The Office of the Children’s Lawyer (OCL) is helps protect the welfare and best interests of children involved in legal matters, and plays a crucial role in advocating for children in legal proceedings.
Mission and Values
The primary mission of the Office of the Children’s Lawyer is to provide children with a voice when their rights and welfare are at stake. The OCL’s core values include:
- A Child-Centred Approach: The OCL places the child’s needs and well-being at the forefront of its work, ensuring their perspectives and interests are considered by parties and the court
- Legal Advocacy: The OCL offers legal representation to children in various proceedings, including parenting disputes and child protection cases
- Guidance: The OCL provides children with support and guidance in navigating the legal system, empowering them to make informed decisions about their futures
- Neutrality and Impartiality: The OCL operates independently and impartially
- Confidentiality: The OCL protects the privacy and confidentiality of the child clients
- Collaboration: The OCL collaborates closely with parents, guardians, lawyers, and child protection agencies, to achieve the best outcomes for children
Services Offered
Agents of the Office of the Children’s Lawyer can provide various services, including:
- Legal Representation: In cases where a child’s interests may be affected, the OCL appoints legal counsel to represent the child in court proceedings, ensuring their rights and welfare are adequately protected.
- Assessments and Reports: The OCL may conduct thorough assessments to provide the court with valuable insights into a child’s best interests, offering recommendations to guide judicial decisions.
- Mediation and Dispute Resolution: The OCL participates in mediation and alternative dispute resolution processes to help families find amicable solutions.
- Education and Support: The OCL provides educational resources and support to children and their families, helping them understand their rights and responsibilities within the legal system.
Conclusion
As agent for the OCL, I provide representation for children in parenting and decision-making (formerly known as custody and access) as well as child protection cases.
Contact
Call me at 613-807-2673 or email me at bordescj@gmail.com to set up an appointment. Most of my meetings are online via Zoom, but if necessary I can also meet you in the community, especially if you live in Almonte, Pakenham, and nearby areas.
Claudia Bordes 