What this guide covers
Document adult records and concerns while reducing the chance that children are pulled into adult conflict, coached, interviewed, or asked to carry messages.
- Keep adult documentation adult-facing
- Use neutral descriptions of child-related events
- Follow applicable orders and professional guidance
Start with the source
Keep the original record and its surrounding context together. Add a short, factual description of what the record contains, who created it, and the date shown on the record. If a detail is missing, label it clearly rather than filling the gap.
Separate the record from your notes
Keep direct source material distinct from user-entered notes, summaries, and allegations. A useful working file lets a reviewer see which statements are attributed, which items are requests or opinions, and which details remain unclear or unproven.
Review before relying on it
Fair-File resources provide organization guidance only. Confirm deadlines, procedure, legal requirements, and the meaning of any order or notice through official sources or a qualified professional.