Section 32 Assessments
Expert, independent Section 32 assessments for court proceedings — providing clear, child-focused reports to inform judicial decision-making in child welfare cases across Ireland.
What Is a Section 32 Assessment?
A court-directed expert assessment
Under Section 32 of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964 (as inserted by section 63 of the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015), the court may direct that an independent expert assessment of a child or family be carried out, or appoint an expert to determine and convey the child's views.
HAPii provides these assessments with the independence, clinical rigour, and child-centred focus that court proceedings demand. Our Section 32 reports are written in clear, accessible language and are designed to assist the court in making decisions that serve the best interests of the child.
Section 32 assessments are typically directed in proceedings involving:
- Custody and guardianship disputes
- Access and contact arrangements
- Welfare of the child in family law proceedings
- Child protection and care matters
- Care plan reviews and contested discharge applications
- Child welfare concerns requiring independent expert input
What the Assessment Covers
The child's welfare and needs
A thorough assessment of the child's emotional, developmental, relational, and psychological needs — informed by direct work with the child using age-appropriate, play-based, and creative methods where needed.
Family relationships and dynamics
Structured observation and interview of relevant family members — examining the quality of parent-child relationships, attachment patterns, and the capacity of key adults to meet the child's needs safely and consistently.
Risk, safety, and protective factors
A balanced, evidence-based analysis of risks and protective factors — including the child's current circumstances, the history of concerns, professional involvement, and the likelihood of change within relevant timescales.
The Assessment Process
Court direction received
HAPii reviews the scope of the assessment, the referral question, required timelines, and any specific matters the court wishes to have addressed.
Documentation review
Review of all relevant court papers, Tusla records, care plans, previous professional reports, and any other material directed or agreed by the parties.
Direct assessment
Structured interviews with parents, carers, and relevant professionals. Direct work with the child using age-appropriate methods. Observation of family interactions where directed.
Report to the court
A comprehensive written report submitted within the court-directed timeframe, presenting findings, analysis, and clear recommendations in language suitable for judicial decision-making.
The Section 32 Report
The report addresses:
- The specific questions directed by the court
- Summary of documentation reviewed
- Findings from interviews, observations, and direct work
- The child's expressed or observed wishes and feelings
- Analysis of risk, safety, and protective factors
- Assessment of parental capacity where relevant
- Evidence-based conclusions and recommendations
Recommendations may address:
- The child's future care arrangements
- Contact frequency, structure, and supervision
- Therapeutic supports for the child or family
- Safeguarding requirements
- Conditions or timescales for review
- Any other matter directed by the court
HAPii assessors are available to give oral evidence in court where required.
Fees & Referral
Fees
Fees are agreed in advance and reflect the scope of the assessment, the number of parties involved, documentation requirements, and whether court attendance or oral evidence is required.
Payment terms:
- 50% deposit on receipt of court direction
- Balance invoiced on report delivery
- Court attendance fees agreed separately where applicable
- Invoices and receipts provided
Referral Process
- Court direction issued naming HAPii or directing an independent Section 32 assessment.
- Solicitor or Tusla contacts HAPii to confirm availability and scope.
- HAPii confirms acceptance, timelines, and fee structure within 2 working days.
- Assessment commences on receipt of all required documentation and signed consents.
Required documentation:
- Court direction or order
- Signed consents from all relevant parties
- Relevant court papers and pleadings
- Tusla records and care plans (where applicable)
- Previous professional reports
Ready to make a referral?
Contact HAPii to discuss a Section 32 assessment direction, confirm availability, and agree timelines and fees.