Timely permanency improves outcomes for children and families. Efficient completion of relative and kin certification and a permanent plan of legal guardianship may allow for the achievement of more timely permanency for children in the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) custody. DCFS has updated its relative/kin certification policy. For example, the Home Development Unit has 45 days from the date of the signed application to certify relatives/kin applicants.
Legal guardianship may be a viable permanent plan for children in Louisiana depending on the facts and circumstances of the case. Yet, there is often confusion about the differences between custody and guardianship.
Come learn about these policy changes and the law, definitions, and analysis of guardianship.
Speakers:
Sarah Desselles, LCSW, State Home Development and Therapeutic Foster Care Manager, Department of Children and Family Services
Franchesca L. Hamilton-Acker, CINC Unit Leader – Senior Attorney, Acadiana Legal Service Corporation
LaTrese LeCour, M.S., State Foster Care Program Manager, Department of Children and Family Services
Objectives:
- Learn about the changes to DCFS policy on kin and relative certification.
- Understand the differences between custody and guardianship.
