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The ABCs of Juvenile Court
Trisha McCulloch • December 3, 2020
Finding your family in juvenile court for an abuse and neglect case can be very scary, stressful, and intimidating. There are many nuisances, acronyms, procedural differences, and important timelines that are thrown at you during a time when your main priority is getting your child back as soon as possible. In order to help you through this difficult process, this article explains the important acronyms and terms that you might hear during a juvenile case.
AC (Alternative Care). Licensed or court-ordered placements outside of the family home.
Adjudication. At this hearing, the parents may either admit that the allegations in the petition are true or deny they are true. If the parents deny they are true, a contested hearing will be scheduled. If the court, after a contested hearing, does not take jurisdiction, then all proceedings are dismissed and no further court involvement will occur.
APPLA (Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement). A Permanency Goal for a child that is 16 years or older. This option is an appropriate case goal when there is a specific long-term placement for a child and when it has been documented to the court that compelling reasons exist which make other permanency options unacceptable.
ASFA (Adoption and Safe Families Act). Federal law passed by Congress on behalf of children in foster care. This act provides time frames for child welfare agencies and courts to move a child through the foster care system so the child will not be living in foster care indefinitely. ASFA states that a petition for TPR (termination of parental rights) must be filed if a child has been in out-of-home care for 15 of the most recent 22 months, or a child is an abandoned infant. There are exceptions to this timeline that should be noted. A TPR does not need to be filed if the child is in the care of relatives, CD (Children’s Division) has a documented compelling reason why TPR is not in the best interest of the child, or CD has failed to provide reasonable efforts to the family.
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate). A trained volunteer appointed by the judge who advocates for the child. The CASA will provide a written recommendation to the Judge at each hearing. Not all cases have a CASA assigned. Typically, the FST (Family Support Team) will determine whether a CASA is appropriate and will make a request to the judge for one to be appointed. The CASA is assigned to a case and continues to serve as CASA until the case is finalized.
Case Review. Once the dispositional hearing is held, case review hearings are held periodically until the child is reunited with the parents or jurisdiction is terminated by achieving another case goal (guardianship, adoption, etc.). These hearings can be held every 30, 60, or 90 days depending on the progress made on the court ordered service plans.
CD (Children’s Division).
The state agency who takes legal and physical custody of a child when a child enters alternative care. It is possible that a Contracted Agency takes legal and physical custody of a child rather than Children’s Division. A case manager is assigned and is responsible for or overseeing the case involving the child. The case manager ensures the child is in an appropriate placement, as well as helping parents find services to complete their written service plans.
Disposition. If the court does take jurisdiction of the child at the time of adjudication, the court will set a disposition hearing. At this hearing, the Case Manager will recommend a Written Service Plan. All services necessary to achieve reunification of the child will be listed in the service plan. If the FST agrees to the services, the Court will order it be completed. If everyone cannot agree, a contested disposition hearing will be held.
DJO (Deputy Juvenile Officer). The Juvenile Office staff assigned to a case involving a juvenile in the legal custody of CD. This individual represents the Juvenile Office in most court hearings and at FST meetings. The DJO is represented by the juvenile attorney, and at court hearings, both the DJO and the attorney for the Juvenile Office are present.
DMH (Department of Mental Health). A department within the Missouri government which provides mental health services to an individual in need of services.
DSS (Department of Social Services). A department within the Missouri government which oversees multiple agencies responsible for providing other services to its citizens, including CD, DMH and DYS (Division of Youth Services).
ER (Extreme Recruitment). An agency that works with the FST when a TPR has occurred and the child does not have an adoptive placement and all other options have been exhausted to find an adoptive placement for the child. This agency will meet frequently with the FST to update as to their progress in their extensive and tireless search for relatives, kinship options and traditional adoptive resources to ensure the child is able to achieve permanency through adoption.
FCS (Family Centered Services). Services provided by CD to families.
FSD (Family Support Division). A division within DSS responsible for Income Maintenance and family support services.
FST (Family Support Team). This team consists of the parents, parents’ attorneys, the child if over the age of 14, the Case Manager, the foster or relative placement provider, the GAL (Guardian ad Litem), the DJO, the CASA volunteer and any other family members or friends that the parents can rely on to assist and provide support. The FST meets regularly to determine services and treatment needs, to develop a plan for reunification or other permanency options, to determine appropriate placement of the child, to evaluate case progress and make changes as needed to the case plan.
