Concurrent Planning and the Concurrent Planning Assessment (CPA)
0080-507.20 | Revision Date: 11/3/2021
Overview
This policy guide provides instructions on concurrent planning for children under the supervision of the Department who are in out-of-home care, including how to activate the permanency track. It also details how family history information should be gathered and documented for concurrent planning.
This policy guide was updated from the 03/06/20 version to change the timeframe for the completion of the concurrent planning assessment (CPA) for cases that are denied family reunification and for cases that will successfully reunify. Also, gender neutral language was added.
POLICY
Concurrent Planning
Concurrent planning is a case management method used to support timely and legal permanence within a specific time frame. As soon as the decision has been made for a child to enter placement, concurrent planning emphasizes initiation and/or completion of permanency tasks to resolve a child's temporary status. When a child enters placement, reunification is the primary goal, unless it is a Fast Track to Permanency (FTP) case where no family reunification services are ordered, adoption or legal guardianship are secondary goals. Concurrent planing focuses on achieving family reunification, adoption, or legal guardianship for the child as soon as possible. Legal permanency is achieved when a child is successfully reunited with their parent(s), is adopted, or obtains a legal guardian.
Concurrent planning:
Identifies and creates alternative permanent plans for children who cannot safely return home.
Assists efforts to provide both Family Reunification (FR) and permanency planning services.
If and when it is determined that family reunification is no longer in the child's best interest, concurrent planning ensures that an alternative path to permanence is underway to ensure that a permanent home is found for the child.
Assists CSWs in addressing case plans, court reports, and permanency planning.
Concurrent Planning focuses specifically on the following:
Identifying relatives and siblings
Engaging families and drawing on their strengths
Developing “resource families” who are committed to working toward family reunification
Providing legal permanence if safe family reunification is not successful
Notifying parents of their option to participate in adoptive planning and to voluntarily relinquish the child for adoption
Initiating and completing permanency tasks as soon as the child enters placement to resolve the child’s temporary status without delay
Using ongoing assessments and case planning
Maintaining an ongoing record of the child’s history, from the beginning of the case, including background information about their birth parents
Sharing all medical, developmental and psychological information and evaluations with appropriate parties. Sharing of information must be in compliance with existing confidentiality laws including Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA).
Full disclosure is a key component of concurrent planning. Full disclosure entails and on-going discussion with the parents regarding their progress in meeting their case plan goals and the consequent results. All families must be given information about the detrimental effects on children who do not have permanency and the ways that families can support the child’s permanency.
Concurrent planning incorporates input and recommendations as discussed through the Child and Family Team process.
Concurrent Planning Assessment (CPA)
The Concurrent Planning Assessment (CPA) is the tool used by DCFS to address the permanency needs of the child. The case-carrying CSW initiates the CPA and the assigned Resource Family Support and Permanency Division (RFSPD) CSW completes the CPA. Prior to recommending denial of family reunification services and no later than ninety (90) days prior to recommending to terminate family reunification services, complete the CPA, unless ordered by the court to provide the CPA at an earlier stage in the case.The CPA:
Identifies an alternative permanent plan for the child
Identifies a resource or prospective adoptive family
Ensures early activation of the alternative permanent plan when it is adoption
The CPA is required for Family Reunification (FR) cases with court dependency. The CPA is not required for the following cases:
Cases without dependency
Voluntary Family Maintenance
Voluntary Family Reunification
Youth eighteen (18) years old and over, unless court-ordered
Although a CPA is not typically required since a FR usually terminates at age eighteen (18), there is an exception where the court may order adoption of the NMD by an adult determined to be the NMD's personal connection at the request of the NMD per WIC Section 366.21(f).
The CPA contains information that is confidential. In the case of prospective adoptive parents, this may include identifying information such as names, addresses and telephone numbers. When sending the CPA to Court, staff must redact confidential information in all copies of the CPA except for the copy going to the Judge.
For 2PEN FTP cases, Emergency Response Command Post (ERCP), the CPA is submitted by the assigned case-carrying CSW.
The CPA must be completed within five (5) business days of the detention hearing by the ER CSW or case-carrying CSW.
The RFSPD CSW must review the CPA within five (5) business days of submission.
Alternative Permanency Planning
The most permanent legal alternative plan for the child must be pursued. When family reunification does not happen, legal permanency must be achieved through adoption or legal guardianship with relatives (Kin-GAP). This is known as an alternative permanency planning.
The case-carrying CSW and the RFSPD CSW must collaborate in identifying and activating an alternative permanency plan.
If there is a disagreement on the identified plan, DCFS staff must employ the CFT process until a resolution is achieved.
Once the alternative plan becomes the case plan, any subsequent changes to the case plan must be made through case conference among the case-carrying CSW, RFSPD CSW, and their respective SCSWs.
Legal guardianship is one of the permanent plans available for children when family reunification is not achieved. A legal guardian is assessed as to their ability to, among other things, exercise proper care and control of the child, accept legal and financial responsibility for the child; and provide the commitment, willingness, and ability to raise the child. While the Court has the option to keep jurisdiction open after granting legal guardianship, the general expectation is that a family will exit the court and child welfare systems when legal guardianship is granted.
For families whose cases remain open with continued court jurisdiction, the Court and the Department continue to remain involved in their lives. Terminating jurisdiction and closing the cases, when it would otherwise be appropriate and safe to do so, will allow the children/families to have a better sense of normalcy.
Staff should refer to the Kinship Guardianship Assistance Payment Program and form DCFS 5620, Comparison of Legal and Financial Benefits, Adoption, Legal Guardianship, Fit & Willing Relative and Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement, to provide families with accurate and comprehensive information regarding the different permanency options. This allows families to make informed decisions that result in the most appropriate recommendations to the court.
The Kin-GAP policy explains the Kin-GAP eligibility criteria, including the expanded definition of "relative" (referred to as fictive kin) for purposes of Federal Kin-GAP funding, which includes an approved Nonrelative Extended Family Member (NREFM), an Indian Custodian or child's tribal member, or a foster parent who meets certain criteria.
Non-related legal guardians can qualify as fictive kin only when entering the Kin-GAP program and must have been eligible for six consecutive months of federal funding prior to the termination of court jurisdiction. The SOC 369 and SOC 369A forms must be signed prior to the court granting guardianship to avoid losing federal funding eligibility. Revenue Enhancement will need the original forms to process Kin-GAP.
In the event that the Court keeps jurisdiction open after granting legal guardianship, the family may still qualify for federal Kin-GAP later as long as the SOC 369 and SOC 369A forms are signed prior to court granting guardianship and all other eligibility requirements are met.
Staff should consult with Revenue Enhancement’s Kin-GAP Manager/section regarding eligibility criteria prior to recommending Kin-GAP to the Court. With very few exceptions, eligible legal guardianship cases should be closed with Kin-GAP in place, in lieu of becoming non-court Non-Related Legal Guardianship cases (NRLG).
Refer to “Legal Permanent Plans for Children”, for a table of the required approvals, including when Kin-GAP is not recommended. Recommendations of: Fit and Willing Relative, Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement (APPLA), Legal Guardianship with a non-relative, or Legal Guardianship with a kin or fictive relative with open court jurisdiction requires ARA and RA approval.
If a prospective legal guardian expresses a desire to keep their case open, staff should inquire regarding their reasons and explore solutions to address their concerns.
In other situations, a prospective legal guardian may need more time before assuming the responsibilities of a legal guardian, thus staff must evaluate if it is appropriate to postpone a legal guardianship recommendation. The court report and the CPA must specifically document reasonable efforts already completed and those planned by the Child and Family Team to address:
The barriers to permanency
Projected timeline for the caregiver to assume guardianship
The family exiting the court and child welfare systems when safe and appropriate to do so.
Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement (APPLA) with either a relative or a non-relative is not considered an appropriate permanent plan.
Children currently on a PPLA plan or residing with a non-related legal guardian must continue receiving services to develop and implement a legal permanent plan.
PPLA with a relative or legal guardianship with a non-relative may be considered only in rare and exceptional circumstances as defined by WIC 366.26 and on a case-by-case basis.
A relative may decide to provide and pursue legal guardianship rather than adoption under the following circumstances:
Diligent efforts have been made to address any barriers to adoption, and/or
Comprehensive information about the differences between adoption and legal guardianship has been provided to the relative caregiver.
In cases where a relative caregiver is willing to accept legal or financial responsibility for a child, the removal of a child from a relative caregiver should not be recommended based on the caregiver’s preference for legal guardianship.
The immigration status of a relative caregiver does not impact their ability to be provided information about guardianship and adoption prior to establishing legal guardianship or pursuing adoption. A court may place a child who is under any dissolution, dependency, or probate guardianship proceedings with a parent, legal guardian, or relative, regardless of the immigration status of the person.
To recommend against termination of parental rights (TPR) or legal guardianship with a relative:
Diligent efforts must be made to assess and address those barriers to seeking the most permanent plan
These efforts must be thoroughly documented in the CPA, Case Plan, and court report.
Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement (APPLA)
The APPLA is a permanent plan for a youth in an out-of-home foster care placement when the options to return home, place with a relative, place for adoption, tribal customary adoption, or legal guardianship have been ruled out. A youth may remain in an APPLA until reaching the age of majority. When the recommendation for a youth is a permanent plan of APPLA, the case plan should identify necessary services that will further the youth's transition to independent living and successful adulthood.
A description of the intensive and ongoing efforts to return the youth to the home of the parent, place the youth for adoption, tribal customary adoption, or establish a legal guardianship;
The steps taken to ensure the youth's care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard; and
The steps taken to ascertain whether the youth has regular opportunities to engage in age or developmentally appropriate activities, including consulting with the youth regarding their desires and opportunities to participate in various activities.
The court may order APPLA for youth age 16 or older and nonminor dependents, if appropriate. For youth placed in foster care under an APPLA permanency plan, the CSW must provide the court with the following information:
Permanency for Children Under 16
For children under 16 years of age, federal law and SB 794 eliminate APPLA as an allowable permanency option. Court must order a permanent plan of return home, adoption, legal guardianship or placement with a fit and willing relative, as appropriate for any child under the age of 16 who remains in foster care placement after reunification services are terminated. CSWs must provide the court with documentation of barriers to achieving the permanent plan and the efforts made to address those barriers. If a child under the age of 16 currently has a permanent plan other than return home, adoption, tribal customary adoption, legal guardianship or placement with a fit and willing relative, DCFS must apply the new requirements described in this section and choose a permanency plan other than APPLA at the next permanency hearing.
Fit and Willing Relative
With a permanent plan of fit and willing relative, DCFS must continue to provide services that will address the barriers identified by the court to a more stable permanent plan, such as adoption or legal guardianship, at subsequent permanency hearings. Placement with "a fit and willing relative" is a permanency option for all youth. A fit and willing relative is an approved placement with a relative who is willing and capable of providing a stable and permanent home environment for the child, but is unable or unwilling to commit to legal permanence though adoption, tribal customary adoption, or legal guardianship at the time of the hearing. This new provision creates additional supports and allowances to DCFS and court for the maintenance of foster youth with relatives who do not wish to adopt or become legal guardianship. The relative's unwillingness to adopt does not justify the removal of the child from the home if the court finds the removal would be detrimental to the child's emotional well-being.
Obtaining Family History Information
Gathering and documenting information about a parent’s psychosocial and medical history should begin as soon as the child is taken into custody.
If it becomes evident that family reunification (FR) is not possible and adoption becomes the case plan goal, the parent(s)’ comprehensive psychosocial and medical history as well as family photographs will provide the prospective adoptive parent(s) and child with important information about the child’s history.
Concurrent Planning for Indian Children
For Indian children, the alternative permanency options, including Tribal Customary Adoption (TCA), must be discussed with the child’s tribe as early as possible in concurrent planning. Consultation and partnership with the Indian child’s tribe should begin as soon as the child is declared ICWA eligible and should be an on-going process.
The social worker must provide the tribe with information regarding TCA at every step throughout the case as part of concurrent planning. This must be documented in the Contact Notebook and court report(s).
