This policy guide was updated from the 12/09/15 version to add an instruction that the Simple Notice Application (SNAP) is now required for all Dependency Court notices, JV-290 INFO and JV-290 forms, and to add information regarding electronic notice in accordance with AB 879 (2015).
POLICY
Notification of Mailing and Email Address
Upon his or her appearance before the court, each parent or guardian is asked to designate for the court, his or her permanent mailing address. The court advises each parent or guardian that the designated mailing address will be used by the court and DCFS for notice purposes unless and until the parent or guardian notifies the court or DCFS of a new mailing address, in writing, via the JV-140, Notification of Mailing Address form. If the parents agree to receive Notices of Hearing via email, they must provide written consent at court by signing the EFS-005-JV/JV-141, Email Notice of Hearing: Consent, Withdrawal of Consent, Address Change form on the record. Therefore, CSWs do not need to request or obtain parents’ consent for electronic notice.
Specialized Notice Requirements
Incarcerated Parents / Parents Detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Regardless of the type of custody facility or whether an incarcerated parent is incarcerated in Los Angeles County, other parts of California, or out of state, notice rules for the specified hearing must be followed.
If a parent is incarcerated in the state of California, the CSW must call the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (916) 445-6713, and/or search their website, to determine where a parent is incarcerated and to obtain the correct address.
If a parent is in federal custody, the CSW must contact the United States Bureau of Prisons (202) 307-3198and/or search their website.
Per SB 1064 (2012), parents detained by ICE who have an ongoing dependency case in California have services available to allow family reunification efforts to proceed.
Parents can participate in custody proceedings by phone, teleconference or other electronic means.
Parents detained by ICE can have visits with their children, caseworkers and attorneys.
Each ICE field office will have a coordinator to serve as the point of contact for parental interest matters for social workers and child welfare court officials.
The ICE ERO (Office of Enforcement and Removal Operations) Detention Reporting and Information Line is a toll-free service that provides a direct channel for agency stakeholders to communicate directly with ERO to answer questions and resolve concerns. Stakeholders may reach the ICE ERO Detention Reporting and Information Line by dialing 1-888-351-4024. Live trained operators are available Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (EST) to respond to inquiries from those in ICE detention and from community members. Language assistance, including Spanish operators, is also available.
CSWs are only required to submit a removal order for an incarcerated parent for the following two (2) hearings:
Jurisdictional/Dispositional hearings to adjudicate a child as a dependent of the court.
WIC section 366.26 hearings to terminate parental rights (TPR)
It is not legally required for an incarcerated parent to be present at a WIC section 366.26 hearing in order to appoint a legal guardian or when the permanent plan is a permanent placement living arrangement.
It is best practice to request a removal order for all appearance hearings when a parent is incarcerated in a Los Angeles County or local facility/jail.
There is no mechanism to transport out-of-state inmates or individuals in federal custody to the dependency court, except for parents detained by ICE. ICE shall arrange for a detained parent's appearance at his or her family court or child welfare proceeding. If appearance in person is not feasible, ICE will work to facilitate alternative means of participation.
There is no removal order process for incarcerated minor parents. The CSW should send a regular hearing notice and work with Probation Department to locate the minor parent and to arrange transportation.
Parents Who Reside Outside of the United States
DCFS has a legal obligation to comply with the Hague Service Convention, including all noticing requirements, when a parent resides outside of the United States in a country that is a member of the Hague Convention, even when it is not court ordered for a parent to be noticed per the Hague Convention.
For Hague cases, the CSW must use the State Department website to look up the type of notices required in the parent(s)' country of residence.
The Simple Notice Application (SNAP) automatically generates the required forms in the appropriate languages. For assistance with Hague notice, CSWs should contact the Office of County Counsel, who will send the remaining documents for translation. CSWs do not need to complete this task themselves.
If the country requires the notice to be in Spanish, the CSW should check with the State Department website to determine if the country has any specific translation requirements. Some countries require the translation into Spanish to be certified. If certification is required, the CSW should contact County Counsel for assistance.
Adjudication/Disposition hearings, if the parent has not made a general appearance.
WIC section 366.26 hearings, when the DCFS recommendation is to terminate parental rights, and the parent has not made a general appearance.
Sensitive Cases
If a child's case is marked as sensitive, contact the Sensitive Case Unit (SCU) for assistance in obtaining addresses and contact information for noticing. Sensitive cases include but are not limited to involved parties who are:
Celebrities;
Public figures;
Elected officials;
DCFS employees;
Some active Los Angeles County law enforcement employees.
Children Age Ten (10) and Older
In addition to the required notice, if a child is ten (10) years of age or older, he/she has the right to attend a hearing and must be given the opportunity to attend, even if he/she is incarcerated/institutionalized. CSWs must arrange for the child's transportation if the child wishes to attend the hearing.
If the child was not properly notified or if he/she wished to be present and was not given the opportunity to be present at a hearing, the court will continue the hearing to allow the child to be present unless the court finds that it is in the best interests of the child not to continue the hearing.
Nonminor Dependents (NMDs)
Once a youth turns eighteen (18) and becomes a nonminor dependent, the parents' attorneys are relieved at the hearing, at which point no notice is required for a parent, unless he/she is receiving continued family reunification (FR) services.
For youth who fall under Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), the child's tribe must continue to receive notification of hearings unless the NMD has elected not to have the provisions of ICWA continue to apply to his/her case after turning age eighteen (18).
