Determining the direction of the child: choice of protective measures

When the DPJ determines that a child’s security or development is compromised, it continues its intervention. Determining the direction of the child is a clinical process that involves assessing the motivation and ability of the child and the parents to correct the problematic situation and, whenever possible, obtaining their agreement on the measures that may be taken. It determines whether youth protection services will be provided on a voluntary basis or whether the matter must be brought before the court.

Voluntary measures:

If the child and the parents acknowledge the problems and agree to take the necessary steps to correct the situation, the DPJ may propose a voluntary measures agreement. The agreement must generally be signed by both parents, by the child if they are 14 years of age or older, and by the DPJ. A voluntary measures agreement is signed for a maximum period of one year and may be renewed once or twice.

Court intervention:

If no agreement is reached, the DPJ must refer the matter to the court. The court must first determine whether the child’s security or development is compromised. If so, it may order various measures provided for under the law.

Lawyers from the CISSS du Bas-Saint-Laurent prepare an application with the DPJ and represent the DPJ in court. The DPJ must submit an assessment report to the court, and the court may require additional expert assessments (e.g., medical, psychological or psychiatric evaluations). The child and the parents are represented by separate lawyers.