Discussing Juvenile Dependency

In a juvenile dependency case, the court determines what will happen to minors who have been abandoned, neglected, or hurt by their parents, foster parents, or other caretakers. A top Los Angeles divorce lawyer explains that juvenile dependency cases may also be brought in situations where the parents/caretakers are not able to sufficiently meet a child's specific needs as a minor.

A typical juvenile dependency case usually begins when a report is filed with a law enforcement agency or social service agency claiming that a child has been neglected, abused, or abandoned. If the agency determines that the child's well-being is in danger, the child may be physically removed from their home and placed in the care of a relative or foster parent until the issue can be addressed by a Los Angeles family lawyer in juvenile court at an appointed time.

According to experienced family attorneys Los Angeles social workers then have 2 days to file a petition asking the court to have the child declared a "dependent of the court." The court will scheduled a hearing where the judge will issue orders about who will have custody over them and how the child will be supervised, and cared for. If the judge decides that your son or daughter is a "dependent of the court," the court can mandate that: either your child must live in a different home under court supervision or your child can return to your home but still remain under court supervision. If you are a parent who feels that your child has been unfairly taken away from you due to a juvenile dependency matter, it is important that you acquire legal representation.

Parents have a right to a trial where they can make their case, and a family law attorney can represent them in court. Their child will also likely be appointed a lawyer to represent them. With the counsel and guidance of professional divorce attorneys Glendale residents can expect the following to take place if there is a trial: the court schedules the trial date at the first hearing and notifies you of the date and time. The social worker assigned to your case files a report with the court that details your case and recommends where your child should live until the next hearing. The social worker works with you to present a case plan to the court which may include: family and individual counseling, courses on parenting, and substance abuse treatment. For more information about juvenile dependency cases, contact your local law professionals to learn more.