Dependency Court offered by King County Superior Court at Family Court Services in Kent
Dependency Court offered by King County Superior Court at Family Court Services in Kent
A judge or commissioner decides whether it is safe for the child to remain in the home or whether the child should be placed in out-of-home care. The focus of the 72-hour shelter care hearing is to protect the child and offer ways for the parent to address the issues that led to the state's involvement. At this time, the court also decides an appropriate visitation schedule for children and parents, a service plan for the parents, and whether there is a need for medical, mental health or substance abuse evaluations and treatment for the parents.
Location
401 4th Avenue North, Kent, WA 98032
Hours
M-F, 8:30am-noon 1-4:30pm
Application process
A dependency action begins when a petition (a written request) is filed in Superior Court. This petition must allege that the child is "dependent. "
Eligibility
Youth under age 18 with a safety issue in the family home such as: - Has been abandoned by his or her parent, guardian, or other custodian OR - Has been abused or neglected by a person legally responsible for his or her care OR - Has no parent, guardian, or custodian capable of providing adequate care
Fee
None for youth. Parents may qualify for a public defender.
Languages
Interpreter services
Agency info
King County Superior Court's Family Court Services
Provides mediation, domestic violence assessment and evaluation services to divorcing or separating families for the purpose of developing plans to serve the children's best interest. Also facilitates independent adoptions. Provides case management for complex and high risk cases through Unified Family Court.