Self-represented (T.M.)

This is a child protection proceeding concerning two children.

The court addressed trial readiness issues and the appointment of amicus curiae for the unrepresented mother.

The mother had cycled through three lawyers and was unable to retain counsel despite having a legal aid certificate.

The court appointed amicus to assist in presenting the mother's case at trial, ensuring the proceedings could move forward without further delays and that the children's interests would be protected through a fair and organized trial process.

This child protection trial concerned two boys, N. and D., who had been in the child protection system since infancy due to parental drug addiction and domestic violence.

The Children's Aid Society sought an order for extended society care (crown wardship), while the father, maternal grandmother, and paternal grandparents each proposed alternative plans of care.

The court found that none of the respondents could provide a stable and safe environment due to ongoing drug addiction, emotional volatility, and persistent family conflict that placed the children in loyalty binds.

The maternal grandmother was found to have actively undermined the father's access and court orders.

The paternal grandparents were deemed deluded about their son's capacity.

The court granted the Society's request for extended society care, emphasizing the children's long-term best interests for stability and insulation from conflict, and leaving access decisions to the Society's discretion.