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F
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YOUTH
YOUTH
RIGHTS
RIGHTS
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OOK
OOK
1
Who Created this Handbook?
This Foster Youth Rights Handbook was made possible
through the collaboration of the Los Angeles County
Board of Supervisors, Los Angeles County Commission for
Children and Families, Los Angeles County Department
of Children and Family Services, California Office of the
Foster Care Ombudsperson, and many stakeholders across
California. We believe that empowering foster youth with
information about their rights and services will create safer
and more secure futures for foster youth in Los Angeles
County and across the state of California.
2
How To Use This Handbook
In this handbook, we will answer questions about your rights while you are in foster
care. The answers to these questions come from a law called the California Foster
Youth Bill of Rights and are written in a way that is easy to understand.
EVERYTHING IN THIS HANDBOOK IS THE LAW!
The questions and answers are divided into different sections. At the beginning of
each question, you will see symbols to help you know the section. Turn the page to
start finding answers to your questions about your rights.
The legal language for your rights begins on page 48.
Personal Rights
Family Connections
Sexual Orientation &
Gender Identity
Education
Who to Call About
My Rights
Preparing for Adulthood
& Money Management
Case Plan
Child & Family Team
Health
Sexual &
Reproductive Health
Mental Health
Court
ICWA Youth*
* ICWA stands for the Indian Child Welfare Act.
If you think your rights have been violated, you should contact:
Your social worker/probation officer
Your lawyer
California Foster Care Ombudsperson: 1-877-846-1602
LA County DCFS Ombudsperson: 1-888-445-1234
LA County Probation Ombudsperson: 1-877-822-3222
If there are words you
do not understand,
you can look at the
definitions in the end
of this handbook.
3
Table of Contents
How To Use This Handbook 2
What Is Foster Care? 4
Questions & Answers About Your Rights in Foster Care 5-41
Personal Rights 5-10
Connections with Family & Friends 11-15
Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity 16-18
Health 19-26
19-21
General Health
Mental Health
22-23
Sexual and Reproductive Health 24-26
Education 27-29
30-31
Preparing for Adulthood & Money Management
Court 32-35
Case Plan 36-37
Child & Family Team 38-39
Who to Call About My Rights 40-41
42-47
Definitions
48-53
WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
54
Important Contacts
Medication Communication Form (JV-218)
55-57
Questions/Notes
58-61
Signature Page
62
4
Why We Created this Handbook
Hello,
As you enter foster care, you might be feeling confused and upset,
and maybe nothing makes sense right now. This handbook is meant
to help you understand what’s happening and to make sure that you
know your rights while you are in foster care. If there are words or
terms that you don’t understand you can look up the definitions at
the end of the handbook.
What is the Child Welfare System?
The Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family
Services (DCFS) and Probation Department are responsible for
ensuring the safety and well-being of youth in foster care in
Los Angeles County. To do so, DCFS investigates reports of child
abuse and neglect. If they determine that abuse or neglect has
occurred, a social worker will work with the youth and their family
to create a case plan, identify the services that are needed to stop the
abuse or neglect, and prevent it from happening again. Many times,
the youth and their family will receive services while the youth is living
at home, but when there are concerns about the youth’s safety, they
may need to be removed from the home and placed in foster care. If a
youth has to be removed from their home, the goal is to help the family
“reunify” or get back together as soon as possible.
When a youth is accused of committing a crime, they have contact with
the juvenile justice system, which includes the delinquency court and Probation
Department. The judge may order the youth into foster care while receiving rehabilitation
services (services to improve their behavior). When that happens, the youth’s probation officer
is responsible for working with the youth and their family to ensure that the youth is placed
in a safe and healthy foster home or treatment program and that they receive all the services
needed so the family can get back together.
What is Foster Care?
Foster care is where youth live while their parents are working on fixing safety
concerns. Youth in foster care have a social worker/probation officer that will help
find them a safe home either with a relative, a resource family (foster parent), or, if
needed, a Short Term Residential Therapeutic Program (STRTP). Where youth live
while in foster care is sometimes called a placement. The people youth live with are
responsible for taking care of them and making sure their rights are not violated. Youth
in foster care also have a lawyer who is there to tell the judge and others what they
want and need to be healthy and safe.
5
Questions & Answers About My Personal Rights
Are the rights included in this handbook my only rights?
No. Youth in foster care have many more rights than the ones discussed in this handbook.
To find out about other rights you may have, please call the Oce of the Foster Care
Ombudsperson at 1-877-846-1602.
How often will I meet with my social worker/probation ocer?
Your social worker/probation ocer has to meet with you at least once a month. Meetings
with them must be held in private (away from your caregiver), and you can ask to meet away
from your foster home sometimes.
How can I contact my social worker/
probation ocer and lawyer?
Your social worker/probation ocer and caregiver have to give you
the names and contact information for the following people:
• your social worker/probation ocer (PO),
• lawyer (sometimes called attorney),
• service providers,
• foster youth advocates and supporters,
• Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs),
• Education Rights Holder,
• Tribe (if you have one), and
• the State Foster Care Ombudsperson.
You have the right to talk to or write to any of them in private and to
tell them about any concerns that you have in your placement.
CHECK OUT
PAGE  FOR
IMPORTANT
CONTACT
INFO
My social worker/PO's name is
My attorney’s name is
and their phone number is
and their phone number is
Personal Rights
6
Questions & Answers About My Personal Rights
Where will I live?
You have the right to be placed in the least restrictive (most family-like) home possible
regardless of your age, physical health, mental health, sexual orientation, gender identity and
expression, court records, or status as a pregnant or parenting youth, unless a judge says that
you should live somewhere else.
If you need certain types of help and support to heal, you may live for a short period of time in a
Short Term Residential Treatment Program (STRTP). The goal is to get you the help you need to
return to living with relatives or in a foster home.
If you are in juvenile hall, your social worker/probation ocer has to find a home for you when
it is time for you to be released. You cannot be kept in juvenile hall just because they cannot
find a place for you to live.
Can I live with my relatives?
Yes. You have the right to live with a relative or nonrelated extended family member, if they
are appropriate and able to take care of you.
Where will I live if I am a tribal member or
eligible for tribal membership?
If you are a youth that has protections under the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (ICWA),
you have the right to live in certain places in the following order or priority:
• in a home with your family or extended family;
• in a foster home that is approved or specified by your tribe;
• in a facility that is approved by your tribe;
• in an Indian Organization that meets your needs
The place you live must reflect the cultural and social values of your Tribe and tribal
community, protect your best interests as a member of an Indian tribe, and keep you
securely connected to family, social, and political ties.
Personal Rights
7
Questions & Answers About My Personal Rights
How should I be treated where I am living?
You have the right to live in a safe, healthy, and comfortable home where you are treated
with respect. This includes having a private and safe space to keep your personal things.
You have the right to live in a home that maintains the social and cultural standards of your Tribe
and tribal community, including but not limited to family, social, and political ties.
You have the right to have healthy food and enough clothes that fit and are in good
condition. You have the right to have clothes that respect your culture, ethnicity, gender
identity, and expression.
You have the right to have grooming and hygiene products (like soap, shampoo, deodorant,
feminine products, and lotion) that respect your culture, ethnicity, gender identity, and
expression. This means that you are able to have hair and body products that are best for
your type of hair and skin. Your caregiver has to make sure you have everything listed above.
What if I get upset in my foster home?
You have the right to have a caregiver that has special training on trauma and ways to help you
calm down and express yourself and your emotions when you get upset. It is important to tell
your caregiver what helps you calm down. Expressing your feelings in a positive way is healthy.