A CSW is required to give notice of review hearings and termination of jurisdiction hearings involving NMDs to the following individuals:
The NMD;
Any known siblings of the NMD, if that sibling is either the subject of a dependency court proceeding or has been adjudged to be a dependent child of the juvenile court;
If the sibling is ten (10) years of age or older, notice the sibling, the sibling's caregiver, and the sibling's attorney;
If the sibling is under ten (10) years of age, notice the sibling's caregiver and the sibling's attorney;
These requirements only apply when the sibling(s)' hearing is calendared on a different day or in a different court than the NMD's hearing.
The current caregiver of the NMD;
If NMDs are not able to attend a court hearing in person, telephonic court appearances are allowed.
If the court is considering the termination of jurisdiction of an NMD, the CSW must ensure that the NMD is present in court unless he/she does not wish to appear in court. The exception is when the NMD has elected a telephonic appearance or when efforts were made to locate the NMD but were unsuccessful and when those efforts have been documented.
Caregiver's Notice and Right to be Heard
The child/NMD's current caregiver is entitled to receive notice of, and to have the opportunity to be heard at, hearings outlined below. The right to be heard includes the right to submit written information to the court, including by using the JV-290, Caregiver Information Form, or by submitting a letter to the court.
The JV-290 INFO, Instruction Sheet for Caregiver Information Form, provides the caregiver with directions on how to complete the form and file it with the court.
SNAP is a computer system designed and maintained by the County Counsel to help CSWs fulfill court notice requirements, including Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) notices.
It is required that SNAP be used for all notices, all JV-290 Caregiver Information forms, and all JV-290-INFO Instructions to Complete the Caregiver Information forms. Before generating the JV-290 and the JV-290-INFO forms in SNAP:
Check the caregiver/child relationship on the Related Clients page in CWS/CMS for accuracy, and ensure that it is: "court/client caretaker"
Check CWS/CMS for an exact match of the child's and caretaker's addresses
All court and attorney information in SNAP comes directly from the Odysseysystem. If the most current attorney information is not listed in SNAP, staff should use the "Report a Bug" feature to alert the system administrator, who can then update the system accordingly.
All family-related information in SNAP comes from CWS/CMS. SNAP maintains information on hearing dates, the individuals who are required to be noticed, and the method that notices are to be provided.
SNAP features an internal court control log thattracks upcoming hearing dates, the individuals who are required to receive notice, and the method in which notices must be provided to those individuals. SNAP also tracks the dates that notices are due to be sent out and indicates whether or not they have been completed for each case.
If parties appear in court and agree on the record to electronic noticing and sign the EFS-005-JV/JV-141 at court, the addresses will be entered into the system at court and SNAP will automatically send electronic notices for court hearings.
If a parent is incarcerated, SNAP should be used to prepare the In-and-Out or Statewide removal order.
When a removal order is created, SNAP automatically creates two (2) notices for the parent(s): one (1) that is addressed to the parent(s) in the facility and one (1) to their last known address.
If a parent resides in Mexico, SNAP automatically generates all required forms pursuant to the Hague Service Conventionif the user selects the appropriate boxes during the SNAP questionnaire. After completing the Hague notices in SNAP, users should email Effie Williams at EWilliams@counsel.lacounty.gov for assistance. Please note that there must be four (4) months remaining until the next hearing date. The Office of County Counsel will send the required documents out for translation services as required.
SNAP helps to ensure that ICWA notices are correct before they are sent out by allowing CSWs to communicate with the County Counsel beforehand to increase the probability of accuracy in ICWA notices, thus eliminating the need for future revisions. The American Indian Unit is available for consultation at (626) 938-1601 for any questions regarding ICWA notice.
Users are automatically assigned in SNAP when given a primary case assignment in CWS/CMS, or when given a secondary assignment as the only Dependency Investigator on a CWS/CMS case.
User IDs in SNAP match the user names in CWS/CMS (i.e., they are not “e” + employee number).
Notice to minors and NMDs may be provided by email if that youth is 16 years or older, they have signed the EFS-005-JV/JV-141, and the youth’s attorney has consented to electronic notice by signing the EFS-005-JV/JV-141.
Youth ages 14-15 may also consent to notice via email; however, they must also receive notice by regular mail (and/or personal service, when required).
Notices for WIC section 366.26 hearings may also be provided by email, but notice by personal service or publication is still required if the Department is recommending termination of parental rights. Electronic noticing is supplemental only and is not a substitute for personal service or publication requirements.
Using SNAP will result in immediate electronic notification to clients.
Mailing Court Reports with Notices
If a court report is completed and approved by a SCSW at the time the notice(s) are completed, a CSW is to mail the court report, any attachments, and the notice to the parents and any child if who is over twelve (12) years of age. Court reports for status review and WIC section 366.26 hearings must be provided to applicable parties ten (10) calendar days prior to the hearing.
Date of mailing of the court report is to be documented, for each party, on the JV-510, Proof of Service (POS).
Confidential and privileged information and/or attachments should not be mailed (addresses can be flagged as confidential in both the CWS/CMS client notebook's ID page and in SNAP). Such information includes, but is not limited to:
Confidential addresses (the "Confidentiality In Effect" checkbox on the ID page of the CWS/CMS Client Notebook should be used to designate a client address as confidential);
Locations of persons in domestic violence shelters;
Reproductive information concerning minors;
Information concerning some sexually transmitted diseases.
When a CSW has a question regarding the confidentiality and/or the privileged disclosure of information contained in an attachment, he/she must consult the trial County Counsel or an out-stationed County Counsel.