For children ten (10) years of age or older: the child’s attitude toward the implementation of FR services and the likelihood of the parent’s discharge within the reunification time limits.
The parent’s situation should they face any of the following circumstances:
Arrest followed by an immigration hold
Detention by the United States Department of Homeland Security
Deportation to their country of origin
Consider whether the court would authorize to continue the case if it is likely to find substantial probability that either:
The child will be returned to the physical custody of their parent and safely maintained in the home within the extended time period, or
Reasonable services have not been provided to the parent/guardian.
The parent’s visitation efforts (frequency, duration, consistency, quality of visits).
If applicable, also assess the parent for the following on an ongoing basis:
History of substance use .Verify with substance abuse program(s), sponsors, and/or substance abuse testing results.
History of mental illness or disability. Verify psychiatric/psychological evaluations, reports, etc.
Prior involvement with DCFS or any other child protection agency, including the outcomes of previous FR efforts
Complete a client search on CWS/CMS to locate open or closed cases.
Request closed DCFS cases from storage.
Contact other CSWs to obtain pertinent information on open cases.
Verify with other agency contacts, written records, reports, etc.
Criminal history
Determine the case for FR and take the appropriate steps, based on the following chart:
Family Reunification Case Prognosis
Next Steps
Good for at least one parent
Continue providing concurrent planning and FR services.
Poor for all parents
Consult with the SCSW regarding any further concurrent planning steps/efforts to be taken.
Although this should be done as soon as a child is in out-of-home care, ensure that the child is receiving the appropriate foster care rate.
If not, make the applicable referrals
Provide each parent with ongoing feedback regarding his/her efforts at meeting the FR service objectives detailed in the Case Plan.
Inform each parent of the child’s status, including any decision to activate alternative permanent placement services.
As applicable, activate the alternative permanent plan as early as possible but no later than thirty (30) days prior to the WIC 366.21(e) hearing.
If the recommendation is to return the child to their parent and the court did not follow the recommendation at the hearing, activate the alternative permanent plan upon receipt of the minute order.
Gathering and Documenting Family Background Information
ERCP/ER CSW Responsibilities
Create the Family Background #1 (FB 1) on CWS/CMS or LA Kids, and enter the information obtained during the contact with the family.
Provide the parent(s) with Family Background #3 (FB 3) along with a self-addressed stamped envelope.
Instruct the parent(s) to return the completed FB 3 in the envelope as soon as possible.
Obtain the completed the FB 3 from the parent(s).
If not completed or if the parent(s) did not previously receive the FB 3, provide the form along with a self-addressed envelope.
Instruct the parent(s) to return the completed the FB 3 in the envelope as soon as possible.
Document who provided the information to complete the FB 1 and the efforts to obtain the FB 3 in the Contact Notebook.
Enter the information obtained in the appropriate section in CWS/CMS.
File the original FB 1 in the oldest child’s Psychological/Medical/Dental Health folder.
Print the FB 1 and place copies in the siblings’ folders.
Forward the FB 1, and if available the FB 3 with the completed FB Coversheet attached, to the DI/case-carrying CSW.
DI CSW Responsibilities
Review the FB 1 and identify missing information.
Prior to contacting the family, create the Family Background #2 (FB 2) on LA Kids or on CWS/CMS. Create the Family Background #3 (FB 3) forms if they have not been returned. Fill out these new FB 3 forms during the interview with the birth parents.
Interview the birth parents or any other family members to complete the FB 2.
Make a diligent effort to obtain as much missing information as possible on the Family Background #1 (FB 1).
Document additional information received on the Family Background Addendum. Place the Addendum on top of the FB for it addresses.
If the FB 3 has not been received, request it from the parent or relative.
If necessary, provide them with a copy of the FB 3 and a self-addressed envelope with instructions to complete and return the form as soon as possible.
Enter the information obtained in CWS/CMS.
File the original FB 2 in the oldest child’s Psychological/Medical/Dental Health folder.
Print the FB 2 and place copies in the siblings’ folders.
Within one (1) day of completion, forward the following to the case-carrying CSW:
FB 1
FB 2
If available, the FB 3 and FB 3 Coversheet
The Family Addendum
Any other documentation normally obtained about the child or the birth parents.
Document all contacts in the Contact Notebook.
Case-Carrying CSW Responsibilities
In cases where the DCFS 4344 series were used, continue to use those forms to document missing information or to correct information previously obtained.
Upon receipt, review FB 1, FB 2, and the FB 3 (if returned) for missing information.
Interview the birth parents and any other family members to obtain as much missing information on the FB 1 as possible and to complete the FB 2.
If the FB 3 has not been received, request if from the parent or relative.
If necessary, provide them with a copy of the FB 3 and a self-addressed envelope with instructions to complete and return the form as soon as possible.
Document any additional obtained information on the FB Addendum.
Enter the information in CWS/CMS.
File the original FB 2 in the oldest child’s Psychological/Medical/Dental Health folder.
Print the FB 2 and place copies in the siblings’ folders.
Document all contacts in the Contact Notebook.
Completing an Initial CPA
Case-Carrying CSW Responsibilities
No later than ninety (90) days prior to the CSW recommending denial or terminating family reunification services, complete the CPA by performing the following:
Review the case records, including family history information and case plan progress. Continue gathering information as necessary.b. Review court minute orders to determine whether a CPA was ordered by the court.
Review court minute orders to determine whether a CPA was ordered by the court.
Inform the parent(s)/caregiver(s) as soon as possible about concurrent planning and the need for an alternative permanent plan. Consider relatives and placement preferences as early as possible.
Consult with the parent/caregiver about who could be considered for permanency.
Ask the caregiver, known relatives, and/or a nonrelative extended family members (NREFMs) whether they would like to be considered as a permanency option for this child.
Do not coerce the caregiver into making a particular permanency decision.
In the case of an Indian child, discuss the alternative permanency options, including Tribal Customary Adoption (TCA), with the child’s tribe.
Discuss with the current caregiver and, if appropriate, known relatives/NREFMs the various permanency options.
In the case of an Indian child, discuss information about TCA.
Identify the alternative permanent plan and the resource family.
The child may be placed with that family as soon as possible, unless the child will imminently be returned to their home.
Create the CPA on CWS/CMS.
Only use the DCFS-designated CPA in CWS/CMS.
Access the CPA through the Case Management Notebook within the Case Plan folder. Click on ‘Create New Document'. Select Los Angeles County in the drop down menu. Click on the CPA.
When completing the CPA prior to recommending the termination of FR, access the CPA in CWS/CMS through the Case Management Notebooks, Case Plan folder, and selecting 'Existing Document'.
Review the fields that are self-populated for accuracy. Update the fields as needed.
Complete all sections that need to be completed by the FM&R/Generic CSW as noted on the CPA’s instructions section.
In the case of an Indian child, provide the tribe representative’s contact information. Document the recommendation, efforts, and contacts made to consult with the child’s tribe regarding permanency options for the child, including the option of TCA.
The plan of TCA cannot be recommended, selected, facilitated, or finalized without consultation with, and involvement of, the child’s tribe.
Consent from the Indian parent(s) or custodian is not required to recommend TCA.
No later than sixty-five (65) days prior to recommending the termination of FR, submit the completed CPA to the SCSW for their review and approval. Complete any corrective actions as needed.
Once the CPA is received with all the necessary approvals, complete the following steps:
On Case Plan Participants page of the Case Plan Notebook:
Select the approved identified alternative permanent plan in the dropdown field titled "Permanency Alternative/Concurrent Planning".
Make the appropriate selection from the box titled "Assessed by Adoptions".
If the plan is TCA, selection "Open Existing Case Plan" under the CP Participant’s tab. Under the Case Plan Goal field, check "Tribal Customary Adoption".
For those TCAs that have been previously identified in CWS/CMS using the former Special Projects Codes (SPC), the data entered with them need not be duplicated with the new functionality.
All new TCAs not already identified in CWS/CMS should be entered using the new CWS/CMS R6.5 codes.
On the Case management Services Page under the Case Plan Notebook, select all the concurrent planning tasks to be completed.
In the Concurrent Planning section of the applicable court report, discuss the alternative permanent plan.
Sign the CPA and obtain the SCSW's signature.
SCSW Responsibilities
Review the CPA generated by the case-carrying CSW on CWS/CMS and any necessary supporting case records to determine the appropriateness of the alternative permanent plan.
If not approved, return to CSW for corrective action.
If approved:
Generate the CPA Coversheet – (SCSW) form from the Child Notebook under New Documents.
Enter the submitted date to the RFSPD CSW.
Check any of the applicable boxes.
Complete Section I and save to the database.
No later than sixty (60) days prior to recommending the termination of FR, email the CPA Coversheet – (SCSW) form to the CPA Unit email in-box (UnitC@dcfs.lacounty.gov) for an assignment to the RFSPD CSW.
ARA Responsibilities
Review the CPA needing ARA approval and any necessary supporting case records to determine the appropriateness of the alternative permanent plan.
If approved, obtain RA approval.
If not approved, return to SCSW for corrective action.
RA Responsibilities
Review the CPA needing RA approval and any necessary supporting case records to determine the appropriateness of the alternative permanent plan.
If approved, return to the SCSW.
If not approved, return to the SCSW for corrective action.
RFSPD CSW Responsibilities
Upon assignment, review the CPA on CWS/CMS and all other case records.
Determine if the activated plan is to be Tribal Customary Adoption (TCA) and document in the CPA that a written statement of its selection of TCA is required from the child's tribe.
Within five (5) days of assignment, consult with the case-carrying CSW and/or appropriate co-assigned DCFS staff and maintain ongoing contact as necessary for the following reasons:
Obtain input
Address identified issues, questions, and problems
Discuss case planning ideas and recommendations
Obtain missing information
Consult with the SCSW and the case-carrying CSW to determine if an in-person contact is required for the completion of the CPA.
Refer to the attachment for the reasonable efforts that DCFS staff must provide.
Follow the chain of command, if there is a disagreement on the permanency planning recommendation.
Contact the prospective permanent caregiver. Provide full disclosure and explain all applicable information, including:
Concurrent Planning
The children’s need for permanence
That reunification is always the first priority unless it is a FTP case
The rationale for working on two plans at the same time
The absolute necessity for a concurrent plan
Kinship Issues
The ongoing search for kinship placement/kinship connections
The importance of continuing kinship connections, including siblings
Permanent Plans
Permanency options of legal guardianship and adoption
Differences in legal rights and responsibilities
The difference between Kin-Gap and the Adoption Assistance Program (AAP), including long-term benefits and consequences of each option
For youth sixteen (16) years old and over, Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement (APPLA) is not a permanent plan
Provide DCFS 5620, Comparison of Legal and Financial Benefits Adoption, Legal Guardianship and Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement
Provide the Pub 511, "Finding a Competent Therapist Tips for Adoptive and Guardianship Families" to prospective legal guardians or adoptive parents or when the recommendation is adoption or legal guardianship.
In addition to the point where a resource family expresses interest in adoption or prior to recommending legal guardianship, CDSS also recommends that this will also be provided to prospective adoptive families prior to signing the adoption placement agreement.
Highlight the following:
A child may display trauma internally or through external behaviors, which is a normal response to their experiences. For example, It is very normal for children and youth who have experienced trauma to act out or conversely, turn in to themselves/shut others out as a response to that trauma.
Children and youth with a history of abuse, neglect, trauma, and other adverse early experiences, have unique needs.
Not all therapists are trained to meet the needs of adoptive and guardianship families.
Honoring a child’s past experience by accessing an appropriate therapist can strengthen family relationships and long-term well-being.
In the CPA, document the provision of the DCFS 5620, Pub 511 and any other materials/documents provided.
If applicable, explain the Matching and Coordination Unit (MCU) matching and placement process for unattached cases.
Funding Issues
Discuss the differences in funding and other resources available for the different forms of alternative permanence.
Ensure that the information regarding the adoption tax credit is provided to the prospective permanent caregiver.
Resource Family Assessment/Adoption Readiness
Explain the forms and verifying documentation that is required, the interview process and timelines for the resource family assessment.
