Panel Discussion: Child Safety & Resist/Refuse Dynamics
Granite Ballroom Hon. Catherine Conklin, Hon. Joanna Sagers, Robin Kirkham, JD, Chelsy Phelps, LCSW, T.R. Morgan, JD Moderated by Hon. Michelle Blomquist Target Audience: Everyone
2:30 PM - 3:45 PMFri
GRANITE BALLROOM
Faculty
Michelle Blomquist
T.R. Morgan
Special Master
Hon. Catherine Conklin
Judge, 2nd District Court
Chelsy Phelps, LMFT
President-Elect, Utah AFCC
Unified Family Therapy
Robin Kirkham, JD
This multidisciplinary panel brings together judicial officials, a guardian ad litem, a special master, and a therapist to examine the complex and often highly contested dynamics that arise when a child resists or refuses contact with a parent. Panelists will explore these cases from legal, child-advocacy, dispute-resolution, and clinical perspectives, with particular attention to distinguishing between legitimate concerns, relationship dynamics, developmental factors, and allegations of undue influence or interference. The discussion will address how courts and professionals can evaluate competing narratives without prematurely adopting labels or assumptions, assess the child’s voice and best interests, and respond appropriately when parent–child contact breaks down. Panelists will also consider the roles, responsibilities, and limits of judicial officers, guardians ad litem, special masters, and mental-health professionals, as well as the challenges of maintaining neutrality while protecting children and preserving appropriate parent–child relationships. Through practical insights and multidisciplinary discussion, the panel will offer strategies for identifying the underlying dynamics, improving communication among professionals, and developing thoughtful, legally and clinically informed approaches to difficult parent–child contact disputes.