Section 32 & 47 Reports
Expert, impartial reports on the welfare of a child, prepared for the court in family law proceedings — with clear findings and reasoned recommendations in the child's best interests.
What are Section 32 and 47 reports?
A Section 32 report is an expert report procured by the court under Section 32 of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964 (as inserted by the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015). Under this provision the court may direct an expert to prepare a report on any question affecting the welfare of a child, and/or to ascertain and convey the child's views.
These reports help the court make decisions in guardianship, custody and access matters by providing an independent, evidence-based assessment of what is in the child's best interests. Our reports are balanced, thorough and written to withstand scrutiny.
Closely related, a Section 47 report is procured by the court under Section 47 of the Family Law Act 1995, allowing the court to obtain a report on any question affecting the welfare of a child in proceedings such as judicial separation or divorce. Our consultants prepare both Section 32 and Section 47 welfare reports.
What's involved
Court direction
The court directs a report under Section 32 and defines the specific questions to be addressed.
Meeting the child & family
We meet the child and the relevant parties, using age-appropriate communication with the child.
Gathering evidence
We review records and speak with relevant professionals to build a full, balanced picture.
Assessing welfare
We evaluate the court's questions against the child's welfare and best interests.
The report
We file a clear, impartial report with findings and recommendations, and give evidence in court where required.
Related services
Why Gallore
- Extensive experience preparing court reports and giving professional evidence.
- Complete independence from all parties, ensuring an impartial assessment.
- Child-centred analysis grounded in child development and attachment theory.
- Clear, reasoned, defensible recommendations the court can rely on.
- Nationwide coverage, from our base in Longford.
Discuss a case
Talk to our team about a referral, timescale or the right consultant for your case.