Family Values: How Children's Lawyers Can Help Their Clients by Advocating for Parents

Abstract:     
In this Article, the authors observe that children's lawyers too often view themselves as standing in opposition to parents in dependency proceedings. They argue that child advocates do a disservice to their clients by not using their considerable skills, role advantages, and moral authority to actively help parents. Noting that areas of common ground far exceed those places where the children's bar and the parents' bar might part company, the authors contend that children's lawyers have an obligation to actively fight for parents' rights. In particular, spending time early in a case to ensure that appropriate reunification services are being offered is well worth the investment, as it redounds to the benefit of all parties. The authors offer several concrete practice tips for how children's lawyers can better serve their clients by regularly advocating for parents.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 20

Accepted Paper Series