The identity of the reporting party is confidential and must not be disclosed.
Anything from the County Counsel's office to the CSW is privileged and must not be attached to court reports.
Children Under the Provisions of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) or American Indian Children from Federally Recognized Tribes
The following requirements are in addition to the requirements listed for each hearing, unless otherwise specified or amended.
Responsible Parties
The CSW is responsible for providing notice for the hearing.
Notice Recipients
In addition to the parties requiring notice for a specified hearing, if a child may come under the provisions of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), or is an Indian child from a federally recognized tribe, notice must be provided to the following parties along with the documents listed under Method of Service and Time frame, unless otherwise specified or amended:
Person/Entity to be Noticed
Exceptions/Further Requirements
Parent and/or legal guardian
All federally recognized tribes in which the child may claim or may be eligible for membership by tribal affiliation (tribe/Rancheria), if known
Notice must be sent to the individuals at the address on the list of designated agents for service developed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and to the contact person and address from the California Department of Social Services (CDSS).
Refer to the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Tribal Registry to obtain the address of federally recognized tribes (staff may also contact the Indian Child Welfare Unit at (626) 938-1601 to obtain the most current contact list).
If the address of the tribe is unknown, contact the Indian Child Welfare Unit at (626) 938-1601 for assistance in locating updated tribal information.
To obtain the address of the federally recognized tribe(s), refer to the federal register at BIA Tribe Listing or contact the Indian Child Welfare Unit at (626) 938-1601.
Notice the tribal Chairperson, unless the tribe has designated another agent for service in the BIA list of designated agents.
If the tribe has not designated another agency for service in the BIA list of designated agents and the name of the tribal Chairperson is unknown, address notice to the tribe as follows: "Tribal Chair Person, [Name of Tribe]."
For NMDs, only send notice when the NMD has elected to have ICWA continue to apply past his/her eighteenth (18th) birthday.
Indian Custodian
Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)
Send the notice to the:
Sacramento Area Director
Bureau of Indian Affairs
Federal Office Building
2800 Cottage Way
Sacramento, CA 95825
Secretary of the Interior (SOI)
Send the notice to the:
U.S. Department of the Interior
Bureau of Indian Affairs
1849 C Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20240
Method of Service and Time Frame (ICWA)
Notice must be provided according to the following guidelines for cases involving children falling under the ICWA criteria, in addition to the noticing guidelines for a specific hearing:
Method of Service and Time Frame
Type of Notice
ICWA-030, Notice of Child Custody Proceeding for Indian Child. This must be used until one (1) of the following applies:
The court finds the notice proper.
The tribe acknowledges in writing that the child is not a member and is not eligible for membership, and the court determines that ICWA does not apply.
It has been more than sixty (60) calendar days since the tribe received the notice, it has not responded, and the court determines the ICWA does not apply.
The tribe intervenes.
The tribe acknowledges in writing that the child is a member of the tribe or is eligible for membership.
When a federally recognized tribe confirms that a child is American Indian, the tribe must be noticed for all hearings regarding the Indian child.
The Indian tribe must receive the Regular Notice form that is required for that hearing. Afterward, the ICWA-030 is no longer used and no further notice is required for BIA or SOI.
Each child must have his/her own ICWA-030 notice completed.
Multiple children cannot be listed on the ICWA-030.
The ICWA-030 can be automatically generated from SNAP
ICWA-030(A), Attachment to Notice of Child Custody Proceedings for Indian Child.
To be used only if all tribes served were not listed on the ICWA-030.
At least thirty (30) calendar days prior to the hearing, when possible:
The ICWA-030 must be received:
By any tribe, at least ten (10) calendar days prior to the hearing
By federal agencies, at least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the hearing
For detention hearings:
Notice must be given as soon as possible after the filing of the petition.
Proof of Notice must be filed with the court within ten (10) calendar days after the filing of the petition.
Exceptions/Further Requirements
The notice must contain the following statements:
That the parent or Indian custodian and the tribe have a right to intervene at any point in the proceedings;
That the parent or Indian custodian and the tribe will upon request be granted up to twenty (20) additional calendar days to prepare for the proceedings.
The ICWA-030 accompanies the required notice to the parent/legal guardian (JV-300), which must be updated to reflect the permanency option of Tribal Customary Adoption (TCA) for American Indian children, if recommended by the child's Indian tribe.
If a 366.26 hearing is continued to file the Tribal Customary Adoption Order (TCAO), use the JV300, Notice of Hearing on Selection of a Permanent Plan – Juvenile, to notice all appropriate parties, including the child's tribe.
As proof of sending notice, the CSW must file the following with the court before the hearing:
Copies of notices sent – ICWA 030; ICWA 030A; ICWA-010(A), Petition, regular notice of hearing
All return receipts
For any responses from the tribes, BIA and Secretary of the Interior.
Initial Petition/Detention Hearing, Including Ex Parte Application
Responsible Parties
The detaining CSW must provide either oral or written notice for both detained and non-detained petitions. The CSW and Clerk must, by law, serve the notice and a copy of the petition when a petition is filed. The CSW must document the method of notice provided for all parties in the Detention Report.
When filing a petition on a child with siblings on an open case, the Case-Carrying CSW/Emergency Response/Command Post (ERCP) CSW must notice the required persons by telephone or in writing (Notification Letter) at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to the hearing.
For continued Initial Petition/Detention Hearings, the detaining CSW or Dependency Investigator (DI) CSW is responsible for providing notice to all required persons entitled to receive notice.