Hitting, cussing, or any type of violence is not positive or healthy. Your caregiver should not call
the police or threaten to call the police when you are upset unless you put yourself or another
person in serious danger. If you feel like hurting yourself, it may be helpful to call the National
Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255).
Tips for Calming Yourself
1. Take 10 deep breaths
2. Admit to yourself that you’re feeling angry/anxious (that can help you feel better)
3. Do something physical (walking, running, jumping jacks)
4. Think it through and ask yourself: Is this really important? Will I care about it next week?
5. Listen to music, color, or draw
6. Write it down--it can help you get the thoughts out of your head
7. Talk to a trusted friend
8. Get some fresh air
9. Change your focus--leave the situation, walk out of the room
10. Take 10 more deep breaths and imagine yourself calm
Personal Rights
8
Questions & Answers About My Personal Rights
Can my caregiver search my room or
my belongings?
Your caregiver can only do a search if they have a reasonable and legal reason to believe
that you have something that puts your safety or the safety of others at serious risk.
What if my caregiver abuses or neglects me?
No one has the right to abuse you. This includes physical, sexual, emotional, or any other
abuse, and no one can exploit you. You should tell your social worker/probation ocer,
attorney, or a trusted adult if you feel that you are being abused or neglected. You should also
contact the Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-540-4000 if you feel that you are being abused. You
can also call the Oce of the Foster Care Ombudsperson at 1-877-846-1602.
Can my caregiver lock me in a room?
No. No one can lock you in a room, building, or any other part of where you live, unless you are in a
Community Treatment Facility, like Starview, or a juvenile hall.
Can my caregiver hurt me?
No. No one can use physical discipline with you while you are in foster care. That means your
caregiver should never spank, hit, pinch, pull your hair, or do anything that hurts you. You should
tell your social worker/probation ocer, attorney, or a trusted adult if you are being hurt in your
home. You can also call the Oce of the Foster Care Ombudsperson at 1-877-846-1602. You
should also contact the Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-540-4000 if your caregiver is hurting you.
What if I feel I am being treated unfairly because of
something about me?
You should not be treated unfairly because of your race, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin,
color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, mental or physical
disability, or HIV status. You have the right to have fair and equal access to all available
services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits related to being in foster care.
Personal Rights
9
Do I get an allowance while in foster care?
Questions & Answers About My Personal Rights
Yes. You have the right to receive an allowance while in foster care. Your caregiver has to give you
an allowance that is appropriate for your age.
Can I attend religious services and activities?
Yes. You have the right to attend religious services and activities of your choice. This includes,
but is not limited to, participating in traditional Native American religious practices. Your
caregiver and social worker must arrange for you to get to and from your place of worship.
No one can force or require you to attend any religious service/activity that you do not wish to,
and you cannot be punished for not wanting to go.
Personal Rights
10
Questions & Answers About My Personal Rights
Can I participate in extracurricular or social activities?
Yes. You have the right to participate in extracurricular, cultural, racial, ethnic, personal
enrichment, and social activities that are appropriate for your age, maturity, sexual orientation,
and gender identity and expression. Some examples of these kinds of activities are sports,
dance classes, or other fun things other youth are doing.
Can I use computers and the Internet?
Yes. You have the right to use a computer or tablet and the internet in a way that is appropriate
for your age and maturity, including activities that support your sexual orientation, gender
identity and expression. Your caregiver can put reasonable restrictions (limits) on your use.
List or draw clubs or groups you are in or want to be in:
Personal Rights
11
Questions & Answers About Connections
with My Family & Friends
Can I visit my parents, grandparents, and other relatives
when I am in foster care?
Yes. You have the right to visit and contact family members and relatives, unless the judge says
you cannot. Your social worker/probation ocer must include a plan for visiting your family in
your case plan.
What if I want to see my family more often or change
the visitation plan?
You should talk to your social worker/probation ocer and your attorney. You can also tell the
judge at your next court hearing. Depending on how well your parents are doing and what your
needs are, you might be able to see them more often.
Can I visit with my siblings if we’re not living together?
Yes. You have the right to visit and have contact with your siblings, including any who are
in foster care but are not living with you, unless the judge says you cannot. Your social
worker/probation ocer must include in your case plan the visitation plan for you and your
siblings. You have the right to ask the judge to set up a visitation schedule with your siblings.
Family Members I would like to visit and contact are:
Family Connections
12
Questions & Answers About Connections
with My Family & Friends
Can I contact or visit my friends or other people
who are not in foster care?
Yes. You have the right to contact people who are not in foster care, like friends, mentors,
teachers, religious members and others, if they are safe and appropriate. If you have people
who are important to you, you should tell your caregiver, social worker/probation ocer, and
lawyer that you would like to see them.
Can I have contact with my tribe and tribal members?
Yes, you have the right to have contact with members of your tribe and tribal community that
match your tribe’s social and cultural customs and way of life.
Can I make phone calls or have other people call me?
Yes. You have the right to get and make private calls from anyone you want, unless a judge
says there are limits on who you can talk to. Your social worker/probation ocer must tell your
caregiver in writing if the judge says there are people you cannot talk to. Your caregiver can
temporarily take away your right to make or get some phone calls as a consequence.
No one can ever stop you from calling your lawyer, social worker/probation ocer,
CASA, the Foster Care Ombudsperson, and Community Care Licensing.
Family Connections
13
Questions & Answers About Connections
with My Family & Friends
My Important Connections
Write the names of all the people who are important to you.
Family Connections
14
Questions & Answers About Connections
with My Family & Friends
Can my caregiver listen to my phone calls?
No. You have the right to make and get confidential (private) calls and to talk in a place where
you have privacy and no one else is listening to your conversation. Your caregiver can only listen
to your calls if there is a court order from the judge.
Can I have my own cell phone?
Yes. You do have a right to own a cell phone unless the judge says you cannot. Your caregiver
does NOT have to pay for your cell phone and can have reasonable rules for when you use or
don’t use your cell phone.
Am I allowed to email, text, or use social media?
Yes. You have the right to privately use email, text messages, or other electronic
communication unless the judge says you cannot. Your caregiver can temporarily take away
this right as a consequence or if there is a safety risk.
Can I write letters to anyone?
Yes. You have the right to send and receive unopened
mail unless the judge says you cannot.
WRITE THE NAMES
AND NUMBERS OF
IMPORTANT PEOPLE
ON PAGE 
Family Connections
15
PRIVACY
CALL
MAIL
RIGHTS
FAMILY
FRIEND
TRIBE
CONNECT
SCHOOL
SOCIAL
B F D G A R K T M G
D P N C R G E R G R
S R E O I V U I S K
J I I N G X K B F U
L V R N H M H E A F
A A F E T G A S C A
I C I C S J F I G M
C Y A T Y K Y U L I
O H V L S C H O O L
S M R W L M J K N Y
Questions & Answers About Connections
with My Family & Friends
Word Search
Find the words in the puzzle and circle them.
Family Connections
16
Questions & Answers About My Sexual Orientation,
Gender Identity & Expression
Do my caregivers, social worker/probation ocer, and
attorney have to get special training to understand my
sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression?
Yes. You have the right to have caregivers, social workers/probation ocers, and attorneys
that have been trained to understand, respect, support, and be sensitive to sexual orientation,
gender identity and expression, and the best ways to give quality care to lesbian, gay, bisexual,
and transgender (LGBTQ+) youth in foster care. You may request a new caregiver, social
worker/probation ocer, or attorney if they are not meeting your needs.
