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Probation
Safeguards and Support
Summary of Significant Changes in Requirements for Reunification Services | Concurrent Planning | Permanency | Independent Living Plan
Adjudicated wards of juvenile court who are placed out of their homes in foster care, relative placements or group care are guaranteed the same services and safeguards as minors adjudicated as dependents. SB 933, AB 1575 and AB 1696 made changes to the Welfare and Institutions Code [link 5] that codified federal law and protections for California wards.
Summary of Significant Changes in Requirements for Reunification Services top
Juvenile justice has focused on the rehabilitation of the ward. While probation departments and officers have long recognized the importance of families to their intervention with youth, recent changes in the law recognize and support the involvement of families. The change is embodied in the requirement to provide services to parents and families as well as imposing sanctions to youth. Reunification services
- build on family strength
- address issues of concern to provide for the youth's safe return
- provide for up to 12 months of service
- must include concurrent planning
Concurrent Planning top
When the goal is family reunification, a concurrent plan must be devised and actively pursued to provide for the youth's permanency in the event that the youth cannot safely return home. Concurrent plans may include
- adoption
- legal guardianship
- emancipation
- safe and stable placement
- discharge of the youth from probation to the home of a fit and willing relative
Permanency top
When the youth is unable to safely return home after 12 months, reunification services are terminated. The focus shifts to achieving and maintaining permanence. As the youth ages, the focus is on preparation for emancipation and transition to adult living.
Independent Living Plan top
All youth age 16 and over are required to have an independent living plan. The plan is the responsibility of the probation officer although services may be provided by the county independent living program or the placement.
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