Juvenile Law

What is a Guardian Ad Litem?
A guardian ad litem is appointed by a court in order to represent the best interests of the child. Either parent can request that a guardian ad litem be appointed for their child, or the court can appoint a guardian ad litem for the child. While some states require that a guardian ad litem be an attorney, other states’ courts will appoint guardian ad litems who are not … more
Termination of Parental Rights
A legal termination of parental rights differs significantly from simply agreeing to not seek custody and/or visitation with a child. While parents are typically free to choose to live apart from or refrain from visiting with their children, they likely have a legal right to do so if they so choose. On the other hand, a legal termination of parental rights permanently prohibits a … more

Notice of Involuntary Child Custody Proceedings for an Indian Child (Juvenile Court)
This form is used by the court to notify the proper parties that an Indian child is being placed in temporary custody of the county welfare … more
Information for Parents
This pamphlet gives important information for parents regarding the juvenile court system and the procedures that will be followed regarding … more
Juvenile Court - The Dependency Court: How it Works
This pamphlet explains the dependency court of the juvenile court, how it works, what your rights are, and the actions that can take place … more
Juvenile Court - Information for Parents
This pamphlet explains the juvenile court and what happens when your child becomes a ward of the court. (JV-060)

How To Establish a Guardianship of a Minor
A guardian (or guardian ad litem) is appointed for a minor when the parents are not able to care for the minor or are unwilling to do so. A minor’s guardian has full time legal custody and control of the child. A person appointed as a guardian is usually a close family member or other close adult of the minor, or the local child services agency. If you are interested in … more

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