Tips on what to do before you go to court

• Get and keep copies of the Presentation Form, the Report to Court, and any written reasons for removal of your child that the social worker may have given you. Find out as much as the social worker has permission to tell you about where your child is going, and details about the foster home and court appearance dates.
• Immediately ask the social worker how you can see and talk to your child while he or she is in care and how to communicate with the foster parents about your child's needs and habits (for example, diet, discipline, and health issues). Pack and send favourite toys, adequate clothes, school books, etc., as soon as possible.
• If the following are important to you, ask for your child to be kept in a home of the same religion, culture, and sexual orientation as you; to be close to you (within easy access); to stay in his or her own school; to see your family doctor; to have access to grandparents and other relatives; and to be returned to you at the earliest possible time.
• If you don't have a lawyer, get one immediately. Find out who else will get to know your personal information (for example, teacher, doctor, public health nurse). Ask what the limits of confidentiality are. Remember to keep records, with dates, of everything. Keep everything in one notebook or file, including records of your lawyer visits and his or her advice, and copies of all court-related documents.
• If your child is removed against your wishes, work with your lawyer and advocate to develop a plan for your child’s care and return to you, and to end your involvement with the ministry (if that's your goal). Include your child in all plans (if he or she is old enough). You can also ask the social worker for a "letter of expectation" describing what you must do to get your children back.