At your family guidance order application hearing

Arriving in court for your hearing

On the day of your family guidance order (FGO) application hearing, you should:

• Arrive early and find your way to the venue.
  • Refer to the building directory for more information.
• Confirm your case is heard in the venue you are about to enter. Inform the court officer before entering, if applicable.
• Dress neatly and decently when attending court.
  • Refer to the visitors' guide for the dress code.
• Speak and conduct yourself in a courteous manner.
  

What to expect

At your FGO application hearing, the judge may order you and your child to attend or complete a family programme.

The judge may also call for a social report on your child to be prepared before deciding on a suitable FGO. While the report is being prepared, your child may be ordered to stay with a fit person or in a place of safety.

After the social report has been submitted to the court, the judge will consider the contents of the social report and discuss the case with two panel advisers. These panel advisors are individuals in the community who are:

• Appointed by the President of Singapore.
• Have vast work experience with children and youths.

Once satisfied that the requirements for an FGO are met, the court may make the FGO. Find out the FGOs the court may make.

How you can help your child

Going through the steps as stated in an FGO can be a stressful experience for you and your child. As your relationship with your child may be affected, you may take the following steps to guide your child through this period:

• Ensure your child follows the orders stated in the FGO as their progress depends on this.
• Cooperate with your child’s caseworker so that they can help your child.
• Attend counselling so that you can tackle difficult issues together as a family.
• Attend parenting workshops to improve the way you interact with your child.
• Be sensitive to your child’s needs by listening to your child’s concerns with an open mind.

Resources