In cases where a child’s safety is at risk and a petition has been filed with the Sacramento County Juvenile Court, judges rely upon the Court Services Bureau to help provide the information they need to determine the child’s best interests. Social workers from Court Services investigate situations which have been filed with the Court. The social worker gathers information about the parents, family, child, and home. Based upon the results of the investigation, the worker prepares a report to be presented to the Court. The report must include recommendations about child placement during the time that the child is a dependent of the Court.
In addition, the social worker assists the family in developing a case plan to be presented to the Court. This is a plan of action to improve the situation that led up to Court involvement in the child's life. The case plan may include:
- Parenting classes
- Individual counseling
- Family counseling
- Treatment for abuse of alcohol and other drugs
- Special programs or classes
- Visitation
The Court may adopt the case plan in part or in whole. A social worker will assist the family in obtaining the services that the Court determines are necessary. The Court may allow the child to return to the home with the support of services provided under the case plan. If not, the child may be placed with another relative, or in a foster or shelter home.
Approximately 120 employees staff the Court Services Bureau, including social workers, administrators, and clerical personnel.
Author: CS staff