Notice Recipients
The following parties must be served a notice for initial petitions and detention hearings, including Ex Parte Applications:
Person Required to be Noticed
Exceptions/Further Requirements
Mother(s)
Unless parental rights have been terminated.
Father(s)
To all presumed and alleged, unless parental rights have been terminated.
Legal guardian(s)
If a parent/legal guardian resides out-of state or his/her whereabouts are unknown:
Send the notice to any adult relative residing within the county or, if there are none, to the adult relative residing nearest to the court.
List the name(s) and address(es) of the relative in the indicated space on the cover sheet of the petition.
Provide notice of the hearing and, if possible, a copy of the petition to the relative who will serve as a substitute for the parent/legal guardian.
Child(ren)
When ten (10) years of age or older.
Attorney(s)
Only if attorney was not present in court at the time the hearing was set.
Any known sibling(s), if that sibling is either the subject of a dependency court proceeding or has been adjudged to be a dependent child of the juvenile court
The following requirements only apply when the sibling's hearing is calendared on a different day or in a different court than the child's hearing.
If the sibling is ten (10) years of age or older, notice the sibling, the sibling's caregiver, and the sibling's attorney.
If the sibling is under ten (10) years of age, notice the sibling's caregiver and the sibling's attorney.
Probate Court
If the probate court granted legal guardianship.
Child Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)
If any
Method of Service and Time Frame (Initial Petition/Detention Hearing)
For initial petition and detention hearings, there are separate notices for the Edelman Children's Court and the Antelope Valley court. The responsible CSW must provide notice according to the following guidelines:
If oral notice is used, CSW must file a declaration stating so and for whom.
Written (Notification Letter) via first class mail, if unable to provide oral notice.
First class mail in the recipient's primary language.
If the parent/legal guardian is unable to read, provide oral notice.
Time Frame
As soon as possible, and at least five (5) days prior to the hearing unless the hearing is set less than 5 days prior, then at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to the hearing:
Notification Letter must be sent by 4:00pm on the day the child is detained.
As soon as possible, and at least ten (10) calendar days prior to the hearing.
Exceptions/ Further Requirements
If CSW was either unable to mail a Notification Letter and a JV-100 by 4:00pm due to the timing of the detention or if the parent/legal guardian is unable to read, provide oral notice.
Method of Service and Time Frame (Continued Initial Petition/Detention Hearing)
First class mail in the recipient's primary language;electronic notice (with written consent).
First class mail in the recipient's primary language;electronic notice (with written consent).
Time Frame
As soon as possible, but at least five (5) calendar days prior to the hearing.
However, if the hearing is set in less than five (5) days, notice must be given at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to the hearing.
As soon as possible, and at least ten (10) calendar days prior to the hearing.
Exceptions/ Further Requirements
For children retained in custody, a Notification Letter is only necessary if the detaining CSW was unable to provide oral notice for the initial hearing.
If the person requiring notice is in criminal custody, send the written notice and petition to the place on incarceration within the required time frame.
If the person requiring notice is in criminal custody, send the written notice and petition to the place of incarceration within the required time frame.
For ex parte applications, telephonic notice of the request must be provided no less than twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the hearing. The date and time if the hearing must be approved by the court.
Jurisdictional/Dispositional Hearing (PRC)
Responsible Parties
The Dependency Investigator (DI) CSW or the case-carrying CSW in a vertical case management section is responsible for providing notices.
Notice Recipients
The following parties must be served a notice:
Person Required to be Noticed
Exceptions/ Further Requirements
Mother(s)
Unless parental rights have been terminated.
Father(s)
All presumed and alleged, unless parental rights have been terminated.
Legal guardian(s)
If a parent/legal guardian resides out-of state or their whereabouts are unknown:
Send the notice to any adult relative residing within the county or, if there are none, to the adult relative residing nearest to the court.
List the name(s) and address(es) of the relative in the indicated space on the cover sheet of the petition.
Provide notice of the hearing and, if possible, a copy of the petition to the relative who will serve as a substitute for the parent/legal guardian.
Child(ren)
When ten (10) years of age or older.
Attorney(s)
Notice counsel for parent(s), minor(s); counsel for legal guardians, Indian custodians (as applicable) -- unless the attorney was present in court when the hearing date was scheduled.
Any known sibling(s), if that sibling is either the subject of a dependency court proceeding or has been adjudged to be a dependent child of the juvenile court
The following requirements only apply when the sibling's hearing is calendared on a different day or in a different court than the child's hearing:
If the sibling is ten (10) years of age or older, notice the sibling, the sibling's caregiver, and the sibling's attorney.
If the sibling is under ten (10) years of age, notice the sibling's caregiver and the sibling's attorney.
Child Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)
If any
Child's Current Caregiver
Caregivers include a foster parent, pre-adoptive parent, relative caregiver, and nonrelative extended family member (NREFM).
Provide them notice only when the recommendation is for "No Reunification Services" and the dispositional hearing is serving as a permanency hearing under WIC section 361.5(f).
Method of Service and Time Frame (PRC Hearing)
The responsible party is to provide notice according to the following guidelines:
Child in Custody
Child Not in Custody
Type of Notice
CT-NOTPET, Notice of Hearing on Petition (SNAP).
If including a summary of recommendations for a caregiver, use the notice form in their primary language.
If the recommendation is for "No Reunification Services", add the following typed notice to the end of the petition and on the face of the JV-100 in capitalized, bold type:
"The Department of Children and Family Services may seek an order pursuant to WIC section 361.5(b) that no reunification services must be provided to the family, which would result in immediate permanency through termination of parental rights, adoption, legal guardianship, placement with a fit and willing relativeor another planned living arrangement."
