Presented by David Mandel

Family report writers are increasingly asked to assess complex dynamics in cases described as “high conflict.” But not all conflict is mutual — and misidentifying coercive control as simple acrimony can have serious consequences for children and families.

In this session, David Mandel from Safer Together will explore how coercive control and domestic abuse dynamics can be more accurately identified, assessed, and articulated in family law reports. Drawing on international best practice, he will unpack common misconceptions, outline practical assessment considerations, and examine how report writers can distinguish between reciprocal conflict and patterned abuse.

This is an essential professional development session for report writers committed to precision, safety, and evidence-informed practice in complex family systems.