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
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
