ABSTRACT
The following vignettes represent common dilemmas faced by those assessing parenting. Children express views about their future care that the court must consider but it remains uncertain what validity should be placed on them. Questions might include whether the child is old enough to understand the issues, whether their views are excessively influenced by the vested interests of a parent, or whether the child’s strong wishes should be respected if they are contradicted by the conclusions of professionals assessing their welfare needs.
