Preparing for a CAS Case Conference in Ontario
A case conference is a formal meeting — sometimes at the courthouse, sometimes with a social worker — where all parties review the child's situation and discuss next steps. How you present yourself and what you bring with you matters significantly.
Key deadline: If this is a court-ordered case conference, you must attend or risk the court proceeding without you. Check your court documents carefully for the exact date, time, and location.
What typically happens next
- Attendees typically include a CAS worker, their supervisor or legal counsel, the parents, and sometimes a judge or conference officer.
- The purpose is to identify areas of agreement, areas of dispute, and narrow the issues before a hearing.
- CAS will present their position and any evidence gathered during the investigation.
- Parents have the opportunity to respond, ask questions, and present their own evidence.
- A written summary of agreements and next steps is typically produced after the conference.
Step-by-step: what people in this situation often do
- 1
Confirm the logistics well in advance
Verify the date, time, location, and format (in-person vs. virtual) of the conference. If you have not received formal notice, contact your CAS worker immediately and follow up in writing.
- 2
Organize your documentation binder
Bring printed copies of your service plan completion records, program attendance letters, evidence of stable housing, income documentation, and any positive evidence of your parenting (photos of home visits, letters from family or community members, etc.).
- 3
Prepare a clear, factual statement
Write a brief written statement about the steps you have taken, what has changed since the investigation began, and what you are asking for at this stage. Keep it factual and avoid emotional language.
- 4
Bring a support person if permitted
You may be able to bring a trusted support person (not your lawyer) to the conference. Ask in advance whether this is permitted. A support person can take notes and help you stay calm.
- 5
Take notes during the conference
Write down who said what, any agreements reached, and any next steps assigned. If you disagree with any summary produced after the conference, respond in writing within 48 hours.
Documents you will likely need
- All service plan completion records
- Program attendance letters from providers
- Written references from teachers, doctors, or community members
- Evidence of stable housing (lease, bills, photos of home)
- Visitation logs (dates, times, who was present)
- Any correspondence from CAS over the last 3 months
- Your written statement for the conference
- A copy of any prior court orders
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a lawyer at a case conference?
What happens if I miss a case conference?
Can a case conference lead directly to my child returning home?
What if I disagree with what CAS presents at the conference?
This guide is based on publicly available Ontario child protection procedures. It is not legal advice and does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Quorex is not affiliated with any child welfare agency or government body. If you are in immediate risk, contact legal aid or a duty counsel directly.
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