Foster Parents and Caregivers
Foster Parents and Caregivers
Foster parents have the right to be heard in juvenile court review hearings under Neb. Rev. Stat. 43-1314. Specifically, "[t]he court shall inquire into the well-being of the foster child by asking questions, if present at the hearing, of any willing foster parent, preadoptive parent, or relative providing care for the child." Foster parents and caregivers are also entitled to notice of proceedings.
The Caregiver Information Form is one way for foster parents make their voice heard by the judge. Each year, the Through the Eyes of the Child Initiative sends a letter to every foster parent and caregiver letting them know of the form and how to submit it to the court.
The Court Improvement Project also developed a Guide for Foster Parents. This guide educates foster parents about the juvenile court process and their rights in the proceedings. Copies of the Guide for Foster Parents can be ordered here.