If the caregiver is working with a dually licensed foster family agency (FFA), discuss the option of having the FFA complete the resource family assessment and/or adoption readiness.
Notify the caregiver of their right to choose any licensed adoption agency to compete the resource family assessment.
Inquire if the caretaker and/or prospective adoptive parent(s) has a previous Resource Family Approval, Foster Care License, or ASFA assessment and what agency or CSW completed it.
Discuss with the caretaker and/or prospective adoptive parent(s) the additional documents and requirements that are needed to be approved as an adoptive parent.
Discuss the availability of reimbursement for nonrecurring adoption expenses, Post Adoption Contact Agreements, Post Adoption Services (PAS), family preservations services, and Adoption and Permanency Promotion Services (APSS).
If the identified prospective adoptive parent (PAP) is not the current caretaker, explain the Resource Family Approval assessment process. Document in the CPA and inform the case-carrying CSW that a referral to RFA Intake is needed.
If applicable for cases in which TCA is the tribe’s recommended alternative permanent plan, explain that the completion of a resource family assessment and/or adoption readiness may be made by either the Indian child’s tribe or the tribe’s designee as determined by the tribe.
The tribe’s designee may include a licensed county adoption agency (such as DCFS), CDSS when acting as an adoption agency or a licensed adoption agency.
Legal Process
The legal process associated with each permanent plan
Adoption: home study approval, TPR, filing, adoptive placement, finalization
Legal Guardianship: guardianship assessment, guardianship hearing, letters of guardianship
In the case of Indian child: that even without TPR, the parental rights are modified as outlined in the Tribal Customary Adoption Order (TCAO); that TCA affords adoptive parents the same rights and privileges as other adoptive parents; that where any rights are not specified in the TCAO, the rights and obligations will be with the adoptive parents
Address the prospective permanent caregiver’s questions and/or concerns.
Obtain a statement from the prospective permanent caregiver regarding their interest in providing permanence.
Conduct face-to-face or telephone interviews with the current relative or non-relative caregiver.
Refer to the attachment for the reasonable efforts that DCFS staff must provide.
Follow the chain of command if there is a disagreement on the permanency planning recommendation.
Determine the need for an in-person contact by consulting with the RFSPD SCSW, the case-carrying CSW, and their SCSW. Telephone contact will always be required.
As necessary, conduct face-to-face or telephone interviews with the child to determine their understanding, feelings, and attitude about placement and the alternative permanent plan.
Provide full disclosure. Explain the available permanency options. Obtain a statement from the child regarding permanency.
If the child states that they do not want to be adopted, explore his/her reasons and address any misperceptions.
Ensure that the child is making an informed decision.
If necessary, ask the child to identify other possible placement resources and/or significant persons in their life. Follow up with these leads.
Document recommended services to address the child’s concerns and need for legal permanency in the comment section of the assessment.
Make appropriate referrals for services such as Adoption and Permanency Promotion Services (APSS) to address any identified issues.
In the case of an Indian child, collaborate with the Indian child’s tribe to provide these services.
If at the conclusion of the concurrent planning process, the CPA outcome is different from the initial recommendation, the case-carrying CSW must be informed by the RFSPD CSW.
If no consensus is reached, staff must hold a conference call and follow the chain of command until a resolution is achieved.
Record all contacts in the Contact Notebook. Ensure none of the prospective adoptive parent(s) confidential assessment information is entered into the contact.
Record all points of disclosure provided and complete all applicable sections of the CPA on CWS/CMS, including the Permanency Planning Recommendation Review/Verification, the Activation of the Adoption Plan, if applicable, and Signatures:
Document the TCA as applicable:
Document key stages and/or decisions of the Indian child’s case in the Existing Case Plan Notebook, under the Identification (ID) tab, in the Case Plan Update Appropriateness Description field.
In the Update Narrative Information field, as applicable, enter the date the tribe agrees that TCA is an appropriate permanency option for the child and/or the date the tribe rejects the TCA option and the reason.
If a Tribal Designee has been chosen by the tribe to conduct the TCA home study, check “Tribal Designee Consulted” and identify the designee in the “Rationale” field under the ID tab of the Existing Placement Notebook.
A written assessment of the child’s suitability for adoption, including the child’s relationship to/with the Indian child’s tribe
A review of the amount and nature of any contact between the Indian child and either their birth parents or other members of their extended family since the time of placement in out-of-home care
An assessment of the religion and/or cultural background
A statement of the religious or cultural background preference indicated by the tribe(s) and the Indian child, unless the child’s age, physical or emotional condition, or other conditions preclude their meaningful response
Upon completion, but no later than twenty-five (25) days of assignment of the CPA, notify the RFSPD SCSW that the CPA is ready for their review and approval. Complete any corrective action as needed.
Upon receipt of the approved CPA, sign and forward it to the RFSPD Unit Clerk/designated support staff.
RFSPD SCSW Responsibilities
Within five (5) days of notification from the RFSPD CSW that the CPA is ready for review, review the CPA and any necessary supporting case records.
Ensure that all required actions and documentation are completed.
Determine the appropriateness of the recommendations and alternative permanent plan.
If the CPA is not approved, notify the RFSPD CSW of the needed corrective action.
If the CPA is approved:
Update the existing CPA Coversheet – (SCSW) form as needed. Save to database.
Print a copy of the CPA and sign it.
Based on the identified plan, take the appropriate steps:
Identified Plan
Next Steps
Adoption
Assign the case to an RFSPD CSW
Adoption or legal guardianship
Forward the CPA to the RFSPD CSW for their signature and distribution.
Ensure that the child is receiving the appropriate foster.
If not, make the applicable referrals.
Planned Permanent Living Arrangement (PPLA)
Forward the CPA to the RFSPD ARA for their review, approval, and initials.
Reasons must be well documented and case plans must include continuing efforts to achieve permanency and stability
This child is unattached
Email the CPA Coversheet – (SCSW) form to the designated MCU staff in-box.
RFSPD ARA Responsibilities
Review, approve, and initial all CPAs requiring ARA approval.
Review and approve any necessary supporting case records to determine the appropriateness of the recommendation(s) and the alternative plan.
If the CPA is not approved, notify the RFSPD SCSW of the needed corrective action.
Completing Concurrent and/or Early Adoptive Planning
Obtain, follow-up, and/or review the child’s certificate of live birth and/or any other applicable vital records for the identified parent(s), including death certificates.
If a parent chooses to relinquish their rights, notify the court.
No later than ninety (90) days prior to the CSW recommending denial or termination of family reunification services and no later than five (5) days after the detention hearing for cases meeting Fast to Track to Permanency (FTP) criteria, complete the Concurrent Planning Assessment (CPA).
For attached cases, maintain contact with the RFSPD CSW and, if applicable, the outside adoption social worker regarding the status of the resource family assessment and/or the adoption readiness, and any changes in the child’s Case Plan (e.g. the court orders a plan other than adoption).
Obtain and provide information or recruitment-related assistance, as requested by the MCU and/or RFSPD CSW.
RFSPD CSW Responsibilities
When assigned:
Review the completed the CPA.
If the activated plan is Tribal Customary Adoption (TCA), immediately request from the child's tribe a required statement of its selection of TCA.
The statement must include whether the tribe will complete the applicant assessment or procure a tribal designee.
If the tribe designates an agency to complete the resource family assessment, it must specify the agency. The tribe is responsible for providing the written statement to that agency, asking it to conduct the resource family assessment.
Do not initiate the resource family assessment until the written designation is received.
Submit the DCFS 6087, Resource Family Assessment (RFA) Intake Request form to the RFA Request Intake Inbox.
For unattached cases, maintain and collaborate with the MCU Recruiter in the recruitment process and matching process.
Obtain and provide any other information, documentation, paperwork, or recruitment-related assistance, as requested by the MCU.
Obtain and provide any information and/or documentation requested by the Family Assessment Worker.
Completing a CPA Update or Reassessment
Case-Carrying/RFSPD CSW Responsibilities
Complete the reassessment no later than sixty (60) days prior to the next status review hearing or immediately when there is a change of plan or of permanency caregiver.
Identify the most appropriate alternative plan and follow procedure for completing the CPA.
Complete CPA updates and reassessments according to the following guidelines:
Status of Plan
Action to be Taken
Adoption Plan Not Activated
Complete the CPA Update on CWS/CMS prior to the Status Review (WIC 366.21(f)) and the Permanency Review (WIC 366.22) hearings.
Thereafter, complete the CPA annually.
Not required for youth 18 years old and over unless court-ordered.
Adoption Plan Activated – Unattached Child
Complete the CPA Update on CWS/CMS prior to the Status Review (WIC 366.21(f)) and the Permanency Review (WIC 366.22) hearings.
Adoption Plan Activated – Attached Child
No update is required
Change in Case Plan
Complete the CPA Update on CWS/CMS.
If an RFSPDCSW is assigned to the case, they must complete the entire CPA Update.
The CPA Update form can be accessed by selecting 'Los Angeles County' from the drop down menu in the Case Management Notebook of the Case Plan Folder.
Ensure that the appropriate fields are self-populated in the CPA Update. Update fields as needed.
Notify and obtain approval from the SCSW of the CPA Update's completion and activate the alternative plan, if applicable, by following procedure for completing the CPA.
If the Update produces a change of permanency plan, reach consensus among regional and RFSPD staff and management, if applicable, before the case plan is changed. All workers, including the MCU if applicable, should be contacted during the reevaluation.
Should consensus not be reached, follow the chain of command until resolution is achieved.
RFSPD CSW Responsibilities
Review the CPA Update on CWS/CMS, if initiated and submitted by the case-carrying CSW
Proceed with the reassessment and approval process by following procedure for completing the CPA.
SCSW and/or RFSPD SCSW Responsibilities
Determine the appropriateness of the alternative permanent plan and activate the permanency plan both. To do so, both review the completed CPA Update and all necessary supporting records and follow procedure for completing the CPA.
ARA and RA Responsibilities
Review the CPA needing ARA/RA approvals and any necessary supporting case records to determine the appropriateness of the alternative permanent plan and follow applicable procedures for completing the CPA.
RFSPD ARA Responsibilities
Review, approve, and initial a CPA Update with a recommendation of Planned Permanent Living Arrangement (PPLA) and any necessary supporting case records.
Determine the appropriateness of the recommendation(s) and alternative plan of APPLA.
If the CPA Update is not approved, notify the RFSPD SCSW of the needed corrective action.
DCFS 5620, Comparison of Legal and Financial Benefits Adoption, Legal Guardianship and Planned Permanent Living Arrangement
DCFS 5620-SP, Comparasion de Beneficios Legales y Financieros: Adopcion, Tutela Legal, Pariente Apto y Dispuesto y Otros Arreglos Planificados de Vivienda Permanente
DCFS 6087, Resource Family Assessment (RFA) Intake Request
All County Letter (ACL) 14-28 - Expansion of the Definition for the Federal Kinship Assistance Payment (Kin-GAP) Program
ACL 16-3-28 - Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement (APPLA)
ACL 18-100 - Implementation of SB 1006 including instruction to provide written information to prospective legal guardians and adoptive parents.
Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) Section 366.21(f) – States, in part, that the permanency hearing must be held no later than 12 months after the date the child entered foster care, as that date is determined and that the court may order that a nonminor dependent to remain in a planned, permanent living arrangement.
WIC Section 336.26 – Details, in part, the exceptional circumstances under which PPLA with a relative or legal guardianship with a non-relative may be considered
WIC Sections 371 & 16119(a) - States requirements for potential adoptive parents to receive written information regarding the importance of working with mental health providers that have specialized adoption or permanency clinical training and experience if the family needs clinical support. The materials also include information for families to use to identify mental health providers with specialized adoption or permanency training and experience.
A non-specific file number generated by the Emergency Response Command Post (ERCP) identifying a placement case that is transferred from ERCP directly to a regional Family Maintenance and Reunification (FM&R) or generic (G) file.
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health's (DMH) 24 hour, 7 (seven) day a week hotline: Emergency psychiatric services are coordinated through ACCESS. ACCESS offers information regarding all types of mental health services available in Los Angeles County. CSWs may request a joint response with FRO by contacting ACCESS at (800) 854-7771.
