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Guardian Ad Litem Program. Introducing the Law, the Child Protection System and the Courts. Federal Child Abuse & Neglect Laws. 1974 CAPTA 1978 ICWA 1997 ASFA. 1974-CAPTA. Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act Required states to have child abuse reporting laws Maintain confidentiality
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Guardian Ad Litem Program Introducing the Law, the Child Protection System and the Courts
Federal Child Abuse & Neglect Laws • 1974 CAPTA • 1978 ICWA • 1997 ASFA
1974-CAPTA • Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act • Required states to have child abuse reporting laws • Maintain confidentiality • Provide a Guardian Ad Litem to every child • Agency must be responsible for investigating and receiving reports of child abuse
1978 ICWA • Indian Child Welfare Act • Recognizes that Indian Children have special sovereign rights within the United States • ICWA takes precedence over Federal and State Laws
1997 ASFA • Adoptions and Safe Families Act • Child's safety is paramount concern • Permanency planning should begin at the onset of the case • Created judicial review/time lines • Created reasonable efforts findings • Created aggravated circumstances findings
Third and Fourth Judicial Districtan overview • Serve 10 counties • Work in Magistrate court • Work in civil court • Proceedings are closed • Use prosecutors and public defenders
Tips for Court Days • Plan Ahead-arrange to be in court for at least an hour, come 15 minutes early • Dress Appropriately • Be prepared-know your case • Check in with CASA Staff to let them know you are there • Be mindful of others-in the hall and in the courts room- discuss cases quietly • Remember to rise when the Judge enters or leaves the court room.
Prosecutor/Attorney General Public Defender GAL Attorney Child Attorney Social worker Parents Guardian Ad Litem/GAL Program REMEMBER: You may only discuss case information with the parties of the case. Parties to the Case
Review Power Point Review Mary Ellen's Story Review Principles that Guide Child Abuse Don t Forget to Schedule your Session and court observation time!!!! Chapter Review- for Debrief session