This bill, called the Keeping Children Safe Act, changes the Divorce Act to better protect children and survivors of family violence. It introduces rules for legal advisers and courts to consider risks of violence and coercive control (a pattern of controlling and abusive behavior). The bill allows courts to get information from children directly and states that courts should not assume family violence has ended just because spouses are separated. It also clarifies how courts should decide parenting arrangements, especially when there are concerns about violence or manipulation. The bill aims to make divorce and child custody decisions safer and fairer, focusing on children's best interests and victims' safety.
If you are going through a divorce, this bill could influence how family courts handle your case. Lawyers will need to check for family violence risks and make safety plans if needed. Courts will more carefully evaluate how abuse or control may impact children and the parenting arrangements. They will also be allowed to hear directly from children about their preferences if it is safe and appropriate. The bill makes clear that violence does not automatically stop just because a couple separates. Overall, the bill aims to protect children and anyone affected by family violence during divorce.
Data unavailable. The bill mentions that legal advisers will have new responsibilities to assess risks and help develop safety plans. Courts may need more resources to gather evidence from children and to train judges on understanding family violence. Additional costs for governments are not specified in the bill or the fiscal note.
Supporters say this bill will improve safety for children and victims of family violence. It emphasizes that courts and lawyers must consider trauma, coercive control, and the risk of ongoing violence. Proponents argue that allowing courts to hear directly from children and to avoid stereotypes will lead to fairer decisions. They believe these changes will help prevent children from being exposed to ongoing abuse or manipulation, and will uphold international agreements protecting women and children's rights.
Critics warn that the bill’s new rules could make divorce or custody disputes more complicated and lengthy. They argue that requiring courts to explore risks may delay decisions or make them less predictable. Opponents also worry that giving children a voice might not always be safe or appropriate, especially if not carefully managed. Some suggest these changes could be used to unfairly limit a parent’s contact with their children, even in cases where violence is not a factor. Data unavailable.