The term includes physical injury or death inflicted upon a child by another person by other than accidental means, sexual abuse as defined in Section 11165.1, neglect as defined in Section 11165.2, unlawful corporal punishment or injury as defined in Section 11165.4, or the willful harming or injuring of a child or the endangering of the person or health of a child, as defined in Section 11165.3, where the person responsible for the child's welfare is a licensee, administrator, or employee of any facility licensed to care for children, or an administrator or employee of a public or private school or other institution or agency. 'Abuse or neglect in out-of-home care' does not include an injury caused by reasonable and necessary force used by a peace officer acting within the course and scope of his or her employment as a peace officer.
The team is made up of former RUM (Resource Utilization Management) staff who have experience in finding placement for high risk/needs children. APT Specialist CSWs can assist Regional CSWs expedite the process in finding placement/replacement after hours and/or when all other efforts have been unsuccessful.
Active investigation means the activities of an agency in response to a report of known or suspected child abuse. For purposes of reporting information to the Child Abuse Central Index, the activities shall include, at a minimum: assessing the nature and seriousness of the known or suspected abuse; conducting interviews of the victim(s) and any known suspect(s) and witness(es) when appropriate and/or available; gathering and preserving evidence; determining whether the incident is substantiated, inconclusive, or unfounded; and preparing a report that will be retained in the files of the investigating agency.
A mandatory statewide program that provides financial support to families in order to facilitate the adoption of children who would otherwise be in long-term foster care. The intent of this program is to remove limited financial resources as a barrier to adoption.
State licensed adoption practitioners who are authorized to help the adopting family in obtaining consents from birth parents in non-relative independent adoption.
An order/decision which is contrary to a DCFS recommendation and which DCFS believes, if carried out, will jeopardize the safety of a child; and an order/decision which adversely affects the administrative and/or operational functioning of DCFS. This includes, but is not limited to, orders, which are contrary to DCFS policy and/or state or federal regulations; and/or, penalizes DCFS for the actions or inaction of a CSW and/or DCFS.
CSW is requesting a ruling on the warrant on a weekend, holiday, or during non-court hours. (Same as expedited but the matter cannot wait until the next court day for a ruling.)
The adoption of a child in which DCFS is a party to or joins in the petition for adoption. DCFS has custody of the child and approved the applicant assessment (adoption home study).
Foster care financial assistance paid on behalf of children in out-of-home placement who meet the eligibility requirements specified in applicable state and federal regulations and laws. The program is administered by DCFS.
An identified or unidentified man who: could be or claims to be the father of the child; or is claimed by the birth mother to be the child’s father; or is identified on the child’s birth certificate prior to January 1, 1997 and does not meet the definition of a presumed father.
Benefits equal to the rate that a Regional Center vendorized home receives for a child that requires the same level of care. These rates are established by the California Department of Development Services and only available for the foster care and Adoption Assistance Benefits (AAP) set prior to the establishment of the dual agency rate.
A hearing in which the court has ordered all affiliated parties to appear to address a matter before the court.
Appellate review refers to the power of a higher court to examine the decision or order of a lower court for errors. Appellate procedure consists of the rules and practices by which appellate courts review trial court judgments. Appellate review performs several functions, including: the correction of errors committed by the trial court, development of the law and precedent to be followed and anticipated in future disputes, and the pursuit of justice.
This is the term used for an agency adoption to determine AAP eligibility.
An assessment usually conducted by a child welfare of adoption agency of the suitability of a prospective adopting family prior to an adoptive placement.
A motion for rehearing or reconsideration seeking to alter or amend a judgment or order.
A family participating in DPSS CalWORKs
When a report has been made about a child alleging abuse and/or neglect and the child's sibling(s) are also at risk of abuse and/or neglect.
A foster parent, relative or nonrelative extended family member (NREFM) who has applied to adopt the child residing in his or her care. S/he is considered to be "attached" to the child because of an existing relationship.
Disease-carrying microorganisms that may be present in human blood. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Depending on the disease, they may be transmitted by direct skin contact to blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. Feces, urine, vomit, sputum, and nasal secretions may be infectious only if they also contain blood.
A redeemable certificate used as a substitute for currency. Transit companies other than the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) issue bus passes.
A permit or authorization to ride at will, without charge. Passes are valid for the current month. Transit companies other than the MTA issue bus passes.
A piece of metal used as a substitute for currency.
California's food stamp program
California Statewide Automated Welfare System. The California Statewide Automated Welfare System (CalSAWS) Project and Consortium is the automated welfare business process in California which will serve all 58 California counties by 2023. The implementation of CalSAWS will merge California’s most recent three (3) county-level consortia welfare systems and will support six (6) core programs: California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs), Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) known as CalFresh in California, Medi-Cal, Foster Care, Refugee Assistance, and County Medical Services. It encompasses the following functions: eligibility determination, benefit computation, benefit delivery, case management and information management. CalSAWS is replacing the LEADER Replacement System (LRS), which replaced LEADER (Los Angeles Eligibility, Automated Determination, Evaluation, and Reporting) and sixteen (16) other legacy systems in 2016.
A system to determine if the subject of an inquiry by DCFS, law enforcement, the District Attorney or any other appropriate inquiring agency possesses a criminal record. DCFS may only request a CLETS clearance when related to child protective services issues.
California Regional Centers are nonprofit private corporations that contract with the State Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to provide or coordinate services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities.
CalWORKs is a welfare program that gives cash aid and services to eligible needy California families. The program serves all 58 counties in the state and is operated locally by county welfare departments. If a family has little or no cash and needs housing, food, utilities, clothing or medical care, they may be eligible to receive immediate short-term help. Families that apply and qualify for ongoing assistance receive money each month to help pay for housing, food and other necessary expenses.
The child's parent has been incarcerated, hospitalized or institutionalized and cannot arrange for the care of the child; parent's whereabouts are unknown or the custodian with whom the child has been left is unable or unwilling to provide care and support for the child.
Parent or guardian's mental illness, developmental disability or substance abuse. The child's parent or guardian is unable to provide adequate care for the child due to the.
The non-accidental commission of injuries against a person. In the case of a child, the term refers specifically to the non-accidental commission of injuries against the child by or allowed by a parent(s)/guardian(s) or other person(s). The term also includes emotional, physical, severe physical, and sexual abuse as defined in CDSS MPP Section 31-002(c)(9)(D).
The CACI is a system that allows Children's Social Workers to access in written form to any child abuse records of individuals through the Department of Justice (DOJ) listing names and other identifying information compiled from child abuse reports submitted to DOJ by mandated child abuse reporting agencies which maintain information regarding allegations of abuse and/or neglect. This is primarily utilized to evaluate relative and nonrelative extended family members as prospective caregivers.
California’s version of the federal health care program called Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT). It provides comprehensive medical, mental health and dental diagnostic and treatment services for all Medi-Cal eligible persons aged newborn to 21 years who request them. States are required to inform the families of eligible children about CHDP; assist with referral and transportation to providers; and, follow-up to ensure that necessary diagnostic and treatment services are provided.
Includes the intentional touching of the genitals or intimate parts or the clothing covering them, of a child, or of the perpetrator by a child, for purposes of sexual arousal or gratification. This does not include acts which are reasonably construed to be normal caretaker responsibilities, demonstrations of affection for the child, or acts performed for a valid medical purpose.
A general term for a device that can be installed in a vehicle and is designed to restrain, seat, or position children who weigh 50 pounds or less.
A group of individuals, as identified by the family, and convened by DCFS, who are engaged through a variety of team-based processes to identify the strengths and needs of the child or youth and his or her family, and to help achieve positive outcomes for safety, permanency, and well-being.
CFT Meetings are structured, guided discussions with the family, their natural supports and other team members. The meetings are designed to specifically address the family's strengths, worries that the family, agency or team members have regarding the child's safety, permanence and well-being. The family and team members develop a plan that builds on strengths, meets needs and considers the long-term views.
The term "child’s attorney" refers to the Children’s Law Center of Los Angeles (CLC) attorneys as well as the Los Angeles Dependency Lawyers (LADL) attorney appointed to represent the child in dependency proceedings. In addition, the term also refers to a paralegal, social worker or any other person working for that attorney. This also includes a youth’s delinquency attorney.
A non-profit corporation whose attorneys represent children in dependency court matters.
Support staff responsible for providing required notification to the child’s attorney, as detailed in a blanket minute order issued by the Presiding Judge of the Dependency court.
Collateral contacts are individuals or agencies with information that can assist the CSW in understanding the nature and extent of the alleged child abuse/neglect and in assessing the risk to and safety of the children. Collateral Contacts include professionals working with the child or parent and have regular contact with the family. Examples include: teachers, parole officers, physicians, DPSS, DMH, therapists, hospitals, and probation.
Sexual activity involving a minor under the age of eighteen (18) in exchange for something of value (i.e., food, shelter, money). [See PEN sections 11165.1(d)(2) and PEN 236.1(c)]. Exploitation includes instances when a minor exchanges sexual acts with a “John/date” even when there is no known trafficker/pimp; Examples of CSEC: Internet-based exploitation, pornography, stripping, erotic/nude massage, escort services, private parties, interfamilial pimping, child being exploited on the streets. CSE is a form of child abuse that mandated reporters must call in to the Child Protection Hotline for each new incident/episode. This includes reporting new AND repeated incidents of CSE on open cases.
The division within the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) responsible for licensing foster care facilities, i.e., foster family homes, foster family agencies, group homes and small family homes. Additional responsibilities include investigating any reported incident of child abuse, neglect or exploitation in such facilities and/or violations of licensing standards.
Offers counseling, nutrition classes, drug education and counseling, parenting classes, pre-natal care, continuing education, pre-employment training, family planning, group outings, and aerobic and weight training classes
Questions that may confuse a young child because they reference more than one response option. For example, 'Is it right or wrong to lie?'; 'Is your shirt green or yellow?'; 'Would your mom give you candy or punish you if you told a lie?'
Lowered resistance to infection.
Concurrent Planning aims to support timely permanence for children. Safe reunification is DCFS' first priority, but in the event that this is not possible, Concurrent Planning ensures that the identification of an alternative placement plan for children who cannot safely return home is in place from the beginning. Working with a labor/management group, the department implemented changes to Concurrent Planning which support the safety and permanence for children and families from the first day they enter out-of-home care. These system changes include focusing on identifying relatives and siblings and developing 'resource families' who are committed to working toward reunification and providing legal permanence if safe reunification is not successful. Concurrent Planning also engages families and draws on their strengths and uses ongoing assessments and case planning.
An assessment document as prescribed in Welfare and Institutions Code Sections 366.21(I), 366.22(b) and 361.5(g). The CPA is initiated by the case carrying Children's Social Worker and completed by the APRD CSW when adoption home study for attached children or matching/recruitment activities for unattached children are initiated.
Adoption petition was filed by the court and stamped with the filing and the action number.
Placement of a child six years and younger in a group home prior to the Disposition Hearing due to a special need for an in-depth evaluation that can only be completed in a "congregate care" facility. The placement cannot be more than 60 days unless and extension of the placement is included in the case plan and approved by the ARA. The child’s total time spent in the placement shall not exceed more than 120 calendar days.
When a party to a lawsuit needs to postpone a matter that has been calendared for a hearing or trial, the proper procedure is to apply to the court for a continuance (postponement to a later date).
CPM is a shared model of practice developed to better integrate services and supports for children, youth and families. The model emphasizes child-centered, family-based practice to identify strengths/needs, collaborative case planning and decision making that considers the long-term view for the family, and development of a support network (team) that will continue to be available to the family even after termination of formal services. The five key practice domains include Engaging, Teaming, Assessing, Planning & Intervening and Tracking.
An officer of the court who advocates the individual needs and best interests of a child, and provides the court with written recommendations. Persons serving as CASAs are generally community volunteers who participate in a training program, after which they are appointed as an officer of the court to advocate on behalf of a child(ren). CASAs are also referred to as Child Advocates or Guardians Ad Litem (GAL).
