PROGRAMME
This programme outline is a guide for the course and is subject to change at the discretion of the organiser.
Module 1A: Therapeutic Justice – Social Science Perspective This module delves into the social science perspective and highlights the importance of Therapeutic Justice (TJ) in minimizing the negative impacts of divorce. It emphasises the role of the lawyer in connecting social science perspectives to divorce and family disputes. Participants learn to tap into their soft skills, holistically assess the family's situation, and consider the viability of therapeutic interventions and alternative dispute resolution methods. The module also highlights the long-term impact of the divorce lawyer's work in supporting clients and their families, aiming for fair and consensual divorce settlements, promoting co-parenting, and addressing access difficulties.
The module highlights the three aims of TJ: (1) holistic and interdisciplinary, to addressing both legal and non-legal needs, (2) restorative and supportive, to repair and support family life, and (3) forward-looking, to help families stabilise and adjust. It highlights the distinguishing features of a TJ-oriented system, including respect for the law and due process, parties' participation, non-adversarial problem-solving, and multi-disciplinary both upstream and downstream. |
3 hours 15 mins |
Module 2: Therapeutic Justice in and out of the Courtroom This module provides a comprehensive understanding of Therapeutic Justice (TJ) in the family justice system. Participants recap current procedures and policies in the Family Justice Court (FJC) and explore various options available to clients, such as multi-disciplinary teams, judge-led approach, expert panels, and social services. They learn how TJ hardware and software work together to achieve a TJ system and interpret substantive and procedural law in line with TJ-oriented outcomes. The module emphasizes the evolving nature of the TJ ecosystem and the importance of collaboration among stakeholders. Participants gain insights into the role of family lawyers in promoting the philosophy of caring for the family and supporting clients through the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme and counseling sessions. They also learn how to assist the court constructively as a TJ-minded counsel and differentiate between TJ and non-TJ approaches in courtroom advocacy. By the end of the module, participants understand the direction of the family justice system towards a TJ-oriented approach and the benefits it offers. |
6 hours 30 mins |
Module 3: The TJ Practitioner This module focuses on developing and applying interpersonal skills necessary for a collaborative, Therapeutic Justice (TJ) approach in family practice. Participants learn to enhance their mental health literacy to identify red flags in clients' mental health and provide appropriate referrals. They gain an understanding of effective interpersonal skills, such as active listening, motivational interviewing, trust-building, and empathy, for managing clients. |
3 hours 45 mins
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