Most experienced foster parents will tell you to attend all court hearings, you will learn a lot about the family and child at these hearings because the case is openly discussed in the court room.

Don’t let a worker or GAL discourage you from going. If the courtroom is open, it is your right to attend.

• View these court proceeding flow charts and notes http://www.fosteringforwardmi.org/foster-parent-toolbox.html

• Know the foster parents bill of rights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAS3MVpXeB4 or http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2013-2014/billengrossed/House/htm/2013-HEBH-4649.htm

Always attend Family Team Meetings if allowed and appropriate: http://www.mfia.state.mi.us/OLMWEB/EX/FO/Public/FOM/722-06B.pdf

Know and contact the child’s GAL (Guardian Ad Litem) and insist that they visit the child at least quarterly –
- Send a letter of introduction
- Keep the GAL updated of any important information
GAL Requirements http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(ry0wnkjxzjz2ybascgcj4taw))/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectName=mcl-712A-17d

Give your input in writing every quarter for the Updated Service Plan If you are not receiving it, ask for the following items from the agency in writing:
• ISP and USPs, court reports
• All court orders
•Medical Passport
• Copies of all medical, educational and mental health reports

Advocating for your family and for the children in your care is essential. The “system” does not go out of its way to provide benefits, services or information to foster parents. Many new parents are afraid to advocate for resolution to ongoing problems but allowing issues to go unresolved can lead to burnout and compromised care for children placed within your home.
 
You will be a more successful foster parent if you build relationships with other parties
 

• Birth Parents – A working relationship with the birthparents is invaluable!
• Workers - Keep a list of all the workers that come to your home along with contact numbers. 
• LGALs – The child’s court appointed lawyer will play an important role in the court room.  Know and contact your child’s GAL. Sample letter of introduction: http://oca.georgia.gov/sites/oca.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/Letter%20of             %20Introduction.pdf
• Other members of the team and community – Schools, therapists, other foster parents

 
Document, document, document! Writing down major events and contacts may be important as the case progresses and can protect your family in case of an investigation.
 
Problem solve, find solutions – If there is a problem, offer a possible solution instead of a complaint.
 
Ask questions – Don’t be afraid to ask your worker, your GAL or the birth parents questions. You need information to do your job as a foster parent.