GAL (Guardian ad Litem). The attorney appointed by the court to represent and protect the best interests of a child in the legal custody of Children’s Division. If a CASA is appointed, the GAL and the CASA work closely to ensure they both are kept apprised of the case to help determine the appropriate case goal for the child. The GAL attends court hearings, team meetings, and makes recommendations to the court regarding the best interest of the child.
ICPC (Interstate Compact for Placement of Children). In the event placement with an out-of-state relative or kinship provider is recommended by the FST and appropriate for the child, the provider has to go through the ICPC process to ensure that all of the same requirements are being met in the other state and that the child is still being properly monitored in that state. This process is very lengthy and time consuming. If the ICPC is approved, the child and the placement provider will have a case manager in both states and the case managers will communicate frequently so that the FST in the original state is kept up to date on the child.
ILA (Independent Living Arrangement).
A child or young adult (under 21) living on his/her own under supervision. The individual’s custody may or may not be assigned to CD.
ILP (Independent Living Program).
Helps a child or young adult (between 15 and 21) who has been in out-of-home placement to become self-sufficient in the community and learn to live independently.
Permanency Hearing. This hearing must be held within 12 months of the child entering foster care. This hearing determines the permanency plan for the child and if CD has made reasonable efforts to finalize the permanency plan. This hearing is held annually.
Permanency Review Hearing.
This hearing may be heard as often as necessary after each Permanency Hearing, but must be held at least every six months during the period of time the child remains in care after the initial Permanency Hearing. The purpose of these hearings is to ensure the case goal is the most appropriate option for the child.
PPRT (Permanency Planning Review Team Meeting).
The administrative process conducted for the purpose of objectively determining the continued appropriateness of a child’s placement, a child’s progress in care toward the short- and long-range goals, and the need for continued care. The FST is invited to these meetings and a third party reviewer to ensure the meeting is objectively held. The third party is allowed to ask questions during the meeting and offer any insight that might have not been provided by the FST.
TDM (Team Decision Making Meeting). A facilitated meeting to determine if a child needs to move to a new home (or other change in placement) to ensure the safety of the child and/or stability. The meeting includes a diverse group of people who seek to make a recommendation based on information shared during the TDM by all participants. Parents and their attorneys are invited to these meetings and encouraged to attend to give their input on the next placement for the child.
TPR (Termination of Parental Rights). The ending of all legal ties of a parent to his/her child. This is one of the case goals available to the FST once it is believed that the parents are not going to be able to achieve reunification in a timely manner.
WSP (Written Service Plan). A document developed by CD, the parents and the FST that lists goals and tasks to be completed for reunification of the child with the parent(s).
If you are interested in learning more about abuse and neglect juvenile cases, please contact the firm today to schedule a time to talk to one of our experienced attorneys.
The Center for Family Law is excited to announce the start of its fourth year hosting the Second Saturday Divorce Workshops, providing valuable support and guidance to individuals navigating the divorce process.
The holiday season can be a balancing act for all parents, but it can be especially challenging for divorced parents who need to coordinate plans with a former spouse and navigate interactions with new partners. While some stress is to be expected, with careful planning, flexibility, and the right mindset, you can make the holidays smoother for everyone. Here are a few tips to help you manage. Prioritizing the Children. The holidays are a time for children, and their well-being should be the focus of the schedule. Whether it's your first holiday post-divorce or you have had a few years to adjust, there are simple steps you can take to make the season easier for them. Create a Joint Plan. Collaborate with your ex to ensure the children can spend time with both of you without feeling torn. A clear, shared plan helps avoid confusion and conflict. This might involve splitting the day between both households or longer periods of time with each parent to allow for out-of-town travel to visit relatives. It is important that parents are on the same page on what schedule will be followed and that is communicated to the children as a joint plan. Balance Traditions with Flexibility. It is natural to want to keep cherished family traditions, but flexibility is key. Discuss with your co-parent which traditions are most important and find a realistic way to divide them. This ensures that the kids do not feel pressured to choose between one tradition or family, allowing them to enjoy special moments with both sides. Create New Traditions. This is an opportunity to start fresh. Let go of old expectations and focus on what will bring joy to your current family setup. Whether changing when your holiday meal occurs or coming up with new ways to celebrate with those who matter now, these changes can redefine your holiday experience in a way that reflects your family as it is today. Remember, children care more about spending time with you and celebrating together than about the exact day. [The Right] Communication is Key. Keeping communication focused on the kids can help prevent old conflicts from resurfacing. Keep discussions brief and to the point. Set times to address important matters and confirm plans through a message or email to ensure everyone is aligned and to prevent miscommunication. Involving New Partners. Whether it is you or your ex with a new partner, you should be mindful of how this change can stir emotions and make the situation feel uncertain. If planning to include a new partner in holiday activities, having a conversation with your ex beforehand is best. Discuss your plans for the day and make sure your ex is comfortable with the arrangement. If you are nervous about being around your ex’s new partner, remember that you have the right to decide how much or how little to engage with this new person, all while keeping things positive and calm for the children. Children may also need time to adjust to a new partner, particularly if the relationship is still fresh. Monitor how they are coping and give them space to process these changes. Do not force interactions, and if possible, let the relationship evolve naturally. Spending Time with Former In-Laws. Another challenge during the holidays for separated parents is dealing with ex-in-laws. Seeing them may feel awkward, but it is often necessary for the children's sake. If spending time with your ex-in-laws feels too emotionally challenging, be honest with yourself and them. It is okay to politely decline an invitation if it being there would cause too much stress. Regardless of how you feel about your ex-in-laws, remember that ex-in laws are still important figures in your children’s lives, and it is often best for the kids if you maintain a relationship with them. Encourage your children to spend time with their grandparents or other relatives from your ex’s family when possible. Remember even when feeling frustrated, remind yourself that cooperation between parents benefits the children, making these moments more manageable.
