PACCS Presents Virtual Research Forum on Judicial Decision-Making in False Sexual Abuse Allegations During Family Court Cases

The Professional Alliance for Child Centered Safety (PACCS) will host an online event featuring Janette Hermann, MSocSc, presenting her research on handling false sexual abuse allegations in custody cases. The session, titled "Judicial Decision-Making in False Sexual Abuse Allegations: Placing the Child at the Centre of Justice," examines critical challenges and offers recommendations for child-centered justice.

A Groundbreaking Exploration of Child-Centered Justice
Hermann’s study, based on interviews with South African magistrates, explores how courts can remain child-centered despite biases, trauma and complex evidence. Key themes include judicial bias, conflicting expert evidence, trauma-informed procedures and strategies to restore the child’s voice in legal processes.

“Forensic social work plays a vital role in this process: bridging the gap between psychological truth and legal evidence, ensuring that every voice, especially that of the child, is both heard and protected,” said Janette Hermann, MSocSc, Criminal Justice Social Work. “The findings from this research serve as a reminder that justice is not only about outcomes but about the processes through which those outcomes are reached. By adopting a trauma-informed, evidence-based and collaborative approach, we can create systems that protect children, support families and uphold the integrity of the justice process.”

About the Presenter
Janette Hermann is a registered Social Worker and Forensic Practitioner at the Trauma-Informed and Child-Centred Private Practice, as well as at the Teddy Bear Foundation and National Centre for Child Protection in South Africa. Her extensive expertise includes forensic child abuse assessments and trauma-informed interventions. Hermann’s academic research at the University of Cape Town focused on judicial decision-making in false sexual abuse allegations, offering vital insights into safeguarding children's rights.

Event Details:
Date: October 26, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM EDT
Format: Virtual presentation and discussion
Registration: Zoom Meeting Registration

Join PACCS and Be Part of the Change
PACCS is actively seeking practitioners, advocates, and professionals committed to reform and child centered practices. As a founding member, you will enjoy prioritized access to exclusive trainings, research insights, and leadership opportunities. Benefits include access to a curated research library, weekly Lunch & Learn sessions, monthly reunification events, and our innovative Membership Circle App for networking and resource sharing.

Be a pioneer in shaping the future of family court reform - join PACCS today. Join the PACCS Community to become a founding member or register as a new member. Together, we can create systems that prioritize children's safety and promote healing.

About PACCS

The Professional Alliance for Child Centered Safety (PACCS) is a 501(c)(3) practitioner-led network dedicated to reforming family court practices to prioritize child safety and wellbeing. PACCS connects clinicians, attorneys, researchers, and advocates to collaborate on evidence-based, child-first reforms.

Media Contact:
Rael LaPenta
[email protected]
www.paccs.global