If not filed in the case records, give to all alleged father(s).
JV-290, Juvenile Council Caregiver Information Form:
Generate in SNAP.
Give only to child's current caregiver, if applicable, in his/her primary language.
JV-290 INFO, Juvenile Council Caregiver Information Form Letter:
Generate in SNAP.
Give only to child's current caregiver, if applicable, in his/her primary language.
DCFS JV-290 Cover Letter, Cover Letter:
Give only to child's current caregiver, if applicable, in his/her primary language.
Use the same forms as a child who is detained.
Delivery Method
When required person was not present at initial hearing:
Personal service or by certified mail return receipt requested (CMRRR). All CMRRR evidence of mailing and any returned receipts must be filed with the court.
When required person was present at initial hearing:
Personal service, first class mail, or electronic notice (with written consent).
Personal service, first class mail or electronic notice (with written consent).
Time Frame
As soon as possible and at least five (5) calendar days prior to the hearing.
If hearing is set less than five (5) calendar days prior, then at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to the hearing.
At least ten (10) calendar days prior to the hearing.
Exceptions/ Further Requirements
If the recommendation is "No Reunification Services:"
Send a summary of recommendation for disposition with the JV-290, JV-290 INFO and DCFS JV-290 Cover Letter to the current caregiver. Do not send the jurisdiction/disposition report.
Include the summary of recommendations on the CT-NOTPET notice form (SNAP).
If the caregiver returns the JV-290 to the CSW instead of the court, submit the JV-290 to court prior to the hearing.
If received after the report has been sent to court, forward the JV-290 with a Last Minute Information (LMI) for the Court.
If not received in time to forward with a LMI, fax the JV-290 to the Juvenile Court Services (JCS) liaison.
If any parent's/legal guardian's whereabouts are unknown:
Initiate a Due Diligence search according to established procedures.
Send the notice to all potential or last known addresses identified on the Due Diligence Report.
For Subsequent jurisdictional/dispositional hearings:
Send notices for all hearings for which there is sufficient time to send the notice within statutory limits, unless specifically ordered by the court not to do so.
Notice under the Hague Service Convention is required if the parent resided outside the United States and has not made a general court appearance.
Same exceptions/further requirements, as a child who is detained.
WIC Section 364, 366.21, 366.22, 366.25, 366.3 or 366.31 Status Review Hearing
Responsible Parties
The case-carrying CSW must provide notice to the following parties when a WIC section 364, 366.21, 366.22, 366.25, 366.3 or 366.31 Status Review Hearing has been calendared.
Notice Recipients
The following parties must be served a notice:
Person Required to be Noticed
Exceptions/Further Requirements
Mother(s)
Unless parental rights have been terminated
No notice is required for a parent of a nonminor dependent (NMD), unless requested by the NMD or the parent who is receiving continued family reunification (FR) services.
Father(s)
Unless parental rights have been terminated.
For WIC section 364, 366.21, 366.22, & 366.25 hearings, notice:
Presumed father
Any adult male receiving services per court order
For WIC section 366.3 hearings, notice both:
Presumed father
Alleged father, if the recommendation is to set a new 366.26 hearing
No notice is required for a parent of a nonminor dependent (NMD), unless requested by the NMD or the parent is receiving continued family reunification (FR) services.
Legal guardian(s)
Child(ren) or NMD(s)
If ten (10) years or older,
For NMDs, notice must be sent to any known siblings of the NMD, the current caregiver of the NMD, and the NMD's court appointed special advocate (CASA).
If the NMD cannot attend the court hearing in person, telephonic court appearances are allowed.
If the court is considering termination of jurisdiction, ensure that the NMD is present in court unless any of the following apply:
He/she does not wish to appear in court;
He/she elects a telephonic appearance;
Unsuccessful efforts have been made to locate the NMD and these efforts have been documented.
Attorney(s)
Notice counsel for parent(s), minor(s), legal guardians, Indian custodians (as applicable) --unless the attorney was present in court when the hearing was scheduled.
Any known sibling, if that sibling is either the subject of a dependency proceeding or has been adjudged to be a dependent child of the juvenile court
If the sibling is ten (10) years of age or older, notice the sibling, the sibling's caregiver, and the sibling's attorney.
If the sibling is under ten (10) years of age, notice the sibling's caregiver and the sibling's attorney.
These requirements only apply when the sibling's hearing is calendared on a different day or in a different court than the child's hearing.
CASA
If applicable
Child or NMD's current caregiver
Caregivers include a foster parent, pre-adoptive parent, relative caregiver, nonrelative extended family member (NREFM), community care facility, or foster family agency (FFA) having custody of the child.
If notice is sent to the FFA and not directly to the caregiver's home certified by the FFA, the FFA must provide timely notice to the child's caregiver.
Method of Service and Time Frame (Status Review Hearing)
The responsible party is to provide notice according to the following guidelines:
Type of Notice
JV-280, Notice of Review Hearing – Juvenile (except NMDs)
JV-290, Juvenile Council Caregiver Information Form
Generate in SNAP.
Give the form only to child's current caregiver, if applicable, in his/her primary language.
JV-290 INFO, Juvenile Council Caregiver Information Form
Generate in SNAP.
Give only to child's current caregiver, if applicable, in his/her primary language.
DCFS JV-290 Cover Letter
Give only to child's current caregiver, if applicable, in his/her primary language.
