Children in Care and Protection matters can attend the hearing if they wish, but do not have to.
Parents and guardians are required to attend the hearing if they are contesting the matter. If parents/guardians do not attend, then final orders may be made in their absence.
If you know that you are unable to attend a hearing, you should contact your lawyer as soon as possible. If you are not represented, you should contact the Youth Court Registry. If you are unable to attend Court due to illness, you will need to provide a medical certificate to the Court as soon as possible and you should advise the Court in advance.