FGC (Family Group Conference)
Here’s what to expect from the FGC process:
- A mediator will talk to each parent, professional and extended family/friends that might be able to be a part of the plan.
- These same people will attend a large group meeting that will last several hours, and may in some case most of the day.
- Everyone meets together to review the families’ strengths, the challenges they face, and the impacts of the child welfare case. The group will list what will need to be addressed in the plan to e approved by the professionals and judge.
- The professionals leave the meeting, and the family works together to develop a plan that addresses the challenges identified earlier in the meeting. This usually occurs around mealtime and lunch is provided.
- After the family has developed a plan (or perhaps a Plan A and Plan B), the professional return to the meeting to review the plan. At this point, details are usually added to add clarity and the plan may be adjusted by the group with the input of the family.
- After the plan is approved by the family and professionals, Mediation West prepares a report for the judge that includes the family plan.
