Home > Responding to Child Abuse & Neglect > Intake, Investigation, & Assessment > Working With the Courts in Child Protection > For Attorneys

For Attorneys

Attorneys may represent the children, the parents, or the child welfare agency in court.

Child Welfare Law and Practice: Representing Children, Parents, and State Agencies in Abuse, Neglect, and Dependency Cases
Ventrell & Duquette (2005)
View Abstract
Explains, step by step, the complex court process and the role and duties of attorneys. Includes key Federal and constitutional legislation concerning the relationship among parents, children, and the State.

Interacting With Other Parties
ABA Center on Children and the Law (2004)
How to apply the ethics rules when child welfare lawyers are interacting with parties in the case, specifically parents, children, and caseworkers.

Legal Ethics in Child Welfare Cases
ABA Center on Children and the Law (2004)
View Abstract
How to apply the spirit of the American Bar Association Model Rules of Professional Conduct to provide quality representation for parents, children, and families. Guidelines for guardians ad litem are included.

Standards of Practice for Lawyers Representing Child Welfare Agencies (PDF - 295 KB)
American Bar Association (2004)
Provides definitions and addresses the role of the agency attorney, basic obligations, fulfilling obligations, ethical and practice considerations, and administrative responsibilities.

	Related Information Gateway Topics Systemwide: Courts

Updated on September 18, 2008