Delivery Method
First class mail, certified mail return receipt requested (CMRRR), personal service or electronic notice with written consent within the same time frames.
Time Frame
Notice of Review Hearing:
No earlier than thirty (30) calendar days but no later than fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the hearing.
Status Review Report and Transitional Independent Living Case Plan for youth fourteen (14) and over:
In California, at least seventeen (17) calendar days prior to the hearing.
Outside of California, at least twenty-two (22) calendar days prior to the hearing.
Mail to all parties, attorneys, and the CASA.
Do not send a copy of the report to the caregiver.
For a child or NMD's current caregiver or facility:
At least ten (10) calendar days before the hearing provide:
JV-280 or JV-281;
A summary of the recommendations for disposition and any recommendations for change in custody or status;
JV-290 and JV-290-INFO.
Exceptions/Further Requirements
If the parent's/legal guardian's whereabouts are unknown, send notice by CMRRR to his/her court-designated permanent mailing address and to all possible addresses identified in the Due Diligence Affidavit.
WIC Section 366.26 Hearing
Responsible Parties
For a WIC section 366.26 hearing, notice must be provided by the following individuals to the parties listed in the table below:
When the recommendation is adoption or legal guardianship, the Dependency Investigator (DI) or the case-carrying CSW in a vertical case management section.
When the recommendation is Planned Permanent Living Arrangement (PPLA), the case-carrying CSW.
An alleged father has denied paternity and waived the right to notice of future hearings on form JV-505, Statement Regarding Paternity (Juvenile Dependency)
Child(ren)
When ten (10) years of age or older
Grandparents of the child
If both the following apply:
Their addresses are known; and
The parent's whereabouts are unknown
Attorney(s)
Notice counsel for parent(s) and minor(s) --unless the attorney was present in court when the hearing was scheduled
Any known sibling(s) if that sibling is either the subject of a dependency court proceeding or has been adjudged to be a dependent child of the juvenile court.
The following requirements only apply when the sibling's hearing is calendared on a different day or in a different court than the child's hearing.
If the sibling is ten (10) years of age or older, notice the sibling, the sibling's caregiver, and the sibling's attorney.
If the sibling is under ten (10) years of age, notice the sibling's caregiver and the sibling's attorney.
Child Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)
If applicable
Current caregiver of the child
Caregivers include a foster parent, pre-adoptive parent, relative caregiver, and nonrelative extended family member (NREFM).
Method of Service and Time Frame (WIC Section 366.26 Hearing)
The responsible party is to provide printed (and/or electronic) notice according to the following guidelines:
Type of Notice
JV-300, Notice of Hearing on Selection of a Permanent Plan – Juvenile
JV-310, Proof of Service – Juvenile Hearing Under section 366.26 of the Welfare and Institutions Code Section
Generate in SNAP.
JV-290, Juvenile Council Caregiver Information Form
Generate in SNAP.
Give only to child's current caregiver, if applicable, in his/her primary language.
JV-290 INFO, Juvenile Council Caregiver Information Form
Generate in SNAP.
Give only to child's current caregiver, if applicable, in his/her primary language.
DCFS JV-290 Cover Letter
Give only to child's current caregiver, if applicable, in his/her primary language.
JV-505, Statement Regarding Paternity (Juvenile Dependency), if it is not on file.
Delivery Method and Time Frame for:
Mother(s) and Father(s), all presumed and alleged
If the Department's recommendation is adoption, notice may be by any of the following methods of service:
Court orders parent to return for the WIC section 366.26 hearing and orders notice to the parent by first class mail at the parent's usual place of residence or business only.
Notice must be mailed at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing.
Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested (CMRRR) mailed to parent's last know mailing address.
Must be mailed at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing.
The signed return receipt must be signed by the parent and filed in court for notice to be deemed legally sufficient.
Personal Service (i.e. hand delivery of the notice) at least forty-five (45) calendar days before the hearing.
Substituted Personal Service:
Notice is hand delivered to a competent person at least eighteen (18) years of age at the parent's usual place of residence or business.
Notice must be immediately followed by the mailing of a second notice to the parent by first class mail at the place where the notice was delivered at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing.
If the Department's recommendation is legal guardianship or planned permanent living arrangement, only first class mail sent to the parent's usual place of residence, or electronic notice is needed. However, CSWs may also provide notice using any of the four (4) methods of service listed above under the adoption recommendation section.
Out of state parent
If the Department's recommendation is adoption, legal guardianship, or planned living arrangement, notice may be by any of the following methods:
CMRRR mailed to the parent's usual place of residence or business at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing.
All CMRRR evidence of mailing and any returned receipts must be filed with the Court.
Court orders parent to return to the WIC section 366.26 hearing and orders notice to the parent by first class mail at the parent's usual place of residence or business only, which must be mailed at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing.
Personal service at least forty-five (45) calendar days before the hearing.
Due Diligence Search must be submitted to court at least ninety (90) calendar days before the hearing to obtain a court finding that the due diligence is legally sufficient. Once the court has deemed the due diligence to be legally sufficient, the CSW may then notice as follows:
If the Department's recommendation is adoption, and if the parent has an attorney, notice:
The parent's attorney of record by CMRRR mailed to the parent's attorney at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing (addressed to the parent "in care of" the attorney); and
The grandparents, if their identities are known, by first class mail at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing.
