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Module 3: Shelter Care

When a child has been removed from their home due to allegations of abuse and/or neglect, state law requires that, within 72 hours, a Shelter Care Hearing be held to determine whether it is necessary for the child to remain outside of their home. This module provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the Shelter Care process in Washington State. Shelter Care Hearings are a crucial component of the dependency court process that helps protect the safety of children while also ensuring that children are not unnecessarily removed from their home. 

Learning Objectives:

  1. Understand the purpose and procedures of Shelter Care Hearings.
  2. Understand what information needs to be included in Dependency Petitions.
  3. Understand the decisions made at Shelter Care Hearings and the legal standards that apply in decision making.
  4. Understand the required inquires and findings involved in child removal, placement and family time visitation decisions at the Shelter Care Hearing.
 

Estimated Length: 60 minutes

Continuing Education Credits: This course has been approved for one (1.0) general Continuing Judicial Education (CJE) credit. Please follow the instructions at the conclusion of the course to receive credit.

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