(This article was originally posted in November 2024 by Courtney Green on the website of The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis and can be found here .) Every year, a heartwarming and competitive event takes place that not only tests participants’ knowledge but also makes a significant impact in the lives of children affected by the criminal justice system. The annual Motion for Kids Trivia Night hosted by BAMSL’s Young Lawyers Division, has become a beloved tradition, blending fun with philanthropy to raise funds for the Saint Louis Bar Foundation’s Motion for Kids holiday event aimed at providing a magical holiday experience for children in the Metropolitan St. Louis area, most of whom are currently in foster care. A Night of Fun and Philanthropy The 2024 trivia night will be held at the Parkway United Church of Christ and draws participants from the St. Louis legal community, along with friends, family, and colleagues to compete in a lively atmosphere filled with friendly competition. The trivia night is made possible by sponsors in the legal community who play a vital role, providing financial backing and in-kind donations that help cover costs and enhance the evening’s festivities. Additionally, gracious volunteers and members of the Young Lawyers’ Division donate their time to help organize the event and ensure its success. Adding in a twist each year, the trivia night themes have ranged from the 90’s to “The Eras tour”. This years’ theme is a spooky, legal-adjacent: “Whodunnit? Beyond a Reasonable Doubt.” As the trivia rounds unfold, teams will battle it out to compete for bragging rights (and potential prizes). The questions are crafted to be both challenging and entertaining, ensuring that everyone, from trivia novices to seasoned experts, can contribute. Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffle, & Games Galore One of the highlights of the evening is the silent auction, featuring an array of enticing items donated by generous St. Louis based businesses, community members, and local firms. Ranging from gift certificates to tickets for local sporting events, attendees can bet big on items, knowing that every item raised will directly benefit the Motion for Kids holiday event. The auction not only raises vital funds but also showcases the community’s creativity and generosity. Additionally, there are other opportunities to show support for the Motion for Kids event at the trivia night, including a 50/50 raffle, and mini-games in-between rounds, which are sure to stir up excitement. The proceeds raised from these games will also be given directly to Motion for Kids. Impact on Children’s Lives The funds raised during trivia night play a crucial role in making the annual holiday party a reality. The Motion for Kids event provides a joyful experience for children who often face significant challenges in their young lives. For many of these children, the holiday party is one of the few occasions where they can experience the warmth of community, receive gifts, and enjoy festive activities in a safe and welcoming environment. BAMSL volunteers work tirelessly to create a magical atmosphere, complete with decorations, games, and a visit with Santa Claus. The smiles on the children’s faces during the party serve as a reminder of the positive impact the community can make when it comes together for a common cause. A Community Effort The Young Lawyers’ Division Trivia Night is more than just a fundraising event; it’s a testament to the power of community. Local firms, businesses, individuals, and organizations come together to ensure that children impacted by the criminal justice system feel loved and supported during the holiday season. The success of this event highlights how collective efforts can bring joy and hope to those who need it most. It is the Young Lawyers’ Division goal to not only raise money for the Motion for Kids holiday event, but to encourage a sense of accomplishment and commitment from trivia night attendees for the role they have played in the lives of these children. Trivia Night has become a cherished tradition, one that reinforces the message that together, we can create a brighter future for our most vulnerable children.
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