The most important thing we do is to ensure the children we serve are getting all their needs met!  We do this in our everyday interactions with the families, as well as through the legal system.  Below are tips which can assist in collaborating with legal services.

Documentation is critical!  The policy is to ensure every event in a case, an email, referral, letter, attempted phone call, meeting, text etc. is documented in FSFN within 48 hours of the event.  The longer the lapse in time between an event and documenting it, the less likely the details will be accurate.  Don’t rely on your memory!  Presentation is everything so ensuring documentation is concise, clear, has proper grammar and is free of typos is important.  At times we cut and paste from one document to the next and we forget to change names, expiration dates, etc. 

Open lines of communication are crucial. If an issue arises, we must immediately communicate the concern, provide evidentiary proof it is a concern, and work with Children’s Legal Services (CLS) to find a positive resolution. If we can’t resolve an issue quickly it is important to follow the chain of command to get a timely resolution.

CLS is guided by two critical principles.

• Use of Common Sense – Is what we are trying to achieve making sense?
• A Sense of Urgency – If a change is needed, do not wait until the next scheduled hearing – but proactively request a hearing or staffing sooner to ensure the needed change is facilitated.

When communicating with CLS, GAL, parents, co-workers, providers, or others involved with the children we serve:

• Don’t Take it Personally
• Don’t Make Assumptions
• Be Impeccable with Your Word (Do What You Say)
• Always Do Your Best—Focus on Children’s Best Interests

Effective communication with CLS is vital.

• Understand that an attorney’s perspective is different
• Attorneys are part of the team to keep children safe
• Personality issues can prevent the flow of information
• Address communication barriers quickly and professionally

All of us working together as a team with open lines of communication and more diligence in our documentation will lead to more timely permanence for the children we serve!