The DPJ (Youth Protection Services) is asking me to sign a voluntary measures agreement regarding my child's case. What does it entail if I sign it?

Signing a voluntary measures agreement has serious implications for the parent who enters into it. Indeed, for a voluntary measures agreement to be implemented, it is first necessary for the parents to acknowledge that their child's safety and development are compromised and that intervention by the Youth Protection Services (DPJ) is required to end the compromised situation.

Signing such an agreement expresses a genuine commitment to collaborate with the Director of Youth Protection and to actively participate in the measures implemented to end the situation that jeopardizes the child's safety or development. To learn more about this topic, you can consult our article: What does it actually mean to collaborate and actively participate in the measures?

In other words, signing a voluntary measures agreement goes far beyond a simple commitment to cooperate. Once the agreement is signed, it may become difficult, before the Court, to later argue that the facts described were inaccurate or exaggerated at the time of signing. This acknowledgment is recorded in the DPJ file and may serve as a basis for future interventions, particularly if the situation does not improve or if the agreement is not complied with and the matter is brought before the Court.

That said, a voluntary agreement can also be an advantageous option in certain situations. Among other things, it can help avoid a legal process, which is often longer and sometimes more stressful. Furthermore, it can expedite the implementation of necessary services and support for the family, while offering parents a more flexible framework for addressing the situation.

A voluntary measures agreement can last up to one year and may be renewed for an additional one-year period. It can also be terminated at any time by a parent who no longer agrees to it, or by the Youth Protection Services (DPJ), in the event of non-compliance with the commitments or a new situation that could compromise a child's safety or development. In these cases, a judge of the Court of Québec, Unified Family Tribunal, Youth Division , will decide the matter.

That's why it's essential to fully understand what you're signing. To that end, you have ten (10) days to make an informed decision, with or without legal advice.

After reading this article, if you have any questions or wish to be assisted by our services, you can contact us at 438-838-6638 extension 2.

This article was written by Me Lysanne Vermette. Learn more about her practice and the legal services she offers.