NCJ Number
124212
Editor(s)
D D Moosekian
Date Published
1990
Length
204 pages
Annotation
This chapter from the California Welfare and Institutions Code, known as the Arnold-Kennick Juvenile Court Law, mandates procedures for processing dependents and wards of the juvenile court.
Abstract
"Dependents" of the juvenile court are any minors who have been abused or neglected by parents or guardians, have been given up for adoption, cannot be properly supported by parents or guardians, or are at high risk of being harmed within the family. "Wards" of the court are any persons under 18 years old who are beyond parental control or have violated any local, State, or Federal law. The general goal of this chapter is to "provide for the protection and safety of the public and each minor under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court and to preserve and strengthen the minor's family ties whenever possible, removing the minor from the custody of his or her parents only when necessary for his or her welfare or for the safety and protection of the public." Juvenile court procedures are mandated for the processing of both dependents and wards. Provisions also address court dispositions and the management of various types of cases. The Interstate Compact on Juveniles is included.