If a parent does not attend a court hearing related to child protection, what may occur?

If a parent does not attend a court hearing related to child protection, one potential outcome is the issuance of a subpoena for a director to appear. This reflects the court's effort to ensure that all relevant parties are present during proceedings that are crucial for determining the welfare of a child.

In cases of child protection, the absence of a parent can signal to the court that important testimony or information is missing. As a result, the court may take steps to compel the attendance of someone who can provide insights or context, such as a director involved in the case. This is part of the judicial process to ensure that all necessary evidence is presented, enabling the court to make informed decisions regarding the child’s safety and welfare.

Other outcomes, such as dismissing the case or rescheduling the hearing, typically depend on various factors, including the reasons for the parent's absence and the judge's discretion. It’s also more common for issues related to non-attendance to be addressed through legal processes instead of criminal charges, which usually require a higher threshold of misconduct.