Can I be treated differently because of my sexual
orientation, gender identity, and/or expression?
No. You have the right to be treated fairly and with respect. You have the right to get the same
services, care, treatment, and benefits as all foster youth. No one can harass you, hurt you, or
discriminate against you based on your actual or what someone thinks is your sexual
orientation, gender identity, or expression while you are in foster care. If other youth are
harassing you or threatening you, your caregiver and social worker/probation ocer must do
something to stop it. No one has the right to force you to change your sexual orientation or
gender identity.
Can I dress, style my hair, and use products that match
my gender identity and expression?
Yes. You have the right to have clothes and dress in a way that matches your gender identity
and expression. You have the right to cut and style your hair and have grooming and hygiene
products (like soap, shampoo, deodorant, and lotion) that respect your gender identity and
expression. Your caregiver must make sure you have the things listed above.
Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Expression
17
Questions & Answers About My Sexual Orientation,
Gender Identity & Expression
Can I participate in extracurricular, enrichment, spiritual,
and social activities for LGBTQ+ youth?
Yes. You have the right to participate in activities for LGBTQ+ youth, like LGBTQ+ sports, Gay
Prom, and LGBTQ+ youth clubs or support groups.
Can I have LGBTQ+ friends and mentors?
Yes. You have the right to see and have friends and mentors outside of foster care that
are LGBTQ+.
Do I have the right to live in a home that respects my
sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression?
Yes. You have the right to live in a home or STRTP that accepts your gender identity and gender
expression regardless of what any records say about your sex at birth. If your caregivers do not
accept your gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation and you feel unsafe, you
have the right to move to a different place. You also have the right to use a safe bathroom
where you are not harassed. You can’t be forced to use a bathroom that doesn’t match your
gender identity. You should tell your attorney and social worker if you do not feel safe where
you live.
Can I request that my caregiver, social worker/probation
ocer, and other people in my home call me by my
preferred name and gender pronoun?
Yes. You have the right to be called by the name and gender pronoun you choose regardless
of what any records say. Your caregiver and social worker/probation ocer must respect your
chosen name and pronouns. Gender pronouns are words like she/her, he/him, or gender-
neutral pronouns like they/them.
Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Expression
18
Questions & Answers About My Sexual Orientation,
Gender Identity & Expression
Can I keep information about my sexual orientation and
gender identity and expression private?
Yes. You have the right to keep information about your sexual orientation, gender identity, and
expression private unless you allow the information to be shared. This information may also
be shared if sharing it will protect your health and safety or if the judge orders it to be shared.
Do I have the right to see a doctor or counselor that
supports and understands my sexual orientation,
gender identity, and expression?
Yes. You have the right to get gender arming health care and mental health care. You have
the right to see doctors and counselors that are specially trained to serve transgender and
gender diverse youth. Gender arming health care might include, but is not limited to,
prescribed medications that stop puberty, hormone treatments, or surgery to make your body’s
appearance match your gender identity. Gender arming mental health care means seeing a
counselor that has special training to work with transgender or gender diverse youth. Gender
arming surgery would require parental consent or a court order for minors, and non-minor
dependents can consent for themselves. Gender diverse means people of all different genders
including those outside of male and female.
Do I get to help create my case plan and can it include
things to support my sexual orientation, gender
identity and expression?
Yes. You have the right to help your social worker/probation ocer create your case plan,
including decisions about where you will live, what the long-term plan will be if you cannot
return home, your needs, and any services related to your sexual orientation, gender identity
and expression, gender arming health, and mental health care.
Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Expression
19
Questions & Answers About My Health
General Health Rights
Do I have a right to see a doctor, dentist,
and counselor?
Yes. You have a right to timely health care, including medical, dental, vision, mental health
services, reproductive and sexual health care, and drug treatment. You can talk to your caregiver
and social worker/probation ocer if you need to see a doctor. Your caregiver and social worker/
probation ocer have to make sure you can get the care you need when you need it.
Can I choose my doctor/dentist/counselor?
Yes. If you are 12 or older, you can choose your own doctor, as long as it is covered by
your insurance.
Can I talk to my doctor about my treatment?
Yes. You can talk with your doctor about your treatment and any
questions you have. You may also speak to your doctors privately.
How will I get to my doctor appointments?
Your caregiver has to make sure you have transportation to and
from your medical appointments.
Who can I talk to about any medical diagnosis and
the treatment, medicine, or services that I need?
Your doctor, pharmacist, or social worker/probation ocer can give you information
about your health condition, treatment, and services, and they must explain it to you in
a way that you understand.
Health
20
Questions & Answers About My Health
Fill out the information for your health needs/concerns
Write in pencil so you can update when necessary
Medical Conditions
Medical Allergies
Medications
(names and amounts and what they are treating)
Family Medical History
Health
21
Questions & Answers About My Health
Can I have a say in making decisions about my
medical treatment and services?
Yes. You have the right to be part of decision-making about your medical treatment and services.
Can I refuse to take medications?
Yes. You can refuse any medication, vitamin, or herbs. No one can give you consequences
or punish you for refusing. It is important to talk to your doctor about the health risks of not
taking your medicine (meds).
If I need major treatment, like surgery, can I
ask another doctor for their opinion?
Yes. Before any major medical, dental, or psychiatric treatment you can ask for a
second opinion.
Do I have the right to get health care that supports
my gender identity?
Yes. You have the right to get gender arming medical and mental health care.
Can I keep my medical and mental health records private?
Yes. You can keep these records, including your HIV status, drug use history and treatment,
and sexual and reproductive care private. There may be some exceptions to this.
Can I still get Medi-Cal (insurance) if I leave
foster care when I turn 18?
Yes. If you leave foster care on or after your 18th birthday, you can continue to receive
Medi-Cal until you turn 26.
Health
22
Questions & Answers About My Health
Mental Health Rights
Do I have to get permission if I want to get treatment
for a drug or alcohol problem?
No. You can get help with a drug or alcohol problem without permission. You may want to talk
with the important adults in your life about this so they can support you, but you can look for
help on your own.
What do I do if I do not like the way a medication
is making me feel?
You have the right to be told about how medicine prescribed for you
will help you and any side effects of the medicine. If the side effects are
bothering you or you don’t want to take the medicine, you can tell your
caregiver and your doctor. You can also tell your social worker/probation
ocer, lawyer, and the judge how the medicine makes you feel.
What if I do not want to take
psychotropic medications?
SEE CHILD’S OPINION
ABOUT MEDICINE
FORM JV-
ON PAGE 
Psychotropic medications are medicines (meds or drugs) used to help with mental health conditions.
You should always talk with your doctor about your concerns and the risks of not taking a medication.
If you want to stop taking a medication you are already on, you should work with your doctor to do
this in a safe way. You can also tell your lawyer and the judge how you feel about the medications you
are taking, any side effects, or other concerns you might have about these medications.
A judge has to approve any psychotropic medications a doctor prescribes. You can tell the judge how
these medicines make you feel by asking for and filling out the JV-218 form. You can see a copy of this
form on p. 55.
You have the right to refuse psychotropic medication, and no one can give you consequences or
punish you for refusing.
What if I want to stop taking psychotropic drugs?
You have the right to work with your doctor to safely stop taking psychotropic drugs.
Health
23
Not So
Good
Not So
Good
Not So
Good
Questions & Answers About My Health
My Psychotropic Medications
Name of medication Why I’m taking it How often I take it
Dosage
(How much I take)
Doctor who
prescribed it
Name of Medication How it makes me feel/side effects
1.
Very Bad
Very Good
Good
Okay
2.
