Information for parents in the dialogue process

The dialogue process is a voluntary alternative to having your case handled in a formal hearing before the Child Welfare Tribunal. Instead of going through a formal procedure in a Tribunal hearing, you, the child welfare services, and the lawyers are invited to take part in conversations where you explore solutions together that support what is best for the child.
All parties must give their consent, and you may withdraw your consent at any time.

The goals of the dialogue process are:
• to improve dialogue and cooperation between you and the child welfare services
• to explore solutions that meet the child’s needs
• to find solutions that support all parties without compromising the best interests of the child.
 

Before the meeting
• You may bring a support person if all parties agree.
• Important information is sent via your lawyer.
• Children who are not parties may be offered a voluntary child conversation.
• Children who are parties may be offered a conversation in a pre meeting.
 

Who usually takes part in the meeting
• the parents
• the child welfare services
• the lawyers
• children who are parties (if they wish to participate)
• an expert 
• a support person, if relevant (as an observer)
 

During the meeting
• You share what is important to you.
• Everyone may ask questions.
• Time is set aside for you to speak with your lawyer during the meeting.
 

You may agree to try out a solution for a short period — for example, adjusted contact arrangements or new measures.
A temporary arrangement is only started if it is in the best interests of the child.
 

• Agreement on voluntary measures → the child welfare services withdraw the case
• Agreement on coercive measures → the Tribunal chair decides the case
• No agreement → the case proceeds to a regular Tribunal hearing
 

In some situations, a dialogue process may be offered when you have appealed an emergency decision.
In these cases, slightly different rules apply, including that the process must be completed within three weeks.