If the Department's recommendation is adoption, and if the parent has no attorney, notice is as follows:
The court shall order service by publication of the notice citation, which must run in a newspaper once a week for four (4) consecutive weeks with the last publication appearing no later than thirty (30) calendar days prior to the WIC section 366.26 hearing, not including the day of the hearing; and
The grandparents, if their identities and addresses are known, by first class mail at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing.
If the Department's recommendation is legal guardianship or planned permanent living arrangement, no further notice to the parent is required. However, notice must be sent to the grandparents, if their identities and addresses are known by first class mail at least 55 calendar days before the hearing.
Whereabouts unknown parent is subsequently found
If the Department's recommendation is adoption and the parent is in California, immediately serve notice by one of the following;
CMRRR mailed to parent's last known mailing address and signed by the parent, at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing. All CMRRR evidence of mailing and any returned receipts must be filed with the Court.
Personal service at least forty-five (45) calendar days before the hearing.
If the Department's recommendation is adoption and the parent is out of state, immediately serve notice by one of the following methods of service:
CMRRR mailed to the parent's usual place of residence or business at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing. All CMRRR evidence of mailing and any returned receipts must be filed with the court.
Personal service at least forty-five (45) calendar days before the hearing.
If the Department's recommendation is legal guardianship or planned permanent living arrangement and the parent is in California, immediately serve by first class mail to the parent's usual place of residence or business at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing.
If the Department's recommendation is legal guardianship or planned permanent living arrangement and the parent is out of state, notice may be provided by any of the following methods:
CMRRR mailed to the parent's usual place of residence or business at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing. All CMRRR evidence of mailing and any returned receipts must be filed with the court.
Personal service at least forty-five (45) calendar days before hearing
Due Diligence Search must be submitted to court at least ninety (90) calendar days before the hearing to obtain a court finding that the due diligence is legally sufficient. Once the court has deemed the due diligence to be legally sufficient, CSW may then notice as follows:
If the Department's recommendation is adoption, the court has the option of ordering publication or ordering no further notice.
If the Department's recommendation is legal guardianship or planned permanent living arrangement, no further notice to the parent is required.
Child ten (10) years or older
Sibling(s) (only if known, is a subject of dependency court, or if sibling's case is calendared on a different day and/or in a different court)
Grandparent(s) (only if whereabouts, identity, and address are known)
All attorneys of record (only if not present in court at time 366.26 hearing date was set)
Current Caregiver
CASA
If the Department's recommendation is adoption, legal guardianship or planned permanent living arrangement, notice must be by first class mail sent to the person's usual place of residence or business at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing.
Exceptions/Further Requirements
Removal orders for incarcerated parents must be issued according to established procedures.
Parties other than the CSW can personally notice parents:
In most counties, the Sheriff's Department performs this service.
Procedures for out-of-county personal service must be adhered to.
Notice must be given to a parent who resides in a country under the Hague Service Convention if all of the following apply:
He/she resides outside the United States; and
He/she has not made a general appearance; and
The recommendation is termination of parental rights (TPR).
If a WIC section 366.26 hearing is continued, regardless of the type of notice required, or the manner in which it is served, once the court has made the initial finding that WIC section 366.26 notice has been properly given to the parent or any entitled person, subsequent notice for any continuation of the hearing may be by:
First Class Mail to any last known address at least fifty-five (55) calendar days before the hearing; or
Per court order
If after the initial WIC section 366.26 hearing, the Department's recommendation for a permanent plan subsequently changes from that contained in the notice previously found to be proper by the court, notice for the new recommendation must be provided to the parent and to any person entitled to receive notice as indicated above.
Contact the trial attorney County Counsel to request a copy of the JV-140 if a copy has not been received within one week of the parent's first court appearance.
Ensure that the address on the JV-140 matches the address on CWS/CMS and is designated as the parent's permanent address (see attached JV-140 SNAP notice guide).
When a parent has moved, but there is no JV-140 with the new address, send the hearing notice to the address designated on the JV-140 and a second notice to where the parent is currently residing.
Advise the parent to notify the court of their change of address by submitting new or updated JV-140 (and/or EFS-005-JV/JV-141) to the court or to seek the assistance of their attorney.
Noticing Parties Electronically
When using SNAP, theelectronicnotices will be sent out automatically.
Attach Proof of Service (POS)/(JV-510) for the electronic notice
Write the date that the court report was mailed out on the POS document
Attach Proofs of Service and any emailed responses from parties to the court report.
Noticing Parties for an Initial Petition/Detention Hearing, Including Ex Parte Application
Make every attempt to notice dependent siblings and their attorneys of the time and place of the hearing.
Search CWS/CMS to locate all dependent siblings and attorneys.
If, due to the hour of the day the child was detained, it is not possible to notice dependent siblings and their attorneys, document in the Detention Report the names, addresses, telephone numbers and the reason(s) why this task was not completed (e.g., child was detained after 10:00 p.m.) so that Intake and Detention Control (IDC) can follow up.
Continue efforts to notice the sibling(s) and attorney(s) on the following business day and submit a DCFS 4216, Last Minute Information for the Court, if necessary.
Document in the Detention Report and in the Court Notebook all parties that have been provided notice of the hearing.
Include the names of the person, his/her relationship to the child, and the date and time that notice was provided.
IDC CSW Responsibilities
Confirm the Detention Hearing date with the parent(s) and/or legal guardian(s).
Read the initial petition to the noticed party.
Complete the Court Report Addendum.
If the parent is in custody in a county incarceration facility, complete the DCFS 4217, Children's Social Worker Report and Order of Court for Removal of Prisoner from County Jail and submit to IDC support staff.