Refers to the parent with whom the child(ren) reside(s) (i.e., the parent with physical custody or primary physical custody).
Licensed clinician who provides assistance to CSW in identifying and assessing the needs of children with special needs by ensuring that the caregiver's home meets the child's needs and that all children having special needs have those needs met in accordance with the provisions of the Katie A. settlement agreement.
A deficiency is considered any failure to comply with any provision of the Community Care Facilities Act and/or regulations adopted by DCFS or the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Community Care Licensing Division.
Developmental delay refers to infants and toddlers having a significant difference between the expected level of development for their age and their current level of functioning. (DCFS Glossary)
A disability that originates before an individual attains age 18 years, continues or can be expected to continue, indefinitely, and constitutes a substantial disability for that individual. The term includes mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism. It also includes disabling conditions found to be either closely related to mental retardation or to require treatment similar to that required for individuals with mental retardation, but shall not include other handicapping conditions that are solely physical in nature.
Services provided by the Regional Centers, which include diagnostic evaluation, coordination or resources such as education, health, welfare, rehabilitation and recreation for persons with developmental disabilities. Additional services include program planning, admission to and discharge from state hospitals, court-ordered evaluations and consultation to other agencies.
Involves a child who came to the United States for the purpose of adoption through the intercountry adoption process but entered foster care prior to finalization of the adoption regardless of the reason for the foster care placement. The disruption occurs after a child enters the United States under guardianship of the prospective adoptive parents or an adoption agency with a visa for the purposes of completing the adoption process domestically. The disruption must be reported even if the child's plan is reunification with the prospective adoptive parents and the stay in foster care is brief.
Family Code Section 297 defines domestic partners as two adults who have chosen to share one another’s lives in an intimate and committed relationship of mutual caring.
Welfare and Institutions Code Section 18291 (a) states that 'Domestic violence' means abuse committed against an adult or minor who is a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, or person with whom the suspect has had a child or is having or has had a dating or engagement relationship. Penal Code Section 13700 (b) states that "Domestic violence" means abuse committed against an adult or a minor who is a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, or person with whom the suspect has had a child or is having or has had a dating or engagement relationship. For purposes of this subdivision, "cohabitant" means two unrelated adult persons living together for a substantial period of time, resulting in some permanency of relationship. Factors that may determine whether persons are cohabiting include, but are not limited to, (1) sexual relations between the parties while sharing the same living quarters, (2) sharing of income or expenses, (3) joint use or ownership of property, (4) whether the parties hold themselves out as husband and wife, (5) the continuity of the relationship, and (6) the length of the relationship.
A child who is receiving AFDC- FC, Kin-GAP or AAP benefits and is concurrently a consumer of Regional Center services.
A web-based system used by the DHS Medical Hubs that tracks the health status of children in the child welfare system and facilitates provision of quality medical care. As part of a joint effort between DHS and DCFS, the E-mHub System accepts the electronic transmission of the DCFS Medical Hub Referral Form and returns appointment status alerts and completed examination forms, to DCFS via an e-mail notification. DCFS and DPH PHNs and PHN Supervisors have access rights to EmHub screens pertaining to the health care of children served at the Hubs. Completed examination forms may be accessed through the link in the email notification by using the SITE User ID (employee number) and Password (current password used by employee).
The EX Pass TAP Card/Sticker is a monthly pass good for MTA and local travel on twenty-four (24) different public transit carriers throughout the Greater Los Angeles region. No transfers are necessary between the EZ Pass TAP Card transit carriers.
Are characterized by severe disturbances in eating behavior. Eating disorders are divided into three categories: Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating.
Often seen in families where children are forced or allowed to work under certain illegal conditions outside and inside the home. This form of exploitation prohibits children from attending school and may place them in work environments that are a threat to their general health, safety and security. Although poverty may be a prime motivation for this type of exploitation, other situations may exist.
A stipend available to supplement (not replace) ILP. To qualify for this stipend, a youth must be eligible for ILP, be 18 years of age or older, and whose financial need has been verified by YDS. Current and former foster youth, as well as, Nonminor Dependents may qualify. The stipend may provide for, but not be limited to the following independent living needs: bus passes/transportation, housing rental and utility deposits and fees, education and work-related equipment and supplies, training-related equipment and supplies, auto insurance and driver’s education.
Emancipation allows a youth to be freed from the custody and control of their parents and to have many of the rights and responsibilities of an adult. There are three ways a minor may become emancipated: Get married with parental consent and permission from the court; Join the military; Go to court and have the judge declare you emancipated.
An ex-prate temporary restraining order issued by the Superior Court following a determination by law enforcement that a child is in immediate danger of abuse by a member of a child’s family or household. An EPO may exclude any parent, guardian or member of a child’s household from the dwelling of the person having the care, custody, and control of the child. EPO allow children to remain in their home while allegations of child abuse by the restrained parties are investigated and allow the non-offending parent time to seek assistance from Family Law Court. EPO expire at the close of the second day of judicial business following the day of issuance. EPO may only be extended by application to the appropriate court. See "Ex-Prate Order," "Judicial Business Hours" and "Restraining Order."
The term 'assessment' goes beyond the concept to evaluate a child's safety and risk, and to determine whether and what services are needed to ameliorate or prevent child abuse and neglect. In order to complete a thorough family assessment, any and all safety threats (as listed on the SDM Safety Assessment) that may compromise a child's safety and well-being must be thoroughly assessed, even if those safety threats were not identified on the referral as an allegation.
The term 'investigation' encompasses the efforts of DCFS to determine if abuse or neglect has occurred, if allegations can be substantiated.
"Emotional abuse" refers to nonphysical mistreatment, the results of which may be characterized by disturbed behavior on the part of the child such as severe withdrawal, regression, bizarre behavior, hyperactivity, or dangerous acting-out behavior.
CSW has good cause to request a ruling the same day the request is submitted, and intends to serve the warrant or at least make an attempt the same day it is granted.
Forcing or coercing a child into performing functions which are beyond his/her capabilities or capacities, or into illegal or degrading acts. The term also includes sexual exploitation, economic exploitation, exploitation involving illegal activities and exploitation in the home.
When assessing families that are involved in the gang culture investigate to see if children are encouraged from a young age to value gang membership (parents may be active or retired gang members), or if someone is teaching children gang signs, dress codes and affiliations and advocating membership, if adults are supporting violent behavior and criminal activities of the children.
Exploitation exists within the family household as well. A child may be selected to perform all or the majority of such parental tasks as cleaning, cooking and caring for younger siblings, including bathing, dressing, feeding and babysitting. Frequently, the child who is singled out in this manner is substituting for a parent who is absent or unable to fulfill parental responsibilities due to the parents' substance abuse and/or physical/mental disabilities.
The Extended Foster Care program allows a foster youth to remain in foster care and continue to receive foster care payment benefits (AFDC-FC payments) and services beyond age 18, as long as the foster youth is meeting participation requirements, living in an approved or licensed facility, and meeting other eligibility requirements.
A method of bringing family members together to come up with a recommendation to the court for a safe and permanent plan for a child. If differs from the traditional child welfare case conferencing in that although the caseworker participates in an information-sharing capacity, the family and not the child welfare worker is "in charge" of the meeting and responsible to create the recommended plan. Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
In January 1991 as a result of Senate Bill AB546, we established comprehensive community-based networks and services to protect children while they remain within their homes. The primary goal of the Family Preservation approach is the safety of children in their own homes and safe return of children being reunified after periods of placement into foster care. DCFS currently works with 38 Family Preservation agencies and covers most of Los Angeles County. On average, 5,000 families are served annually. The maximum length of time services can be provided is 12 months. The average stay in Family Preservation is 9 months.
Activities designed to provide time-limited foster care services to prevent or remedy neglect, abuse, or exploitation. The child remains in temporary foster care while services are provided to reunite the family.
An on-line Structured Decision Making (SDM) tool used for identifying family strengths and needs and to assist with case planning.
The term 'first degree relative' refers to grandparents, uncles, aunts, and adult siblings.
The Foster Care Search Engine (FCSE) is a web-based system providing an interactive search mechanism using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. The system is a tool used to identify vacant placement homes within Los Angeles County based on the children needs and well-being. Mapping capability allows for staff to view location of vacancies in proximity to schools, community boundaries and placement of siblings. The system interfaces with CSW/CMS Datamart database to maintain data integrity and provides a web-based data entry screen for Foster Family Agencies to provide specific data not available on CWS/CMS. The system is used by Children’s Social Workers (CSW) and by Technical Assistants (TA) who assists the workers in foster care placements.
A non-profit organization licensed by the State of California to recruit, certify, train, and provide professional support to foster parents.
Greater Avenues for Independence - CalWORKs services may include GAIN services (Welfare-to-Work Program). GAIN is mandatory for parents aided on CalWORKs, unless there is an exemption (e.g., parent has a child under a year old, temporary incapacity, participant is over age 65).
A portion of the cash aid being received by a CalWORKs participant is reduced when (s)he is not adhering to GAIN Program requirements.
Penal Code Section 11165.2(b) defines general neglect as the negligent failure of a person having the care or custody of a child to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or supervision where no physical injury to the child has occurred.
The unavailability of a preferred placement, after a diligent search has been conducted; or the desires of the Indian parent, child, or tribe; or the child’s special needs for a placement, which offers either proximity to a parent or a therapeutic program when no available preferred placement can meet these needs.
For the purpose of the adoption home study, procedures initiated on behalf of the applicant, at the applicant's request, to appeal the Department's decision when the adoption home study has been denied by DCFS. The Grievance Review Process pamphlet outlines the specific action taken by the Department when the applicant requests a grievance review hearing. In addition, grievance procedures are in place for foster parents who want to challenge the Department's decision in regards to their care and supervision of a child(ren). Foster parents who want to challenge decisions regarding their license must follow grievance procedures from the State Department of Social Services.
Refers to behaviors or factors that may increase the risk of contracting HIV/AIDS such as: sexual activities involving exposure to the blood or semen of an infected person, sharing needles used for intravenous (IV) injections, tattooing and body-piercing with infected persons, maternal transmission (i.e., from an infected mother to her fetus during pregnancy, birth or breast feeding) when the infant’s parent has a history of behavior that places the parent at an increased risk of exposure to HIV, blood or blood products, transfusions or organ transplants during the period from 1978 to June of 1985, and child is a victim of sexual abuse that places them at risk of exposure to HIV.
Harassment is unlawful violence, a credible threat of violence, or a knowing and willful course of conduct directed at a specific person that seriously alarms, annoys, or harasses the person, and that serves no legitimate purpose. The course of conduct must be such as would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress, and must actually cause substantial emotional distress to the petitioner. (California Code of Civil Procedure Section 527.6 (a)(3))
An individual designated to make medical decisions on behalf of an adult if (s)he is incapable of making her/his own health care decisions. If no health care agent is appointed, when an adult has a medical emergency in which (s)he is not capable of communicating with hospital staff, the parent(s) or other relative would be asked to make decisions about medical treatment for the individual.
Passed in 2003, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is designed to give patients more control over their health information, set boundaries on the use and disclosure of health information, institute safeguards to protect privacy of health information, create accountability, civil and criminal penalties, and establish a balance between individual privacy and the public good. In cases where the law of California is more restrictive than HIPAA, the State law must be followed. Conversely, if HIPAA is more restrictive than State law, then HIPAA must be followed unless there is a legal exception.
A document that is generated on CWS/CMS that contains a summary of a child's health and education information. The caregiver keeps a current copy of the Passport, along with the health and education forms in a binder provided by DCFS. This binder shall follow the child to all placements. The Passport shall accompany the child to all medical, dental and educational appointments. The Passport binder in its entirety is given to the child upon emancipation.
A plan developed by a medical provider that assists the child/youth in developing life long practices that encourages healthy behaviors, healthy food choices and regular engagement in cardio-vascular activities.
In the context of CHDP, a child with one or more of the following conditions: A past significant medical problem or chronic illness; possible contagious disease; medication; and/or social problems (e.g., language barrier) which could conceal an unmet medical need.
