One voice among many : A qualitative study in family law investigations followed by the new law of violation of a child's integrity

The purpose of this study is to examine how social workers within the field of family law perceive and apply the newly introduced law of violation of a child’s integrity when a parent has been convicted of such offense. Specifically, the study explores how social workers investigate and make recommendations to the court regarding agreement on contact. The aim is a deeper understanding of how law of violation of a child’s integrity is interpreted and constructed within the context of family law investigations. The study is based on semi-structured qualitative interviews with eight social workers who, in their roles as street-level bureaucrats, conduct investigations and make recommendations concerning agreement on contact between children and parents convicted of violation of a child’s integrity. The analysis is grounded in a social constructivist theoretical framework, drawing on theories of professional discretion and childhood sociology, particularly the Lundy model. Findings highlights how professional discretion leads to variations in interpretations, implementation, and assessment practices. The scope of discretion also affects the extent to which children’s agency is acknowledged during investigation. Furthermore, the study reveals that professionals’ views on violence significantly shape their perceptions and action. These factors may ultimately pose risks to legal certainty and the principle of fairness.