Very Bad
Very Good
Good
Okay
3.
Very Bad
Very Good
Good
Okay
Health
24
Questions & Answers About My Health
Sexual & Reproductive Health Rights
Can I get information about sexual and
reproductive health care?
Yes. You have the right to get age appropriate, factual, and understandable medical
information about reproductive health care, the prevention of unplanned pregnancy, and
the prevention and treatment of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
Can I get tested or treated for a sexually
transmitted infection without permission?
Yes. If you are 12 or older, you can get (or refuse) testing, care, or prevention for sexually
transmitted infections. You do not need permission. You should talk to your doctor about why
it’s important to get tested for STIs.
Can I get medical treatment to prevent, or treat
sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or HIV?
Yes. If you are 12 or older, you have the right to make your own decisions about preventing,
testing, or treating sexually transmitted infections and HIV. You do NOT need permission from
your parent, caregiver, social worker/probation ocer, or any other adult.
Can I get birth control or other types of protection?
Yes. At any age, you have the right to make your own decisions about birth control. You have
the right to get or refuse, keep, and use birth control or protection of your choice including,
condoms; birth control patch, pill, or shot; diaphragm; spermicide; dental dam; emergency
contraception (Plan B/Morning-After Pill); and medications to prevent STIs.
You have the right to keep your birth control in your own private storage space. Condoms or
birth control cannot be taken away as a punishment or due to your caregiver’s religious beliefs
or personal feelings.
Health
25
Can I keep my sexual and reproductive health
records private?
Questions & Answers About My Health
Yes. When you get sexual or reproductive health care or ask your doctor questions about sex,
your doctor cannot share that information with your parents, caregivers, STRTP staff, or social
worker/probation ocer without your written consent. There are a few exceptions.
You also have the right to ask your doctor to explain privacy to you and who can and cannot get
your medical information before you get any health care.
Can I choose where I go to get sexual and reproductive
health care?
Yes. You have the right to choose your own health care provider (doctor, nurse, etc.) for sexual
and reproductive health care, as long as they take Medi-Cal or another approved insurance.
Your caregiver, social worker/probation ocer, or STRTP staff must help you get transportation
to get reproductive and sexual health care services in a timely manner.
What if I am pregnant? What are my options?
If you are pregnant while in foster care, you can decide what you want to do. You can
keep the baby, place the baby for adoption, or have an abortion. You do not need to get
permission to get prenatal care or have an abortion. If both parents are known, they both
have to agree to place the baby for adoption. You can also safely leave your baby at any
hospital or fire station in California with no questions asked. For more information call
1-877-222-9723.
What are my rights regarding services if I am
sexually assaulted?
At any age, you have the right to get or refuse any services because of a rape or sexual assault.
You do not have to get the permission of any adult, but you can talk to someone you trust
about what to do.
Health
26
______________________
______________________
______________________
______________________
______________________
______________________
Questions & Answers About My Health
Medical Provider List
Medical
Provider Name: _____________________________
Phone Number:
____________________________
Loc
ation: ___________________________________
Upcoming Appt Date
T
ransportation
Secured?
______________________
Upcomin
g Appt Time
______________________
yes
no
Vision
P
rovider Name: _____________________________
Phone Number: ____________________________
Location: ___________________________________
Tr
ansportation
Secured?
Upcoming Appt Date
Upcoming Appt Time
yes
no
Substance Use Disorder Tr
eatment
Provider Name:
_____________________________
Phon
e Number:
____________________________
Loc
ation:
___________________________________
Tr
ansportation
Secured?
Upcoming Appt Dat
e
Upcoming Appt Time
______________________
no
yes
Dental
P
rovider Name:
_____________________________
Phon
e Number:
____________________________
Location:
___________________________________
Upcomin
g Appt Date
T
ransportation
Secured?
______________________
Upcomin
g Appt Tim
e
______________________
yes
no
Mental Health
Pro
vider Name:
_____________________________
Phone Number: ____________________________
Loc
ation:
___________________________________
Transportation
Secured?
Upcoming Appt Date
Upcoming Appt T
ime
yes
no
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Provider Name:
_____________________________
Phone Number: ____________________________
Loc
ation:
___________________________________
Transportation
Secured?
Upcoming Appt Date
Upcoming Appt Time
______________________
no
yes
Health
27
Do I have a right to go to school?
Questions & Answers About My Education
Yes. You have the right and responsibility to go to school every day, get help when you need
it, have access to school supplies, and other resources that you need to do well and succeed
in school. You have the right to the same school resources, services, and activities as all other
students in your school.
Who can make educational decisions for me?
You have the right to have an “education rights holder.” An education rights holder is an adult
who understands your educational needs and makes decisions about your education. This may
be your parent or another person approved by the judge, like a relative, foster parent, or CASA.
Your education rights holder cannot be your social worker/probation ocer, lawyer, STRTP
staff, or school staff.
Do I have to change schools if my placement changes?
No. You have the right to stay in your “school of origin” if it is best for you to stay in that
school. Your school of origin is the school you attended when you entered foster care, or
before the placement change, or another school you have had a connection to within the
past 15 months. You have the right to get transportation to your school of origin. If there is
disagreement about which school you will attend, you should tell your lawyer immediately.
You have the right to stay in your same school until the disagreement is resolved.
What happens if I have to change schools?
If you and your education rights holder agree that you need to move schools, you have the
right to immediately enroll in the new school and begin classes. You cannot be turned
away because you don’t have the right paperwork (like your birth certificate, transcripts, or
immunization records) or owe fees or items to another school.
Education
28
Questions & Answers About My Education
The skills and training that I
need for this career are...
Some things I can do now to prepare for this career are...
I am choosing this
career because...
Career Goal
My future career goal is...My future career goal is...
Education
29
Questions & Answers About My Education
If I change schools during the school year, what happens to
the credits I earned from my last school?
If you change schools during the school year, you have a right to receive partial (some) credits in all
classes that you were passing when you left your school even if you did not finish the entire class.
What if I need help with school?
You have the right to get help with school if you need it. This help can include tutoring, mentoring,
counseling, and a referral for special education services. Your social worker/probation ocer, caregiver,
education rights holder, school foster youth liaison, or school counselor can help you get the services
you need.
Do I have priority enrollment in school because I am
in foster care?
Yes. You have the right to priority enrollment in preschool, for after school programs, at
California State Universities, and in community colleges.
What are my options for education after high school?
You have the right to get accurate information and help from your social worker/probation
ocer on how to apply for college and financial aid. You also have the right to get accurate
information about other options you may have, including career education programs, such
as cosmetology, nursing, construction, and/or automotive programs. You also must be told
about special programs for foster youth at the University of California schools, California State
University schools, and the California Community Colleges.
Additional Information on Services and Supports for College
Foster Youth Success Initiative
http://www.cacollegepathways.org/find-campus-
support-programs/foster-youth-success-initiative-
fysi/
California State University Resources for
Foster Youth
https://www2.calstate.edu/attend/student-
services/foster-youth
California Chafee Grant Program
https://www.chafee.csac.ca.gov/
StudentApplication.aspx
JBAY Youth Resources
https://www.jbaforyouth.org/youth-resources/
Education
30
Questions & Answers About Preparing for Adulthood
& Money Management
What happens if I turn 18 in foster care?
Some young people between the ages of 18 and 21 are able to stay in foster care and continue
receiving services and support, including financial and housing assistance. This is called
Extended Foster Care/AB12. As part of Extended Foster Care/AB 12, some young adult former
foster children may be eligible to go back into foster care if they left.
