Juvenile Dependency Court in California is the court that hears cases regarding abuse and neglect of children. The Juvenile Dependency Court is charged with the protection of these children and all decisions in the court are made with the well being of the juvenile in mind. Whenever possible, the court will attempt to keep families together, as it is widely acknowledged that children are happiest when they are with their true families. It is usually only in circumstances where safety is a concern that the Juvenile Dependency Court will separate a family.
In California, the Juvenile Dependency Court process usually begins with a report to social services about the safety of a child. A social worker will have to investigate the claim, and give their opinion to the court if the child is in any type of danger. If the social worker finds that the child:
- Wasn’t well taken care of or watched over;
- Was neglected, abused, or molested; or
- Was left with someone who didn’t take good care of them.
They may be placed into a shelter or foster care facility. In some instances, the child can also be sent to the other parents home or to live with a family member. This is usually up to the social worker in charge of the case and the court.
If the social worker has determined that neglect exists and they decide to remove the child from their home, they have 2 days to file a petition with the court that the child become a “dependent of the court”. If the child isn’t taken away, the social worker has more time to file.
Juvenile Dependency Court proceedings are extremely important, affecting every part of your child’s and your own future. With Wallin & Klarich on your side, you can rest assured that your skilled San Diego family law attorney is working hard to get the best possible outcome for you and your family. We have more than 30 years of experience in divorce, child custody and juvenile dependency family law matters. And with offices located from San Diego to Ventura to the Inland Empire, we’re able to be there for you, wherever you happen to be. For a consultation, call us today at 1-888-749-7428.
Source article:http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp/family/juv/
