NSW Subpoena for Confidential Documents?

[LisaMareeK]

Hi,

I want to know if you can be subpoenaed for records of confidential notifications made to the Family and Community services child protection helpline, identifying a child being at risk? The subpoena has come from a solicitor of one of the children's parents. I understand police subpoenaing these records is allowed, but solicitors for one of the parents? Can anyone provide an answer for this one?

 

[Rod]

Subpoenas are a court order and generally must be followed else you may find yourself in contempt of court. In some instances you can object to the subpoena however you will likely need legal advice before taking this option.

Ignoring the subpoena is the worst possible option.

 

[Tim W]

Yes those documents can be subpoenaed.
If you want to object to the subpoena then
you will almost certainly need a lawyer to help you.

 

[MadFunMum]

I think you'll find that the names of people who have made reports to FACS is concealed in the subpoeaned documents filed with the Court.