If you want to learn more about Extended Foster Care/AB12, ask your social worker/probation
ocer, call the LA County DCFS Child Protection Hotline at (800)-540-4000, or contact the
California Foster Care Ombudsperson at (877)-846-1602.
What is the Independent Living Program (ILP), and
can I participate?
You have the right to participate in the Independent Living Program (ILP) if you are in foster
care at age 16 and can participate until your 21st birthday. ILP teaches life skills to get you
ready for adulthood. You will learn about housing, college or other school options, finding
and keeping a job, getting a driver’s license, money management, and skills to take care of
yourself. Your social worker/probation ocer will work with you to create a plan for ILP called
a Transition to Independent Living Plan (TILP) to help you set goals and prepare for adulthood.
Your caregiver cannot stop you from going to ILP activities (classes and events) as a
consequence or punishment.
Can I get a job?
Yes. You can have a job beginning at age 14, if you get a work permit. Your school and your
social worker/probation ocer can help you get a work permit.
Can I open a bank account?
Yes. You have the right to have a bank account and to budget, save, and spend your money
unless the judge and your case plan says you cannot.
Preparing for Adulthood
31
Questions & Answers About Preparing for Adulthood
& Money Management
What is a credit score?
A credit score is like a report card that tells you about your spending, paying bills on time, and
how much money you owe. Your credit report has a score, and that number is very important
because when you are an adult, it is used when you want to look for a place to live, if you want
to buy a car or home, and if you want to get credit cards or loans. If you have a high score, it’s
like getting an A on your report card, and the lower your score, the worse your grade.
If you are age 14-17, your social worker/probation ocer must get a copy of your credit report
from the three major credit agencies (Experian, Equifax, and Trans Union). They must give you
these reports each year and help you understand them and fix any problems, like someone
else getting credit cards or other accounts in your name and not paying the bills.
Can I get a drivers license?
Yes. You have the right to get a drivers license. Your social worker/probation ocer can sign your
application without taking personal responsibility.
You can also have your application signed by a grandparent, sibling over the age of 18, aunt,
uncle, or the foster parent you are living with. However, if any of these people sign, you will
both be held responsible if you get in an accident.
Ask your caregiver and social worker/probation ocer or your ILP program if they can help pay
for driver’s education and driver’s training.
Preparing for Adulthood
32
Questions & Answers About Court
What happens at court?
At each court hearing, the judge learns about how you and your family are doing and makes
decisions about your case. You will have a court hearing at least every 6 months while you are
in foster care, and sometimes more often depending on what is happening with your case and
what your needs are.
Can I talk to the judge at court?
Yes. You have the right to talk to the judge about anything that is important to you while you
are at court. You should let your lawyer know that you want to speak to the judge, it is a good
idea to prepare what you want to say before you get in the courtroom.
How do I know when there is a court hearing, and can I go
to court?
You have the right to be told about court hearings and to go to court. Your social worker/probation
ocer must tell you about your court hearings in writing at least 15 days before your hearing, but
no more than 30 days before. Your social worker /probation ocer and caregiver must arrange
transportation for you to and from court.
Can I decide who goes to my court hearings?
You have the right to ask for certain people to attend your court hearing. You also have the
right to say that you do not want certain people to attend your court hearing, but the judge
can still let them stay if they think there is a good reason for them to be there.
Can someone from my tribe be at court?
Yes. You have the right to have a person that your Tribe chooses be at court.
Court
33
Questions & Answers About Court
What is a court report, and can I get a copy of it?
A court report is a report to the judge that your social worker writes to tell them details about
your case and how you and your family are doing. Your court report includes information
about where you live; your health and education; visitation with parents and siblings; your
needs, including services; and your case plan.
If you do not agree with something in your court report, you should tell your lawyer right away.
Yes. You have the right to get a copy of your court report.
Can anyone else see my court paperwork?
You have the right to keep your court paperwork private, but there may be exceptions if the
judge has a legal reason to let someone else see it. Some people, such as your parents, legal
guardians, or siblings, may be able to see your court reports if there is a legal reason for them
to see it.
Do I have the right to get court or foster care records
about me?
Yes. You have the right to see and get a copy of your court reports, child welfare records
(though some information that is confidential may be taken out), and education records. You
have a right to get copies of these records for free until your 26th birthday.
Do I have the right to a lawyer?
Yes. You have the right to have a lawyer represent you in court. Your lawyer has to tell the
judge what you want to happen and to make sure that you are safe and have the services
and support that you need. Your lawyer can help answer questions you have about court, the
foster care system, and other laws that impact you.
Your lawyer has to have special training on the Indian Child Welfare Act, sexual orientation,
gender identity, and expression.
Court
34
Questions & Answers About Court
What does my lawyer do?
Your lawyer is sometimes called an attorney and their job is to look out for your legal
interests and what is best for you.
This means that they are responsible for:
• making sure that all laws and court orders are followed;
• asking for any court orders that may be needed; and
• making sure that your social worker/probation ocer provide you with a safe and stable
place to live and all the services you need to be safe, healthy, and do well at school.
• telling the judge what you want them to know.
• protecting your legal interests even if they are not about foster care. This part of their job
means making sure someone is helping you with things like immigration, money from an
inheritance, or a lawsuit if you are injured.
You should talk to your lawyer about everything that is important to you. You have the right to
talk to your lawyer about anything related to foster care and any other issues you have that are
not about foster care. Your lawyer must look into your concerns.
Can my lawyer tell others what I tell them?
You have the right to speak to your lawyer in private, and everything that you tell them should
stay between the two of you. This is called confidentiality. The only reason your lawyer can tell
others what you talk about in private is if you give them permission or if your lawyer has a
good reason to believe that you are about to commit a crime that will cause death or serious
physical harm to others.
What if I don’t think my lawyer is doing their job to
represent me?
You have the right to ask the judge to appoint a new lawyer if you do not think that your
lawyer is doing their job of telling the court what you want and what is in your best interest.
It is important to know that the judge could say no to your request for a new lawyer.
Court
35
Questions & Answers About Court
Interview with a Lawyer
What are some of the most important things that a lawyer can do for
foster youth?
Your lawyer will fight for you at court. They are there to make sure you are heard and
taken seriously by the judge. Your lawyer will work hard to understand your needs
and to argue for things that you need. For example, your lawyer will talk with you
about your safety, your living situation, visitation with parents and siblings, what is
likely to happen in court, and what you can expect in your family’s court case. The
court process can be overwhelming and complicated – your attorney is there to help
you understand what is going on and what is expected to happen in the upcoming
weeks and months.
What are some other ways that lawyers can support foster youth?
In addition to representing you in court, your lawyer can help you solve other
problems you may be experiencing with things, such as where you are going
to school, your progress in school, anything about your health that you may be
concerned about, help getting therapy, or other services. Your lawyer can also
connect you to services that will help you, including services related to mental
health, immigration, juvenile justice, child custody, sexual and reproductive health,
and extended foster care if you are 18 or older.
What is one thing that you wish more foster youth knew about using
their lawyer?
Foster youth should know that their relationship with their lawyer is confidential; that
means that anything you tell your lawyer must be kept private and not shared without
your permission unless telling someone will prevent death or serious harm to the youth
or others or to prevent a crime. This is different than when a foster youth speaks with
a social worker or other adult service provider. Your lawyer is the one person in the
courtroom who is there just to fight for what you want and what you need. Youth should
always reach out to their lawyer with questions or just to talk.
