Which Child-Voice Report Do You Need?
A Guide to Hear the Child, Views of the Child, and Full Section 211 Reports in BC Family Law
By Benjamin Mandigo
When parents separate or divorce, one of the most important questions is how to make parenting decisions in the best interests of the child. In British Columbia, the courts can consider the child’s own views—but without putting them in the uncomfortable position of testifying in court.
There are three main tools courts use to hear from children:
- Hear the Child interviews – a brief, neutral conversation that captures what the child says, without interpretation.
- Views of the Child reports – an interview that includes some expert analysis of the child’s statements.
- Full Section 211 parenting assessments – a comprehensive report that includes the child’s views, needs, and an evaluation of each parent’s ability to meet those needs.
Each report type offers a different level of depth, cost, and time commitment. Understanding the differences can help parents make informed choices about what best supports their child.
How Do These Reports Give Children a Voice?
Section 211 of the Family Law Act allows a judge to appoint a professional to assess:
- The needs of a child;
- The views of a child; and/or
- A parent’s ability and willingness to meet the child’s needs.
If the focus is just on the child’s perspective, a Views of the Child report may be ordered. If more context is required, especially regarding parenting ability or family dynamics, a Full Section 211 assessment is used. Parents also have the option to commission a Hear the Child interview, which simply records the child’s words without expert opinion.
Comparing the Report Types
A helpful way to understand these three options is through metaphor:
- A Hear the Child interview is like a microphone – it captures the child’s voice as-is.
- A Views of the Child report is like a spotlight – it highlights the child’s views and includes expert commentary.
- A Full Section 211 assessment is like a full stage production – it presents the entire family story with recommendations for what happens next.
| Feature | Hear the Child Interview | Views of the Child Report | Full Section 211 Parenting Assessment |
| Purpose | Captures the child’s voice with no added opinion | Includes interpretation of the child’s views | Comprehensive analysis of child’s needs and parenting ability |
| Prepared By | Trained neutral (e.g., lawyer, counsellor) | Clinically trained, court-approved professional | Specialist such as psychologist or clinical assessor |
| Interviews | One or two with child only | Several with child and limited collateral checks | Multiple with child, parents, and others, including home visits |
| Report Content | Verbatim statements | Summary and analysis of the child’s views | Full narrative with parenting plan recommendations |
| Cost | $500–$3,000 (may be free via public services) | $2,500–$5,000 (can be free or lower cost publicly) | $10,000–$30,000 (publicly funded versions have long waitlists) |
| Timeline | A few days to weeks (up to 6 months publicly) | 6–10 weeks (longer if public) | 4–8 months privately; up to 18 months publicly |
| Intrusiveness | Low – conversational | Moderate – multi-session, some testing possible | High – full evaluation with psychological testing |
| Legal Basis | Admissible under FLA s. 202(a) | Admissible under FLA s. 211(1)(b) | Admissible under FLA s. 211(1)(a)-(c) |
When to Consider Each Option
Hear the Child Interview
Choose this option when:
- Your child is mature and comfortable sharing their views.
- Both parents trust the child’s independence and judgment.
- A quick, low-cost solution is needed.
This is best for lower-conflict cases with older children who can express themselves clearly.
Views of the Child Report
This may be right if:
- You want professional insight into the child’s statements (e.g., is the child being influenced?).
- The case is moderately complex but doesn’t require a full family analysis.
- You’re able to wait a couple of months for results.
This type is helpful when you want context and guidance on how much weight to give the child’s preferences.
Full Section 211 Parenting Assessment
Consider this when:
- There are serious concerns such as mental health, special needs, or family violence.
- Many parenting issues are in dispute and a thorough evaluation is needed.
- You’re preparing for trial or need clear, detailed recommendations.
This option is the most thorough and is usually reserved for complex, high-conflict parenting disputes.
Final Thoughts
Each of these tools offers a way to hear from children respectfully and effectively. The best choice depends on your specific circumstances, the complexity of your family situation, and, above all, what will serve the best interests of your child.