IDC support staff will log and send the log to Juvenile Court Services (JCS) Liaison support staff for processing.
Send the completed DCFS 4217 to the Juvenile Court Services (JCS) clerk as soon as possible but no later than three (3) business days prior to the hearing for processing.
Complete the JV-450, Order for Prisoner's Appearance at Hearing Affecting Prisoner's Parental Rights and Waiver of Appearance, for parties incarcerated in state custody or in other county/city jails outside of Los Angeles County.
Send the completed JV-450 to the JCS Liaison Office in an envelope labeled, "Affidavit and Order for Removal of Prisoner."
If this is an Antelope Valley case, send it to the JCS Liaison Office for the Antelope Valley Court.
If the detaining CSW has not already done so, contact the dependent siblings, their attorneys, and the court appointed special advocate (CASA) and provide oral notice.
Document in the Detention Report and in the Court Notebook that the person(s) have been provided notice of the hearing.
Include the names of the person, his/her relationship to the child, and the date and time that notice was provided.
Noticing Parties for an Initial Petition/Detention Hearing that is Continued
Document the method of notice and the date it was provided to all parties in the Court Notebook and in the court report.
Print the notices, JV-290, if applicable, and proofs of service.
Attach them to the court report with any signed receipts for notices sent by certified mail.
Retain copies in the case file.
Noticing Parties for a WIC Section 364, 366.21, 366.22, 366.25, 366.3 or 366.31 Status Review Hearing
Case-Carrying CSW Responsibilities
Provide notices using the required method of service and time frame, taking note of any exceptions or further requirements, including the JV-290, Caregiver Information Form and Cover Letter, if applicable.
Document the method of notice and date provided for all parties in the Court Notebook and court report.
Print the notices, JV-290, if applicable, and proofs of service.
Manually document the date the court report was mailed next to each party on the JV-510. Stating: "Court report mailed on {insert date}."
Attach them to the court report with any signed receipts for notices sent by certified mail.
Attach them to the court report with any signed receipts for notices sent by certified mail.
For youth fourteen (14) and over, also attach the 90-day Transition Plan, if applicable.
Retain copies in the case file.
Noticing Parties for a WIC Section 366.26 Hearing
DI CSW or Case-Carrying CSW Responsibilities
Provide notices using the required method of service and time frame, taking note of any exceptions or further requirements, including the JV-290, Caregiver Information Form and Cover Letter, if applicable.
California Rules of Court (CROC), Rule 5.708(c) - States that at least 10 calendar days before the hearing, the social worker must file the report and provide copies to the parent or legal guardian and his or her counsel, to counsel for the child, to any CASA volunteer, and , in the case of an Indian child, to the child's identified Indian tribe.
CROC, Rule 5.534(m) – States the requirements for caregiver notices and their right to be heard (WIC sections 290.1–297, 366.21) for cases filed under section 300 et seq.
CROC, Rule 5.900 -- Provides preliminary provisions for nonminor dependents, including the right to appear by telephone.
CROC, Rule 5.903(c) – States the requirements for notices for nonminor dependent status review hearings (224.1(b), 295, 366(f), 366.1, 366.3).
WIC Section 290.1 – Explains the notice requirements when detaining a child.
WIC Section 290.2 – Explains the notice requirement when an initial petition has been filed.
WIC Section 291 – Explains the notice requirement for the Jurisdictional/Dispositional Hearing.
WIC Section 292 – Explains the notice requirements for the WIC section 364 Status Review Hearing.
WIC Section 293 – Explains the notice requirements for the WIC section 366.21, WIC 366.22, and WIC 366.25 Status Review Hearings.
WIC Section 294 – Explains the notice requirements for the selection and implementation hearing held pursuant to section 366.26.
WIC Section 295 – Explains the notice requirements for the review hearings held pursuant to sections 366.3 and 366.31, and for termination of jurisdiction hearings held pursuant to section 391.
WIC Section 349 (d) – States, in part, that if the minor is ten (10) years of age or older and he/she is not present at the hearing, the court will determine whether the minor was properly notified of his/her right to attend the hearing and inquire whether the minor was given an opportunity to attend.
WIC Section 316.1 - States the requirement that the parent(s)/guardian(s) provide a permanent mailing address to the court and; be advised that the address will be used by the court and DCFS and remain unchanged until the parent/guardian provides written notification to DCFS or the court of a new mailing address. The JV-140 or EFS-005-JV/JV-141 form must be used for this purpose.
WIC Section 361.5(e)(2) – States that DCFS will use the prisoner locator system developed by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to facilitate timely and effective notice of hearings for incarcerated parents.
WIC Section 366.05 - Sets forth requirements and time frames for provision of Status Review Supplemental Reports to pertinent parties.
WIC Section 366.21 (c) – States that the JV-290, Judicial Council Caregiver Information Form must be sent to the child's foster parent, relative caregivers, or foster parents approved for adoption, in the caregiver's primary language when available, along with information on how to file the form with the court. This section requires a copy of the court report also be sent.
WIC Section 366.21 (d) – States, in part, that prior to any hearing involving a child in the physical custody of a community care facility or foster family agency that may result in the return of the child to the physical custody of his or her parent/legal guardian, or in adoption or the creation of a legal guardianship, the facility or agency will file with the court a report or a Judicial council Caregiver Information Form (JV 290), containing its recommendation for disposition.
WIC Section 388(e)(3) – States that the court will allow for telephonic appearances by a nonminor former dependent or delinquent for court hearings where he/she declines, elects, or is unable to attend.
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.