Federal laws provide guidance and minimum standards for out-of-home care practice. State laws and policies provide further direction for child welfare agencies. Family and juvenile courts play a key role in out-of-home care practice, as they must approve all removals of children and case plans for children and families.

Enhanced Resource Guidelines: Child Welfare Workers' Companion Guide (PDF - 15,738 KB)
National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (2020)
Assists in building knowledge about hearing practice, promoting effective hearing practices, and enhancing court and child welfare agency collaboration in the child welfare system and cases of domestic violence.