What happens at court can be confusing and a lot to deal with. Lawyers will talk to foster
youth about what’s happening when they come to court. They will explain the reason
that they are in court, what will happen during the court hearing, and what is expected
to happen in the next few weeks and months in a way that the youth understands.
Court
36
Questions & Answers About My Case Plan
What is a case plan?
It is the plan that describes what will happen in your case. It includes the services that you and
your family need. A case plan must say what your needs are and how they will be met; what is
in your best interest; and the services you are getting while in foster care. You have the right to
have a case plan created within 60 days of coming into foster care and updated at least every
six months. The case plan is part of the court record and is included at each court hearing.
Case plan must include information about:
• health;
• education;
• visitation;
• services you need to be safe and healthy;
• long-term plan for where you will live
if you are not able to go home;
• where you are living and if that is the
best place for you; and
• if you are 16 or older, your Transition to
Independent Living Plan (TILP)
Do I get to help create my case plan?
Yes. You have the right to help create your case plan, including making decisions about where
you will live and what the long-term plan will be if you cannot return home.
If it applies to you, your case plan must include a plan to make sure you have access to gender
arming health care that is consistent with your gender identity.
Do I get a copy of my case plan?
Beginning at age 10, you have the right to read, sign, and get a copy of your case plan.
What if changes are made to my case plan?
You have the right to be told of any changes to your case plan.
Case Plan
37
What is my Tribe’s role in my case plan?
Questions & Answers About My Case Plan
Your social worker/probation ocer must work with your tribe in all case planning
decisions, including where you will live. Case plan decisions must reflect the social
and cultural values, conditions, and way of life of your Indian community or tribe.
Your case plan must involve your family members, the tribe, tribal and other Indian
social service agencies, and Indian caregivers. Your social worker/probation ocer
has to make sure you get to go to Indian programs, services, and events and include
these in your case plan. Your social worker should work with your tribe and other
tribal/Native American resources to make sure you can participate in tribal programs,
services, and events.
Your case plan must say who is going to ask your tribe to enroll you if you are not
already a member.
If I am an Indian youth, are my tribal relations
protected in my case plan?
Yes. Your case plan has to include protection of important tribal relations by helping
you to form and continue political, cultural, and social relationships with your tribe and
Indian community.
Case Plan
38
What is my Child & Family Team?
Questions & Answers About My Child & Family Team
You have the right to a Child and Family Team (CFT). The CFT is a group of people, including you,
who come together to help make the best plans for your safety, well being, and future.
Who is part of my Child & Family Team?
You have the right to have both formal support (such as your social worker/probation ocer
or counselor) and informal support people (such as family members, caregivers, advocates, or
teachers) be a part of your Child & Family Team (CFT) and attend CFT meetings. You and your
family have a voice (say) in deciding who should or shouldn’t be included in your CFT.
When do Child & Family Team (CFT) meetings happen?
You have the right to have a CFT meeting:
n within 60 days of entering foster care;
n at least every six months;
n before creating or making any changes to your case plan;
n for decisions about where you will live, each time and before you move to any other
place, and to help resolve conflicts in the home to allow you to continue living there;
n to talk about your needs and strengths, and coordinate any services that might be
helpful to you;
n to talk about visits with your siblings;
n when you are preparing to leave foster care;
n at least every 90 days if you are in an STRTP or in a therapeutic foster home; and
n at least every 90 days if you are getting certain types of services, such as intensive
home-based services or intensive case coordination
Child & Family Team
39
Questions & Answers About My Child & Family Team
Can I ask for a Child & Family
Team meeting?
Yes. You have the right to request more CFT meetings
to talk about your concerns, such as changes in
where you live, changes in your service needs, and
sibling or family visits.
TELL YOUR SOCIAL
WORKER/PROBATION
OFFICER WHEN YOU
WANT TO HAVE A
CFT TO TALK ABOUT
YOUR CONCERNS.
What should I do at my CFT meetings?
It is important for you to say what you are feeling and what you need and want. You will be
helping your team to make the best decisions about your life.
Write down what you want to discuss at your CFT meeting below.
Child & Family Team
40
Try to remember the event.
Writing it down can help.
-What happened?
-Where did it happen?
-When did it happen?
-Who was involved?
-What rights were violated?
If you feel safe, talk to your caregiver
or staff member.
Call the Oce of the Foster Care
Ombudsperson at 1-877-846-1602.
If you feel safe, try to resolve it with
the people who were involved.
Who to Call About My Rights
Who is responsible for talking to me about my rights?
You have the right to have your social worker/probation ocer review your rights with you in
a way that you understand. You must be given a copy of your rights at the time you come into
foster care, at every placement change, and at least once every six months during a regular
visit with your social worker/probation ocer.
If you think your rights have been violated...
Who can I contact if I think my rights are being violated?
• You have the right to be given the contact information for the Community Care Licensing
Division (CCL), the tribal authority approving a tribally approved home, and the State Foster
Care Ombudsperson at the time you enter foster care and each placement change.
• You have the right to contact any or all of these oces or those listed on the next page,
immediately when you ask, if you think your rights are being violated.
• You have a right to speak to these oces confidentially, and you cannot be threatened,
punished, or retaliated against for making complaints.
Remember, you should also tell your social worker/probation ocer, lawyer, and judge if you
think your rights are being violated.
Who to Call About My Rights
41
Who to Call About My Rights
The Oce of the Foster Care Ombudsperson is an independent oce that
investigates complaints and works to resolve concerns about foster youth rights,
the care youth get, where they live, or the services they need or receive. If you
have a complaint, call, email, or visit on the web:
California Foster Care Ombudsperson
Phone: 1-877-846-1602
Email: Fosteryouthhelp@dss.ca.gov
Website: www.fosteryouthhelp.ca.gov
Community Care Licensing Division
This is the division of the State Department of Social Services that licenses
and oversees foster family agencies, daycares, group homes, short-term
therapeutic residential facilities, foster homes, and residential care for
children (and adults) throughout California.
Phone: 1-844-538-8766
Email: letusknow@dss.ca.gov
LA County Ombudsperson for DCFS Youth placed in STRTPs
and Group Homes
Helpline: 1-888-445-1234
Email: afriend@auditor.lacounty.gov
Website: http://grouphomeombudsman.lacounty.gov
LA County Ombudsperson for Probation Youth placed in Juvenile Halls,
Camps, STRTPs, and Group Homes
Helpline: 1-877-822-3222
Email: ombudsman@probation.lacounty.gov
Website: https://probation.lacounty.gov/ombudsman
Who to Call About My Rights
42
Definitions
TERM DEFINITION
AB 12
Assembly Bill (AB) 12, also called Extended Foster Care, is the law that
allows young people between the ages of 1 8 and 21 to stay in foster
care and continue receiving services and suppor t, including financial
and housing assistance. Youth interested in AB 12/Extended Foster
Care or returning to Extended Foster Care should call the DCFS Child
Protection Hotline at 800-540-4000 or contact the California Foster
Care Ombudsperson at (877)-846-1602.
A person appointed by the school district to help foster youth with
(1) ensuring proper educational placement, school enrollment, and
“checkout” (withdrawal) from school, and (2) transfer of grades, credits,
and records when there is a school change.
Foster Youth Services Liaison
(Sometimes called AB 490
Counselor)
Sometimes called a resource family or foster parent, a person who
has been approved to provide a home for and take care of youth
who are in foster care. Caregivers are responsible for making sure
that youth are healthy, safe, and have what they need. STRTP staff
are also caregivers.
