Abstract
A collaboration between Hawaii's Family Court and Child Protective Services resulted in statewide adoption of a form of family group conferencing–called ‘Ohana Conferencing–which involves immediate and extended family, child welfare professionals, and others in a process of planning for the safety of children. The authors describe this model, its principles, origins, and format, emphasizing the importance within the conference of private family time apart from professionals. They discuss similarities and differences between ‘Ohana Conferencing and mediation, case conferences, and therapy, ‘Ohana Conferencing changes the relations among court (by diverting cases), family, and professionals; the authors address issues and challenges arising from this shift, such as the role of professionals, confidentiality, and decisions about whether to hold a conference and who may invite or veto attendees.
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