Evaluation of the Parents Legal Centre

The objectives of the summative evaluation are as follows: ► collect information regarding the efficiency and effectiveness of the pilot project in order to support recommendations ► assess and report on the client-focussed outcomes of the pilot project ► assess whether the PLC program is supporting clients in achieving early, durable, and collaborative resolutions to their child protection matter [...] The PLC advocate/paralegal provides advocacy and support to PLC clients, including the provision of legal information and support to clients in Collaborative Planning and Decision Making (CPDM) processes, at court, and during negotiations; conducts research and gathers information; consults with the PLC lawyers for the provision of verified legal advice; assists the lawyers in preparation for any [...] The lawyer and advocate/paralegal meet with the client to explain the process, the concerns of the MCFD, and the role of the PLC and how they can help them. [...] Outreach activities were conducted with MCFD and VACFSS to inform their staff of the PLC and its services, and to ask social workers to refer clients to the PLC and to encourage clients to seek the PLC’s assistance prior to court. [...] The experience and professionalism of the PLC staff was viewed as a contributing factor to the successful implementation and operation of the pilot.