Caregiver
A written document prepared by a social worker/probation officer
that describes the care and services to be provided to a youth who
has been placed in foster care. It must include a description of the
placement; a plan for providing the youth with safe and proper care; a
plan for services that will be provided, along with a timeline; and other
issues relating to health, safety, and well-being.
Case Plan
Chemical Substances are sometimes called medicine, psychotropic
meds, or drugs. They include medicines that a doctor has given you
or those that you can buy at a store. Illegal drugs are also called
chemical substances.
Chemical Substances
Child and Family
Team (CFT)
A group of people, which may include extended family members and
members of the youth’s community and/or tribe and other people
identified by the youth, who come together to talk and make decisions
about case planning and placement that will best support success of
the family and positive outcome for the youth’s safety, permanence,
and well-being.
Glossary
43
Definitions
TERM DEFINITION
Child Welfare System
The group of government agencies and juvenile courts that (1) take and
investigate reports of possible child abuse and neglect; (2) provide services
to ensure safety and care of youth and to suppor t their families; (3) arrange
for youth to live with relatives, non-relative extended family members,
or foster families when they are not safe at home; and (4) arrange for
reunification, adoption, or other permanent connections for children leaving
foster care. The Los Angeles County child welfare system also includes
non-government agencies that provide services to youth and their families.
A state agency that gives licenses to people and facilities/organizations
to provide homes and ongoing care to foster youth. CCL is responsible
for investigating complaints about the care or conditions where foster
children live.
Community Care
Licensing Division (CCL)
Community Treatment
Facilities (CTF)
A locked facility where youth live when they need specialized mental
health services to keep them safe.
Options to prevent pregnancy and some sexually transmitted
infections, such as condoms and birth control pills, patches, or shots.
Contraception
Court Appointed Special
Advocate (CASA)
Volunteers appointed by the judge to meet regularly with a youth who
is in foster care and to advocate for their wishes and what is best for a
youth. A CASA can (1) advocate or speak up for the youth, (2) investigate
or look into problems that the youth is having, (4) report or speak to the
judge for the youth, and (5) recommend or ask the judge to make orders
that will help the youth.
A youth that is in this court is sometimes called a 602, named for the
section of law about juvenile delinquency.
Delinquency Court
Dependency court focuses on children who have been abused or
neglected by a parent, legal guardian, or Indian custodian. A youth
that is in this court is sometimes called a 300, named after the section
of law that is about juvenile dependency (foster care).
Dependency Court
Glossary
44
Definitions
TERM DEFINITION
A legal word used to describe an abused or neglected youth who is
supervised by dependency court.
Dependent
Discrimination is unfairly treating a person or group of people
differently from other people, often because of age, race, sex,
nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression,
religion, or disability.
Discrimination
Written verification of a youth’s time spent in foster care. This used to
be called the Ward of the Court letter.
Foster Youth Verification Letter
Gender is what society expects and stereotypes about what it means
to be male or female. People can identify as male or female or as
moving between genders, no gender, or as another gender. Gender
is fluid and can change.
Gender
The way a person expresses their gender identity, such as through
how they dress or behave.
Gender Expression
How a person thinks of their own gender. It might be different from
what is on their birth certificate or child welfare records.
Gender Identity
A word used to refer to people, such as she/her/hers, he/him/his, or
gender neutral pronouns such as they/them/theirs or ze/hir/hirs.
Gender Pronoun
Harassment
Harassment can be words, behaviors, or actions that cause the
person it is directed at to feel scared, annoyed, or emotionally upset
and should be repor ted to a trusted adult.
Glossary
45
Definitions
TERM DEFINITION
Independent Living Program
(ILP)
The ILP provides training, services, and programs that help current and
former foster youth to prepare for adulthood before and after leaving
the foster care system. Youth are eligible for ILP services up to the day
before their 21st birthday if they meet one of the following conditions:
(1) They were or are in foster care at any time from their 1 6th to their
19th birthday, or
(2) They were or are between the ages of 16 and 18 years of age and
participating in the Kinship Guardianship Assistance Payment Program
(Kin-GAP).
Some of the ILP services are: daily living skills, money management,
decision making, building self-esteem, financial assistance with college or
vocational schools, educational resources, housing (transitional housing),
and employment.
The Indian Child Welfare
Act (ICWA)
A federal law that passed in 1978 to protect the best interest of
Indian children and to promote the stability and security of federally
recognized Indian tribes and families.
The ICWA created laws that require recognition of tribal laws, customs,
and cultural values when removing Indian children from their families
and placing them outside of the family home. Because tribes are
governments separate from a state or county, the ICWA requires state
and county authorities to work with the tribes where Indian children may
be placed in foster care or for adoption.
Juvenile detention centers and juvenile halls (“juvie”) are secure residential
facilities for young people who are accused of violating the law, who have
been found to have violated the law, or are awaiting a court hearing.
Juvenile Detention
A person who is licensed to practice law. The court will appoint a lawyer
to represent (speak for) youth in dependency and delinquency courts.
Lawyer/Attorney
Mental health is emotional or psychological well-being. It includes
feeling able to enjoy life, engage in work or school, and be in healthy
relationships with others. It includes feeling able to recover from difficult
experiences and being able to cope with the normal stresses of life.
Mental Health
Medications, sometimes called drugs or meds, are substances used
to treat a physical medical condition or mental health condition.
Medications may be prescribed by a doctor or bought “over-the-
counter” without a prescription from a doctor.
Medication
Glossary
46
Definitions
TERM DEFINITION
Under AB 12, foster youth who meet certain conditions and
choose to remain in foster care past age 1 8 and up to age 21 are
referred to as nonminor dependents. (Also see AB-12 definition)
Nonminor Dependent (NMD)
An adult who has a suppor tive relationship with a youth and
is important to the youth but not a blood relative. A NREFM
is also an adult who has a strong relationship with one of the
youth’s relatives.
Non-Relative Extended
Family Member (NREFM)
An ombudsperson is a person whose job is to receive, investigate,
and resolve complaints about rights violations or other concerns.
Ombudsperson
A living arrangement that is meant to be the permanent home or
permanent living arrangement for a youth until they leave the child
welfare system.
Permanent Placement
Placement
Where a youth lives while they are in foster care.
Probation Officer
Probation officers are responsible for supervision of some youth
(juveniles) on probation. They are required to make regular home
visits to ensure that that youth are healthy and safe and that
delinquency court orders are being followed. They also meet with
youth and their families to help with rehabilitation.
Psychotropic medications are prescription meds used in the
treatment of various psychiatric or mental health conditions, like
anxiety, Bi-polar Disorder, or ADHD. Examples of psychotropic
medications are meds like Adderal and Lithium.
Psychotropic Medication
(also called drugs)
Reproductive health is the complete physical, mental, and social
well-being in all matters relating to the reproductive system.
Reproductive Health
Glossary
47
Definitions
TERM DEFINITION
The school a youth attended when they entered foster care before
their placement change or another school they have had a connection
to within the past 15 months.
School of Origin
Who you’re attracted to and want to have sexual or romantic
relationships with. Sexual orientations include, but are not limited to,
gay, lesbian, straight, bisexual, and asexual.
Sexual Orientation
A residential facility that provides specialized and intensive services
and supports to youth placed in foster care that need extra support or
treatment so that they can heal and return to living in a home environment.
Placement in an STRTP should be limited to six months unless a youth’s
needs justify a longer stay.
Short-Term Residential
Treatment Program (STRTP)
Social Worker
Also called Children’s Social Workers or CSWs, they are responsible
for supervision of youth who have DCFS cases. They make regular
home visits to ensure that that youth are healthy and safe, have what
they need, and that dependency court orders are being followed.
