[straightblues]

I am trying to do a Fostadopt of 3 siblings in Los Angeles county. My social worker who is supervisor is inept. She were ordered to place an add in the newpaper to establish paternity the first week of August and we are now in October and they still haven't posted it. Everytime I say something to her, she tells me to settle down or they will remove the children from my home. If DSFS would have done their job, I would already be adpoting these children. I have already been approved as an adoptive family.

I need to know my rights before I start up the ladder at the social services agency. My worker is very small minded and I am afraid she will remove the children even thought they are doing great if I do anything to anger her. Does anyone have any advice for me? Should I work through an attorney?

[LisaCA]

hi,

Sorry, but I have no advice for you about your situation, but you might want to post this also on the foster care and adoption boards. this particular one gets less traffic.

good luck!

Lisa

[skootinalong2]

I have some questions.

How long have the children been in your home?
If longer than 6 mos., file for De Facto Parent Status. This will enable you to read the report that the SW files with the court and also gives you the right to hire and atty. to represent you if you chose to fight for these children.

Who is the children's atty? (In CA is is someone from the DA's office) This person is supposed to represent the children and act on their behalf.
Contact that person. Find out where they stand on this and get their support.

Do you have a Foster Parent Advocate in your county?
This is someone who helps and advises foster parents
in situations like this and if there are any alligations etc...

Do you have a Foster Parent Support Group in your area?
Good place to get some input.

Have you connected with any other SW that you might be able to get some advice from?

You can also contact the State Foster Parent Association for advise. There is a state Foster Parent handbook. I think it is online. You might be able to copy it or download it. Not sure. I know you can buy one. This outlines your rights etc.......

Good Luck.

Teralyn

[volunteer93]

Deffinately contact the children's attorney. Also contact the social worker's supervisor.ASAP. Be sure to DOCUMENT everything, time and date of phone calls, who you spoke to, what was discussed, cover your backside! I am raising a big stink here in Fresno and it is costing me $5,000 in legal fees, but it is for the kid's benefit. Contact me later for more information about policies and procedures, laws and case law that can be used in your favor. This is out right incompetence and could possibly be considered Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress, which is a crime.