The county that provides courtesy supervision for a child residing with a relative or in foster care placement whose legal jurisdiction is in another California County.
An approach to successfully connect individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability to housing services without preconditions and barriers to entry such as service participation requirements.
The DCFS ICPC Unit will contact the potential host state, per existing procedures and obtain information regarding provision of services to a NMD placed in a SILP.
Shortcomings that if not corrected would have direct and immediate risk to health, safety, or personal rights of the child.
There is reasonable cause to believe that the child will experience serious bodily injury in the time it would take for the CSW to return to the office, prepare, obtain from a judge, and serve the removal order.
A report determined by the investigator conducting the investigation not to be unfounded, but the findings are inconclusive and there is insufficient evidence to determine whether child abuse or neglect, as defined in Section 11165.6, has occurred.
The adoption of a child in which neither CDSS nor an agency licensed by CDSS, such as DCFS, is a party to, or joins in, the petition for adoption.
The Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act requires that a person who receives services from a regional center have an Individual Program Plan (IPP). Person-centered individual program planning assists persons with developmental disabilities and their families to build their capacities and capabilities. The planning team decides what needs to be done, by whom, when, and how, if the individual is to begin (or continue) working toward the preferred future. The document known as the Individual Program Plan (IPP) is a record of the decisions made by the planning team.
Those individuals who develop a health care plan for a child with special health care needs in a specialized foster care home or group home which shall include the child's primary care physician or other health care professional designated by the physician, any involved medical team, and the CSW and any health care professional designated to monitor the child's individualized health care plan, including, if the child is in a certified home, the registered nurse employed by or under contract with the certifying agency to supervise and monitor the child. The child's individualized health care plan team may also include, but shall not be limited to, a public health nurse, representatives from the California Children's Services Program or the Child Health and Disability Prevention Program, regional centers, the county mental health department, and where reunification is the goal, the parent or parents, if available. In addition, if the child is in a specialized foster care home, the individualized health care plan team may include the prospective specialized foster parents, who shall not participate in any team decision.
A person is considered institutionalized when (s)he has been residing in a hospital, jail, prison, homeless shelter, residential school, rehabilitation center, halfway house, out-of-home care facility, etc., for more than 90 calendar days. This does not include battered women's shelters.
ISWs are the key component when detention is being considered or when a detention has occurred. ISWs provide immediate linkage to services for families where a court detention was necessary. ISWs participate in child safety conferences shortly after detention to review for possible return of children and or to connect children and families to services immediately following detention.
The Intensive Treatment Foster Care Program (ITFC) was developed to meet the treatment needs of emotionally disturbed children who need out-of-home placement. An Intensive Treatment Foster Care agency refers to an organization licensed by the California Department of Social Services for children who have a history of emotional/behavioral disturbance, have experienced multiple placement histories; are at risk of hospitalization, and/or qualify for Rate Classification Level (RCL) 12 or higher group home placement.
One agency has custody of the child and another agency approved the applicant assessment.
A hearing that is not mandated by the Welfare and Institutions Code, but is set by the court to address specific information and/or receive a progress report on the case at hand.
The computer system tracking all dependency court schedules and proceedings. Additionally, this software system allows DCFS to print minute orders.
The intent of the Kin-GAP program is to establish a program of financial assistance for relative caregivers who have legal guardianship of a child while Dependency Court jurisdiction and the DCFS case are terminated. The rate for the Kin-GAP program will be applied uniformly statewide.
The Kinship Support Division promotes, increases, and sustains legal permanency for children, adolescents and young adults in relative and legal guardianship placement through providing education, supportive services, advocacy, mentoring, and aftercare that is accessible and meets the needs of the child, family, and community.
Physical custody of a minor 72 hours old or younger accepted by a person from a parent of the minor, who the person believes in good faith is the parent of the minor, with the specific intent and promise of effecting the safe surrender of the child.
Questions that suggest a desired answer; often these are questions that can be answered with a simple 'yes' or 'no.' For example: "The sky is blue, isn't it?"
Legal relief (legal remedy): the means to achieve justice in any matter in which legal rights are involved. Remedies may be ordered by the court, granted by judgment after trial or hearing, by agreement (settlement) between the person claiming harm and the person he/she believes has caused it, and by the automatic operation of law. Some remedies require that certain acts be performed or prohibited (originally called "equity"), others involve payment of money to cover loss due to injury or breach of contract, and still others require a court's declaration of the rights of the parties and an order to honor them.
Involves a child who was previously adopted from overseas (whether the full and final adoption occurred in the foreign country or domestically) but entered foster care as a result of a court terminating the parents' rights or the parents' relinquishing their rights to the child.
A child whose birth parents have had his or her parental rights terminated or whose birth parents have voluntarily given up parental rights through relinquishment.
Includes the intentional masturbation of the perpetrator's genitals in the presence of a child.
Foster family homes, small family homes, group homes, foster family agency certified homes, child care facilities.
Any medical procedure or intervention that will serve only to prolong a state of unconsciousness where there is a reasonable degree of medical authority that such state of unconsciousness is permanent, or prolong a terminal condition."
A criminal history check based upon the submission of the subjects' fingerprints to the DOJ. The inquiry may also include an inquiry of the Child Abuse Central Index and an inquiry of the FBI database, if there is an indication that the subject may have been arrested outside of California, or that the subject has been a resident of California for less than two years. The clearance will confirm the identity of the subject of the inquiry and give the subject's history of arrests and convictions.
Degree to which there are stated, shared and understood safety, well-being, and permanency outcomes and functional life goals for the child and family. The outcomes and goals should outline required protective capacities, desired behavior changes, sustainable supports, and other accomplishments necessary for the child and family to achieve and sustain adequate daily functioning and greater self-sufficiency.
California's federal Medicaid program.
As defined by Civil Code (CIV) Section 56.05(g), is any individually identifiable information, in electronic or physical form, in possession of or derived from a provider of health care, health care service plan, pharmaceutical company, or contractor regarding a patient’s medical history, mental or physical condition, or treatment. This does not include psychotherapy notes (notes made by the therapist about a private therapy session that are kept separate from the rest of the patient’s medical record). These notes are subject to additional privacy protections and cannot be disclosed by therapists even in situations where other PHI may be disclosed.
One or more of the following exist: Previous significant medical problem or chronic illness; possible contagious disease; on medication; and/or, social problem or language barrier which could conceal an unmet medical need.
Children with special health care needs as defined by Assembly Bill 2268. These children have medical conditions and symptoms that require special procedures, may be temporarily or permanently dependent upon medical equipment and/or devices, therapies and may require ongoing medical care and assessment as determined by the child’s physician. The caregiver must have been trained to provide the specialized in-home health care to these children.
A motion for rehearing or reconsideration: seeking to alter or amend a judgment or order.
For youth whose behavior places them at risk of entry into the juvenile justice system, particularly those who are subject of a 241.1 assessment. The goal of the therapy is to improve caregiver discipline practices, enhance family relations, decrease youth association with deviant peers, increase pro-social peers, improve youth school or vocational performance, engage youth in pro-social recreational outlets, and develop a support network of extended family, neighbors, and friends to help achieve and maintain such changes. (Only available in Regional Offices in SPA 6 and 7)
A program which provides a comprehensive, multi-level intervention to children and youth in the child welfare system. MTFC is an evidence-based practice (EBP). MTFC Program provides each youth with short-term treatment (average 6-12 months) in specialized foster home environment where child/youth is the only foster child and has the following: own bedroom, an individual therapist, a skills trainer, attend public school, foster parents trained in the MTFC model, permanent caregivers receive behavior training and family therapy before and after the youth is returned to their home, a program supervisor that coordinates all care and is available 24/7.
The cornerstone of and entry point to the Protective Services Child Health (PSCH) system and the focal point for a community-based Provider Network. The KDMC Hub will provide timely, comprehensive medical, developmental and psychological assessments, as well as on-site preventive health services to children in out-of-home care. In addition, the Hub will assist in the development of a comprehensive child health plan for each child, provide referrals for follow-up care and conduct provider outreach. (DCFS Glossary, from "Hub Services: King/Drew Medical Center (KDMC)")
Any team of three or more people trained in the prevention, identification, management or treatment of child abuse or neglect cases and qualified to provide a broad range of services related to child abuse or neglect. The team may include a CalWORKs case manager, whose primary responsibility is to provide cross program case planning and coordination of CalWORKs child welfare services of those mutual cases or families that may be eligible for CalWORKs services and that, with the informed written consent of the family, receive cross program case planning and coordination.
A near fatality is a severe injury or condition caused by abuse or neglect that results in the child receiving critical care for at least 24 hours following admission to a critical care unit.
The failure to provide a person with necessary care and protection. In the case of a child, the term refers to the failure of a parent(s)/guardian(s) or caretaker(s) to provide the care and protection necessary for the child's healthy growth and development. Neglect occurs when children are physically or psychologically endangered. The term includes both severe and general neglect as defined by Penal Code Section 11165.2 and medically neglected infants as described in 45 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1340.15(b).
A network (also known as a support network, support system, or social support system) refers to an extended group of family, friends, neighbors, professionals, and/or cultural, religious, or other communities that provide support for -- and meet a wide range of needs for -- a parent/caregiver and/or the child/ren (including tribal ICWA programs, Indian organizations, and/or family members, which can include non-related tribal members). The network may consist of individuals or organizations (e.g., religious organizations, community organizations, professional providers) who care about the child/ren or family and who provide or share concrete support (e.g., financial help, transportation, babysitting) or emotional support (e.g., listening, advice).
Children who first, or initially, enter the child welfare system and are placed in out-of-home care under a WIC 300 petition. (This definition includes children in an open case under a Court FM or VFM case plan who are subsequently removed from their biological parents and placed in out-of-home care).
A hearing in which the affiliated parties are not required to appear in order for the court to proceed with the matter at hand.
Non-Child Welfare Department module within CWS/CMS used to enter non-court cases such as Kin-GAP. It contains placement and payment information, the Legal Guardian’s information and case notes. The Probation Department also enters information in the Non-CWD module for cases supervised by their department.
A relative other than the child's birth or adoptive parents.
A person appointed by the Superior Court pursuant to the provisions of the Probate Code or appointed by the Dependency Court pursuant to the provisions of the Welfare and Institutions Code, who does not meet the definition of a 'Related Legal Guardian.'
A hospital, jail, prison, homeless shelter, residential school, rehabilitation center, halfway house, out-of-home care facility, etc. where the individual has lived for more than 90 calendar days. This does not include battered women's shelters.
A current dependent child or ward of the juvenile court, or a nonminor under the transition jurisdiction of the juvenile court, who: has attained 18 years of age while under an order of foster care placement by the juvenile court; is in foster care under the placement and care responsibility of the county welfare department, county probation department, Indian tribe, consortium of tribes, or tribal organization; is participating in a transitional independent living case. Defined by WIC 11400(v).
A nonrelative extended family member is defined as an adult caregiver who has an established familial relationship with a relative of the child or a familial or mentoring relationship with the child. The county welfare department must verify the existence of a relationship through interviews with the parent and child or with one or more third parties.
Includes any sexual contact between the genitals or anal opening of one person and the mouth or tongue of another person.
also known as intravenous feeding, is a method of getting nutrition into the body through the veins. While it is most commonly referred to as total parenteral nutrition (TPN), some patients need to get only certain types of nutrients intravenously.
DPSS term for person receiving services.
This is a six-week, 33-hour program that prepares resource families (foster and adoptive) for the new roles and parenting skills they will need if they adopt. A program of mutual preparation and selection which uses the teamwork approach between foster and adoptive parents and the agency to prepare foster and adoptive parents for theexperience of parenting children with special needs, such as those supervised by DCFS. The program incorporates self-assessment, mutual decision-making and experiential preparation for foster and adoptive planning to help parents decide if their expectations and abilities match the realities of foster and adoptive parenthood.
An economic loss or expense resulting from an injury or death to a victim of crime that has not been and will not be reimbursed from any other source. This is related to compensation from being a Victim of Crime.
