysis that includes:

The child’s needs and best interests
The child’s views and preferences
Each parent’s capabilities and parenting approach
Home environment assessments
Detailed recommendations for parenting arrangements

Who Can Prepare Section 211 Reports?

Two types of professionals can write these reports:

Family Justice Counsellors (No Cost Option)

Provincial employees working at Family Justice Centres throughout BC
Prepare both types of Section 211 reports at no charge
Also offer counselling, legal education, and mediation services
Complete mandatory family violence training
Do not use psychological testing in their assessments
May have waiting periods due to high demand

Private Assessors (Fee-for-Service Option)

Licensed professionals including social workers, psychologists, and clinical counsellors
Often produce more detailed reports that may include psychological testing
Charge professional fees (approximately $15,000 for a comprehensive report)
Additional costs may apply for court testimony or second opinions
Payment arrangements vary – may be covered by one parent or split between both
Court appearance fees are typically billed separately
May also have waiting periods

Daniel Mandelbaum

CERTIFIED FAMILY MEDIATOR – JUSTICE INSTITUTE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

I discovered that I was born to mediate and collaborate, as I was – and still am – the individual that my friends and family call on to resolve any conflicts that may arise.

Do You Really Need a Section 211 Report in Family Law Parenting Disputes? - Family Mediation CenterFamily Mediation Center