Understanding Child Welfare and the Courts

Families involved with the child welfare system often engage with the judicial system. This factsheet provides general information about the legal process and informs families of their rights and responsibilities. It includes information about the different stages of court proceedings, how parents and family members can prepare for court hearings, and who and what to expect in the courtroom and throughout the various court processes. 

This publication is also available in Spanish.

This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare Information Gateway.