Includes any intrusion by one person into the genitals or anal opening of another person, including the use of any object, except for acts performed for a valid medical purpose.
Includes any of the following options: the child returns home, the court approves adoption, legal guardianship, permanent plan living arrangement with a relative/non-relative extended family member, or the child's case is closed.
The services provided to achieve legal permanence for a child when efforts to reunify have failed until the court terminates FR. These services include identifying permanency alternatives, e.g., adoption, legal guardianship, tribal customary adoption and planned permanent living arrangement. Depending on the identified plan, the following activities may be provided: inform parents about adoptive planning and relinquishment, locate potential relative caregivers and provide them with information about permanent plans (e.g., adoption, legal guardianship) and refer the caregiver to the Adoption Division for an adoptive home study, etc.
Permanency Planning Conferences (PPCs) are modeled after TDM meetings to ensure that a multi-disciplinary team of professionals, family members and caregivers meet regularly to focus on the urgent permanency needs of youth. Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
In the context of adoption, substantially correct information regarding a prospective adoptive parent. This shall include, but is not limited to, the following: full legal name; age; religion; race or ethnicity; length of current marriage and number of previous marriages; employment; whether other children or adults reside in the home; whether there are other children who do not reside in the home and the child support obligation for these children and any failure to meet these obligations; any health conditions curtailing normal daily activities or reducing normal life expectancies; any convictions for crimes other than minor traffic violations; any removal of children due to child abuse or neglect; and, general area of residence, or upon request, address.
Pertinent collateral contacts are individuals or agencies with information that can assist the CSW in understanding the nature and extent of the alleged child abuse/neglect and in assessing the risk to and safety of the children. Collateral Contacts include professionals working with the child or parent and have regular contact with the family. Examples include: teachers, parole officers, physicians, DPSS, DMH, therapists, hospitals, and probation.
Non-accidental bodily injury that has been or is being willfully inflicted on a child. It includes willful harming or injuring of a child or endangering of the person or health of a child defined as a situation where any person willfully causes or permits any child to suffer, or inflicts thereon, unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering, or having the care or custody of any child, willfully causes or permits the person or health of the child to be placed in a situation such that his or her person or health is endangered.
Shortcomings that without correction would become a risk to the health, safety, or personal rights of the child. The child can be placed in the home pending completion of the CAP. TANF/CalWORKs is the funding source possibly available to the caregiver until the CAP is completed and eligibility for federal Foster Care funding is determined.
A meeting of attorneys and parties held for the purpose of reaching a negotiated settlement involving joint solutions.
A PPT is held for any pregnant or parenting teen under the Department’s supervision (as well as potential and recent fathers) as a youth-centered approach in order to identify and discuss issues related to pregnancy and early stages of child-rearing as well as breaking intergenerational cycles. Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
Provides for 12 months in a residential program and a 12-month outpatient transitional services program.
i.e., more likely than not
A man is presumed to be the biological father of a child if: He has signed a voluntary declaration of paternity (VDP) or, after January 1, 1997 is identified on the child’s birth certificate; He and the mother are or have been married to each other and the child is born during the marriage or within 300 days after the marriage is terminated; Before the child’s birth, he and the child’s birth mother have attempted to marry each other and the child was born during the attempted marriage or within 300 days after the termination of cohabitation; After the child’s birth, he and the child’s birth mother have married or attempted to marry and either with his consent he is named on the child’s birth certificate or he is obligated to pay child support; He receives the child into his home and openly holds out the child as his birth child; Anyone whom a court has found to be a presumed or legal father (this includes family court, dependency court, and judgments for child support services);Other men who tried to marry the mother or thought they had married the mother (even if it turns out that they did not), and even if after the birth may qualify as a presumed father. Consult County Counsel.
As it pertains to the allegations in a child welfare case, the petition must include enough facts that if later proven, will cause a child to be declared a dependent of the court.
Reasonable cause or a reasonable ground for belief in certain alleged facts (more than a hunch, but less than absolute certainty).
As defined by Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), is health (including mental health) information created or maintained by a health care provider that identifies or can be used to identify a specific individual. PHI relates to an individual’s health, health care or payment for care – in the past, present or future.
Medications used as tools for producing certain chemical and physiological effects in the central nervous system. They are usually classified according to the types of disorders they are primarily used to treat.
A pro bono law office serving low-income children, adults, and families. Through its Children's Rights Project, Public Counsel assists children in civil legal matters such as guardianship, adoption, special education, government benefits, emancipation, teen parenting issues, immigration, mental health services, access to education and transitional services upon emancipation from foster care.
Referral Address Verification System
Includes any penetration however slight, of the vagina or anal opening of one person by the penis of another person, whether or not there is the emission of semen.
An intervention, informed by a Housing First approach, that connects families and individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability to assistance that may include the use of time-limited financial assistance and targeted supportive services.
The law requires child welfare agencies to make reasonable efforts to provide services that will help families remedy the conditions that brought the child and family into the child welfare system. It is based upon a standard of reasonableness, which is a subjective test of what a reasonable person would do in the individual circumstance, taking all factors into account. This includes conducting a Due Diligence search to locate parents whose whereabouts are unknown.
When it is objectively reasonable for a person to entertain a suspicion, based upon facts that could cause a reasonable person in a like position, drawing when appropriate, on his or her training, to suspect child abuse or neglect.
The standard characterized by careful and sensible parental decisions that maintain the child's health, safety, and best interest.
The DCFS office that is responsible for providing services to the child, youth, dependent, or nonminor dependent. Usually, the office where the child's CSW is located.
Court will rule on the request by 5:00 p.m. the day after the request is filed with the court.
An adult who is related to the child by blood, adoption or affinity within the fifth degree of kinship, including stepparents, stepsiblings, and all relatives whose status is preceded by the words, 'great,' 'great-great' or 'grand' or the spouse of any of these persons even if the marriage was terminated by death or dissolution. A former stepparent is considered a relative only if the child is federally eligible.
For the purpose of placement and foster care payments: An adult who is related to the child by blood, adoption or affinity within the fifth degree of kinship, including stepparents, stepsiblings, and all relatives whose status is preceded by the words, "great," "great-great" or "grand" or the spouse of any of these persons even if the marriage was terminated by death or dissolution.
The action of a parent in which he or she surrenders custody, control and any responsibility for the care and support of the child. Currently, only an Adoption social worker or the court is qualified to process a relinquishment.
The RMP is a family centered, multi-departmental, integrated approach to identifying, coordinating and linking appropriate resources/services to meet the needs of children currently in, or at risk of a RCL 6 through 14 placement. Additional information can be found at www.lacdcfs.org/katieA/RMP/. Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
Families that have a foster care license and an approved family assessment that meets the State’s adoption standards. They are dually prepared to provide foster care and support family reunification; but, should reunification not occur, they are approved to provide an adoptive home for a child.
An order issued by the court, which enjoins a person from engaging in a specified behavior or activity, limits the distance a person may approach a specific location and/or person, or excludes a person from a specific dwelling or place of business. See "Emergency Protective Order."
For children aged three or older at the time of initial removal, services are to be provided from the dispositional hearing until the 366.21(f) hearing, unless the child is returned home. For children under the age of three, services are to be provided until the 366.21(e) hearing, unless the child is returned home.
The Review Agent conducts the Grievance Review Hearing. In accordance with CDSS Manual of Policies and Procedures (MPP) 31-020.511-.513, the Review Agent is a staff or other person not involved in the complaint; neither a co-worker nor a person directly in the chain of supervision of any of the persons involved in the complaint unless the Agent is the Director or Chief Deputy of the county; knowledgeable of the field and capable of objectively reviewing the complaint. The Review Agent for Los Angeles County, DCFS is the Manager, Appeals Section.
Supplemental Security Income. This program pays monthly benefits to blind or disabled children/youth who have limited income and resources. It is administered by Social Security.
Specialized Supportive Services - CalWORKs participants eligible to receive GAIN services may be eligible to receive Specialized Supportive Services (e.g., mental health, substance abuse, domestic violence assessment and treatment services) and transportation, child care and other ancillary expenses.
The D-Rate is the rate paid on behalf of hard-to-place children with severe and persistent emotional and/or behavioral problems. This rate can be paid for eligible children placed in the following types of out-of-home care facilities if they have been certified for the D-Rate: foster family homes, non-related legal guardian homes, nonrelative extended family member homes, foster care-eligible relative (Youakim) homes, and small family homes which are not vendorized by Regional Center but are licensed for mentally disordered/emotionally disturbed children.
The school that the foster child attended when permanently housed (prior to detention) or the school in which the foster child was last enrolled. If the school the child attended when permanently housed is different than from the school the child was last enrolled, or if there is some other school that the foster child attended with which he/she is connected (and attended within the immediately preceding 15 months) the local educational agency foster child education liaison, in consultation and agreement with the foster child and their Educational Rights Holder, can determine which school should be the child's school-of-origin.
Is defined as being able to meet one’s basic needs for food, shelter, income, and overall functioning. It is complementary to the goal of permanency, as individuals typically function better when they are surrounded by loving and caring adults. However, if one’s safety net were to be removed, self-sufficient adults would still be able to survive. In order for youth to become thriving, self-sufficient adults, they need to acquire solid assets and skills, early on, in key areas and outcome areas, such as, permanency/housing; education; social and emotional well-being; career/workforce readiness; health and medication. These four outcome areas lay the foundation for a successful transition into adulthood. To develop properly, they must be addressed and nurtured early on, at the first point of contact. Having continuous high expectations for success in these four areas is critical if youth are to have the support they need to achieve self sufficiency.
Reasonable cause to believe that the child has a need for medical care for a serious medical condition; or is in danger of physical or sexual abuse; or the physical environment poses a threat to the child's health or safety.
Penal Code Section 11165.2(a) defines severe neglect as the negligent failure of a person having the care or custody of a child to protect the child from severe malnutrition or medically diagnosed nonorganic failure to thrive. "Severe neglect" also means those situations of neglect where any person having the care or custody of a child willfully causes or permits the person or health of the child to be placed in a situation such that his or her person or health is endangered, as proscribed by Penal Code 11165.3, including the intentional failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, or medical care. Child abandonment would come under this section.
Includes any single act of abuse which causes physical trauma of sufficient severity that, if left untreated, would cause permanent physical disfigurement, permanent physical disability, or death; any single act of sexual abuse which causes significant bleeding, deep bruising, or significant external or internal swelling; or repeated acts of physical abuse, each of which causes bleeding, deep bruising, significant external or internal swelling, bone fracture, or unconsciousness.
The victimization of a child by sexual activities, including, but not limited to, those activities defined in Penal Code Section 11165.1(a)(b)(c). See "sexual assault" and "sexual exploitation."
Conduct in violation of laws pertaining to: Section 261 (rape), 264.1 (rape in concert), 285 (incest), 286 (sodomy), subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 288 (lewd or lascivious acts upon a child under 14 years of age), 288a (oral copulation), 289 (penetration of a genital or anal opening by a foreign object), or 647a (child molestation). If there are no indicators of abuse, “sexual assault” does not include voluntary sodomy, voluntary oral copulation, or voluntary sexual penetration unless the conduct is between a person 21 years of age or older and a minor under 16 years of age.
Conduct involving matter depicting a minor engaged in obscene acts in violation of Section 311.2 (preparing, selling, or distributing obscene matter) or subdivision (a) of Section 311.4 (employment of minor to perform obscene acts). Any person who knowingly promotes, aids or assists, employs, uses, persuades, induces or coerces a child, or any person responsible for a child's welfare who knowingly permits or encourages a child to engage in, or assist others to engage in, prostitution or a live performance involving obscene sexual conduct or to either pose or model alone or with others for the purpose of preparing a film, photograph, negative, slide, drawing, painting or other pictorial depiction involving obscene sexual conduct. 'Person responsible for a child's welfare' means a parent, guardian, foster parent, or a licensed administrator, or employee of a public or private residential home, residential school, or other residential institution. Any person who depicts a child in, or who knowingly develops, duplicates, prints, or exchanges, any film, photograph, video tape, negative, or slide in which a child is engaged in an act of obscene, sexual conduct, except for those activities by law enforcement and prosecution agencies and other persons described in subdivisions (c) and (e) of Section 311.3.'
