PARENTING PROGRAM EXPANDED TO ALL QUEEN’S BENCH COURT HOUSES

A program that helps parents understand the effects of family legal disputes on their children is now mandatory in all Queen's Bench Court locations in Saskatchewan. Until now, the Ministry of Justice's Parenting After Separation and Divorce program was only required at Queen's Bench locations in Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert and Yorkton.

Parents must take the course if they have children and go to court to resolve their dispute. If parents do not use the courts to resolve their dispute, the course is not required. The focus of the program is to show clients the negative impact of family disputes on their children.

"I am very pleased to see this program become a mandatory part of family law court proceedings where children are involved," Justice Minister Don Morgan said. "The success rate of this program speaks volumes about its value to children and families in these difficult circumstances."

The Parenting after Separation and Divorce program has been well-received by judges, lawyers and clients. A survey of parents who attended the program shows a 90 per cent approval rate. Many family law lawyers indicate that settlements are often achieved after their clients have participated in the program.

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For more information, contact:

Laur'Lei Silzer
Justice and Attorney General
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0775
Email: laurlei.silzer@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-535-0074