New Nationwide Network of Legal Counsel for Children Launched

The National Council of Legal Advisers has inaugurated the “Legal Counsel for the Child” project in the Senate, establishing a certified network of specialists to protect children’s rights nationwide.

Specialized Legal Protection for Minors

The project, titled “Legal Counsel for the Child – a national system for the protection of children’s rights in the context of neurodiversity and disability,” is being implemented by the Probare Foundation and the National Council of Legal Advisers (KIRP).

Rather than introducing new legislation, the initiative aims to establish modern standards for providing legal assistance to children, including those who are neurodivergent, disabled, have experienced trauma, or possess unique communication needs.

A Nationwide Certification Network

The program plans to create Poland’s first nationwide network of certified legal advisers specializing in child rights. The network is intended to cover all counties, ensuring consistent access to professional legal aid regardless of a child’s place of residence.

Legal advisers will undergo training to improve communication skills, recognize special needs, facilitate interdisciplinary cooperation, and uphold standards of accessibility and dignity for children involved in legal proceedings.

Addressing the Needs of the Justice System

Children are frequently involved in divorce, family, custody, and support cases, as well as matters regarding foster care, education, and domestic violence. Engaging with the justice system remains a significant challenge for many minors.

Ewelina Cała-Wacinkiewicz, a member of the KIRP presidium, emphasized that children require representation from adults who act with empathy, calm, and understanding to navigate the stress and confusion of court proceedings.