Children require protection from adults until they become grow ups and able to provide for themselves. However, sometimes they go to court because they have been hurt or not taken care of by their parents. This is called juvenile dependency. The court then comes in to protect the child, at which point the minor is said to be court dependent.
When this happens the minor is exposed to a variety of options. One, the minor may have to live with relatives or another family for a while. This is a foster care arrangement. Also, the child may still live with their parents but under court supervision. If the parent can later convince the court that they can properly care for the minor, the child can move back home. This is called reunification.
Sometimes, however, guardians may lack the capability to give their children a safe and secure environment. Such a case may force the judge to find the child another home where the child will be safe. Simply put, a permanent plan is made for the child.
Social workers, who are responsible for trying to keep children safe, play a very important role. When children get abused or even neglected, they are the people who take up the task to find them a better home. They ask judges in court so that they decide the best way to assist the child.
The judge usually has the last say in the dependency case. They make the last decision regarding what happens. Judges listen to what is presented and then decide what needs to happen to make the kids safe.
In court, all parties need to be represented. Their representation is done by lawyers. Everyone involved in the case requires one so that they are sufficiently heard in court. Everyone taking part in the case has got the right to be represented by a lawyer in court.
A court appointed special advocated can also be assigned by the court. This is an individual who has volunteered to assist with the dependency case. Mainly, they speak to other individuals, mostly the children, then they retell the court what they have been told already. They spend time with the children, listening to them and trying to learn as much as they can. Aside from that, the advocates also make suggestions about what they think can be done to provide the minor with the best environment.
Children are also very important in the dependency case. Being the most important party, sometimes they can be called in as witnesses. As such, they will be required to answer questions from various quarters. This means that their comfort should be taken care of to ensure they give accurate information when they are called upon.
All parties have got certain responsibilities that should guide them. The case should be taken seriously and all court meetings and hearings should be attended. The treatment plans set by the court should be complied with and should there be any problem whatsoever, the social workers and treatment provider should be informed ahead of time. Involved parties should keep track of the court proceedings and all appointments.
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