Sexually Transmitted Infections, including HIV and AIDS, are transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact as well as though direct person-to-person contact with blood or body fluids that contain the infection.
A sibling is defined as a child related to another person by blood, adoption, or affinity through a common legal or biological parent.
The determination of what is considered 'significant contact' by an individual with a child will be determined by the ASFA Division in consultation with County Counsel and regional staff.
Any residential facility in the licensee's family residence, which provides 24-hour care for six or fewer foster children who have mental disorders or developmental or physical disabilities and who require special care and supervision as a result of their disabilities. WIC 11400(e)
Assembly Bill 2268, defines children with special health care needs as those children who are either temporarily or permanently dependent upon medical equipment or in need of other specific kinds of specialized in-home health care, as determined by the child’s physician. See "medically fragile."
Definition for Adoption Assistance Program (AAP), a child whose adoption, without financial assistance, would be unlikely due to one or more of the following factors: age (three years or older),ethnic background, race, color or language, mental, physical, emotional or medical handicap, adverse parental background, membership in a sibling group which should remain intact. In the context of protective services childcare, a child who is mentally or physically incapable of caring for him/herself, as verified by a physician or a licensed or certified psychologist, and requires separate accommodations to be provided with basic childcare. In the context of dependency court, a special needs child is one who has had three or more placements during a 12-month period and has a diagnosis or history of one or more of the following: conduct disorder with aggressive tendencies or antisocial behavior; attention deficit disorder treated by psychotropic drugs; self-destructive or suicidal behavior; use of psychotropic drugs; developmental disability; fire setting; manifestation of psychotic symptoms; somatizing or chronic depression or social isolation; severe sexual acting-out behavior and/or; substance abuse.
A rate paid in addition to the basic care rate for the care of children/youth with special needs.
Any of the following foster homes where the foster parents reside in the home and have been trained to provide specialized in-home health care to foster children: 1) Licensed foster family homes; 2) small family homes or; 3) certified family homes that have accepted placement of a child with special health care needs who is under the supervision and monitoring of a registered nurse employed by, or on contract with, the certifying agency, and who is either of the following: a) a dependent of the court under WIC 300 or; b) developmentally disabled and receiving services and case management from a regional center.
Includes, but is not limited to, those services identified by the child's primary physician as appropriately administered in the home of any of the following: 1) A foster parent trained by health care professionals where the child is being placed in, or is currently in, a specialized foster care home; 2) Group home staff trained by health care professionals pursuant to the discharge plan of the facility releasing the child where the child was placed in the home as of Nov. 1, 1993, and who is currently in the home; 3) a health care professional, where the child is placed in a group home after November 1, 1993. WIC 17710(h)
The act of temporarily stopping a judicial proceeding through the order of a court.
Assesses the child's present danger and the interventions currently needed to protect the child. Assesses whether any children are likely to be in immediate danger of serious harm/maltreatment and determines what interventions should be initiated or maintained to provide appropriate protection.
A thirty (30) day pass good for MTA travel only. Students must have an appropriate MTA ID Card to obtain the pass. Student Cardholders are provided with a Student TAP Card each month. There is no charge for the Card itself. Students can pick-up a photo-less Metro Student Dare ID Card (K-8 or 9-12) at participating schools or one of the four Metro Customer Centers.
Substance Abuse and Drug Testing Services are available to determine whether parents or caregivers’ abilities are impaired by the use of alcohol and drugs; if parents/caregivers need to be referred for alcohol/substance abuse treatment, and to monitor progress in treatment. Test results are used as part of the evaluation process to determine if children can remain safely in the home of their parents and caregivers, or if children can be safely returned to the care of their parents and caregivers.
A report determined by the investigator conducting the investigation to constitute child abuse or neglect, as defined in Section 11165.6, based upon evidence that makes it more likely than not that child abuse or neglect, as defined, occurred.
SILP is a supervised and approved placement that is part of the Extended Foster Care program. SILP is a flexible and the least restrictive placement setting. It can include: an apartment (alone or with roommates); shared living situations; room and board arrangements; room rented from a landlord, friend or relative, or former caregiver; or college dorms.
CWS/CMS services component for nonminor dependents (NMD) under which the required Extended Foster Care (EFC) participation criteria must be indicated.
SOC refers to a continuum of care for children and their families, which meets their mental, emotional, and behavioral needs. The program focuses on treatment for children and youth who are at risk of placement in either a group home or a more restrictive setting. An Inter- Agency Screening Committee comprised of representatives from DCFS, Department of Mental Health, the Probation Department, Special Education Local Planning Area, and local school districts, screens these type of cases. Services may include intensive in-home treatment, in-home support services, daily living skills, mental health services, crisis intervention, respite care, parent training, school intervention and therapeutic foster homes.
Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
The Transit Access Pass (TAP) Card is a monthly pass good for MTA travel only.
A process utilizing a multidisciplinary assessment and team approach in working with children and their families. Includes community-based social workers and other child and family service providers that assist the family in identifying local supports that could help reduce stresses and improve family life. Parents play a key role in identifying their needs and the supports that would be most helpful in addressing them. Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
The removal of a child from the home of a parent or legal guardian and placement or facilitation of placement of the child in the home of a non-offending parent, relative, foster caregiver; group home or institutional setting.Temporary custody also includes: placing hospital holds on children; situations in which the CSW interrupts an established Family Law Court custody or visitation orders when the CSW believes that if the order is carried out, the child would be placed in immediate risk of abuse, neglect or exploitation and the child is allowed to remain in the home of the non-offending parent; situations in which DCFS requests that law enforcement remove a child from the home of his or her parent/legal guardian and the CSW places the child with a relative or unrelated caregiver; and situations in which the child is living with a relative or an unrelated caregiver and all of the following conditions exist: child’s parent is asking for the child to be returned home, CSW believes that the return of the child to his or her parent would place the child at risk of abuse, neglect or exploitation, CSW does not allow the child to be returned to his or her parent; and, the child remains in the home of the relative or is placed in out-of-home care.
When a child is declared free from the care custody and control of his or her birth parents by court action.
A free legal services organization focused solely on protecting the rights of impoverished, abused and neglected children in Los Angeles County – children in foster care, children with educational disabilities, children who need healthcare or public benefits, and children in need of legal guardianship or adoption.
For the purposes of assigning Dependency Investigation tasks, a traditional residence is a house, an apartment, room(s) in a shared house or apartment, or another residence not included under the definition of non-traditional residence.
Hearing held by the receiving county court to determine if the case transfer request will be accepted.
Hearing held by the sending county court to determine the appropriateness of the transfer request. The court may order a case transferred to a different county during the Transfer-Out Hearing.
A home that has been licensed or approved by an Indian child’s tribe or a tribal organization designated by the Indian child’s tribe, for foster or adoptive placements of an Indian child using standards established by the tribe.
In the context of adoption, a person who has applied to adopt a child but has not been matched with an available child, and is therefore considered "unattached" to a particular child. An applicant for adoption who is not already linked with a specific child to adopt.
In the context of adoption, a child for whom adoption is the identified permanent plan but for whom no prospective adoptive parent has been identified.
A report determined by the investigator conducting the investigation to be false, inherently improbably, to involve an accidental injury, or not constituting child abuse or neglect as defined in Section 11165.6.
An aggressive, standardized approach to infection control which treats all human blood and certain body fluids as if they were known to contain blood-borne pathogens.The extension of blood and body fluid precautions to all patients. Under universal precautions, blood and certain body fluids of all patients are considered potentially infectious for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and other bloodborne pathogens. (CDC)
Authorities, e.g. CSWs, law enforcement, etc, have reasonable evidence that a parent is abusive, cannot provide love and support to the child, or will in some significant way interfere with the examination.
The provision of non-court, time-limited protective services to families whose children are in potential danger of abuse, neglect, or exploitation when the children can safely remain in the home with DCFS services. In order to receive VFM services, the family must be willing to accept them and participate in corrective efforts to ensure that the child's protective needs are met. There is a six-month time limit for this service.
The foster care placement of a child by or with the participation of DCFS acting on behalf of CDSS, after the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the child have requested the assistance of DCFS and signed a voluntary placement agreement form.
A legal document filed by DCFS in juvenile dependency court alleging that a child is described under Welfare and Institution Code (WIC) 300.
A hearing will be held no later than 120 days from the date of the Permanency Review Hearing. The purpose of a WIC Section 366.26 hearing is to identify and implement a permanent plan for a dependent child of the court. The court will then make findings and orders in the following order of preference: permanently terminate the rights of the parent or parents and order that the child be placed for adoption; or, without permanently terminating parental rights, identify adoption as the goal and order that efforts be made to locate an appropriate adoptive family for the child within a period not to exceed 180 days; or, appoint a legal guardian and issue letters of guardianship; or, order that the child be placed in long-term foster care, subject to the periodic review of the court under WIC 366.3.
A request to submit a report to the court when a hearing is not calendared, but the matter requires immediate court attention. Walk-on hearings may be appearance or non-appearance matters.
The Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) section that describes abuse, neglect, exploitation, and other endangerment situations and conditions whereby a child may be removed from the care and custody of parents or legal guardians and declared a dependent of the court under DCFS supervision.
W-Homes provide foster care to dependent teen parents and their non-dependent children, while assisting the teen parent’s to develop the skills they will need to provide a safe, stable and permanent home for their children. This is not a new licensing category. A W-Home can be a family home, approved relative caregiver or non-relative extended family member’s (NREFM) home, or the home of a non-related legal guardian whose guardianship was established pursuant to WIC Section 366.26 or 360.
A situation where any person willfully causes or permits any child to suffer, or inflicts thereon, unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering or having the care or custody of any child, willfully causes or permits the person or health of the child to be placed in a situation such that his or her person or health is endangered.
These include concerns the family, team members or DCFS have related to the safety of the children/youth. The worries help the team identify what is important to ensure a safe and secure future for the children/youth.
Wraparound is a multi-agency initiative. The Wraparound approach is a family-centered, strengths-based, needs-driven planning and service delivery process. It advocates for family-professional partnership to ensure family voice, choice and ownership. Wraparound children and family teams benefits children by working with the family to ensure Permanency. Wraparound is funded through Title IV-E funds. The average length of involvement with the program is 8 months. The primary focus of the program is to keep children out of residential placements and maintain them safely in their family and community.
The practice of using flipchart pads and markers to write all brainstormed team responses to the agenda items during the CFT meeting. Examples of what is charted include: Family goal, non-negotiables, strengths, worries, needs and the plan for "what could go wrong".
Refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, activities, and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for boys and men or girls and women. These influence the ways that people act, interact, and feel about themselves. Gender is different from Sex in that Sex is assigned at birth.
an internal understanding of one’s own gender (e.g. a person’s internal sense of being male, female or something else). Therefore, a transgender person’s gender identity does not match the sex assigned to him or her at birth.
Ideas on what possible needs may be driving a person's behavior.
Matters related to the safety and well-being of the child(ren)/youth that cannot be changed at the present time (e.g. children cannot be supervised by anyone under the influence). Non-negotiables are focused on the "now" and should give the team ideas about the limits to planning and clarity on what cannot be compromised.
A continuous learning process in which you think about your practice, and consciously analyze your decision-making. It is an important tool in developing insight based on professional experiences, drawing on theory and relating it to practice.
A continuous process by which the "right people" for the child, youth and family have formed a CFT that meets, talks and plans together. The CFT has the skills, family knowledge and abilities, necessary to define the strengths and needs of the child and family, in order to organize effective services specific to their needs.
A need is what drives a behavior and what makes a behavior functional for the person. The child and/or youth's needs should be the focus of the teaming process to ensure their safety and well-being. Recognizing the individual and family needs is central to the family-engagement and planning process.
Degree to which the focus child(ren), parents (including the non-custodial parent), family members, and caregivers are active ongoing participants (e.g. having a significant role, voice, choice and influence) in shaping decisions made about child and family strengths and needs, goals, supports and services.