The mother (B.J.) brought a motion seeking an order for family reunification/reintegration therapy involving herself, the father (D.M.), and their child (S.M.).
The father and the Office of the Children's Lawyer opposed the motion, citing the child's strong and consistent views against contact with the mother.
The court found that the child's views were significantly influenced by the father, who displayed a lack of willingness to support the child's relationship with the mother and a disregard for judicial process.
Despite the child's stated reluctance, the court determined that reunification therapy was in the child's best interests, given the profound negative influence exerted by the father and the potential long-term negative effects on the child's emotional and psychological well-being.
The motion was granted, ordering all parties to attend and participate in the therapy, with costs to be shared equally.