They also meet with youth and their families to help the family get
back together when possible.
An adoption for Indian children who are dependents that allows
them to be adopted through customs and laws of the child’s tribe
without terminating their parent’s rights.
Tribal Customary Adoption
(TCA)
A written agreement, approval, or permission for something
to happen.
Written Consent
A regular time and date for families to visit one another and
be together.
Visitation Schedule
Glossary
48
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
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WIC 16001.9 –
Legal Language About Your Rights
California Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) 16001.9
(a) All children placed in foster care, either voluntarily or after being adjudged a ward or dependent of
the juvenile court pursuant to Section 300, 601, or 602, shall have the rights specified in this section.
These rights also apply to nonminor dependents in foster care, except when they conflict with nonminor
dependents’ retention of all their legal decision making authority as an adult. The rights are as follows:
To live in a safe, healthy, and comfortable home where they are treated with respect. If the
child is an Indian child, to live in a home that upholds the prevailing social and cultural
standards of the child’s Indian community, including, but not limited to, family, social, and
political ties.
To be free from physical, sexual, emotional, or other abuse, corporal punishment,
and exploitation.
To receive adequate and healthy food, adequate clothing, grooming and hygiene products,
and an age-appropriate allowance. Clothing and grooming and hygiene products shall respect
the child’s culture, ethnicity, and gender identity and expression.
To be placed in the least restrictive setting possible, regardless of age, physical health, mental
health, sexual orientation, and gender identity and expression, juvenile court record, or status
as a pregnant or parenting youth, unless a court orders otherwise.
To be placed with a relative or nonrelative extended family member if an appropriate and
willing individual is available.
To not be locked in any portion of their foster care placement, unless placed in a community
treatment facility.
To have a placement that utilizes trauma-informed and evidence-based deescalation and
intervention techniques, to have law enforcement intervention requested only when there is
an imminent threat to the life or safety of a child or another person or as a last resort after other
diversion and deescalation techniques have been utilized, and to not have law enforcement
intervention used as a threat or in retaliation against the child.
WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
49
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WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
To not be detained in a juvenile detention facility based on their status as a dependent of
the juvenile court or the child welfare services department’s inability to provide a foster
care placement. If they are detained, to have all the rights afforded under the United States
Constitution, the California Constitution, and all applicable state and federal laws.
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
To have storage space for private use.
To be free from unreasonable searches of personal belongings.
To be provided the names and contact information for social workers, probation ocers,
attorneys, service providers, foster youth advocates and supporters, Court Appointed Special
Advocates (CASAs), and education rights holder if other than the parent or parents, and when
applicable, representatives designated by the child’s Indian tribe to participate in the juvenile
court proceeding, and to communicate with these individuals privately.
To visit and contact siblings, family members, and relatives privately, unless prohibited by
court order, and to ask the court for visitation with the child’s siblings.
To make, send, and receive confidential telephone calls and other electronic communications,
and to send and receive unopened mail, unless prohibited by court order.
To have social contacts with people outside of the foster care system, including, but not
limited to, teachers, coaches, religious or spiritual community members, mentors, and
friends. If the child is an Indian child, to have the right to have contact with tribal members
and members of their Indian community consistent with the prevailing social and cultural
conditions and way of life of the Indian child’s tribe.
To attend religious services, activities, and ceremonies of the child’s choice, including, but not
limited to, engaging in traditional Native American religious practices.
To participate in extracurricular, cultural, racial, ethnic, personal enrichment, and social
activities, including, but not limited to, access to computer technology and the internet,
consistent with the child’s age, maturity, developmental level, sexual orientation, and gender
identity and expression.
WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
50
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WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
17
18
19
20
21
22
To have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and
benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or
perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual
orientation, gender identity and expression, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.
To have caregivers, child welfare and probation personnel, and legal counsel who have
received instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity relating to sexual orientation,
gender identity and expression, and best practices for providing adequate care to lesbian, gay,
bisexual, and transgender children in out-of-home care.
To be placed in out-of-home care according to their gender identity, regardless of the
gender or sex listed in their court, child welfare, medical, or vital records, to be referred to by
the child’s preferred name and gender pronoun, and to maintain privacy regarding sexual
orientation and gender identity and expression, unless the child permits the information
to be disclosed, or disclosure is required to protect their health and safety, or disclosure is
compelled by law or a court order.
To have child welfare and probation personnel and legal counsel who have received
instruction on the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.) and on
cultural competency and sensitivity relating to, and best practices for, providing adequate
care to Indian children in out-of-home care.
To have recognition of the child’s political aliation with an Indian tribe or Alaskan village,
including a determination of the child’s membership or citizenship in an Indian tribe or
Alaskan village; to receive assistance in becoming a member of an Indian tribe or Alaskan
village in which the child is eligible for membership or citizenship; to receive all benefits and
privileges that flow from membership or citizenship in an Indian tribe or Alaskan village; and
to be free from discrimination based on the child’s political aliation with an Indian tribe or
Alaskan village.
(A) To access and receive medical, dental, vision, mental health, and substance use disorder
services, and reproductive and sexual health care, with reasonable promptness that meets
the needs of the child, to have diagnoses and services explained in an understandable
manner, and to participate in decisions regarding health care treatment and services. This
right includes covered gender arming health care and gender arming mental health care,
and is subject to existing laws governing consent to health care for minors and nonminors
and does not limit, add, or otherwise affect applicable laws governing consent to health care.
(B) To view and receive a copy of their medical records to the extent they have the right to
consent to the treatment provided in the medical record and at no cost to the child until they
are 26 years of age.
WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
51
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WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
Except in an emergency, to be free of the administration of medication or chemical
substances, and to be free of all psychotropic medications unless prescribed by a physician,
and in the case of children, authorized by a judge, without consequences or retaliation. The
child has the right to consult with and be represented by counsel in opposing a request for
23
the administration of psychotropic medication and to provide input to the court about the
request to authorize medication. The child also has the right to report to the court the positive
and adverse effects of the medication and to request that the court reconsider, revoke, or
modify the authorization at any time.
(A) To have access to age-appropriate, medically accurate information about reproductive
health care, the prevention of unplanned pregnancy, and the prevention and treatment of
sexually transmitted infections.
(B) At any age, to consent to or decline services regarding contraception, pregnancy care, and
perinatal care, including, but not limited to, abortion services and health care services for
sexual assault without the knowledge or consent of any adult.
24
(C) At 12 years of age or older, to consent to or decline health care services to prevent, test for,
or treat sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, and mental health services, without the
consent or knowledge of any adult.
At 12 years of age or older, to choose, whenever feasible and in accordance with applicable law,
their own health care provider for medical, dental, vision, mental health, substance use disorder
services, and sexual and reproductive health care, if payment for the service is authorized
under applicable federal Medicaid law or other approved insurance, and to communicate with
that health care provider regarding any treatment concerns or needs and to request a second
opinion before being required to undergo invasive medical, dental, or psychiatric treatment.
25
To confidentiality of medical and mental health records, including, but not limited to, HIV
status, substance use disorder history and treatment, and sexual and reproductive health
care, consistent with existing law.
26
To attend school, to remain in the child’s school of origin, to immediate enrollment upon a
change of school, to partial credits for any coursework completed, and to priority enrollment
in preschool, afterschool programs, a California State University, and each community
college district, and to receive all other necessary educational supports and benefits, as
described in the Education Code.
27
To have access to existing information regarding the educational options available, including,
but not limited to, the coursework necessary for career, technical, and postsecondary
educational programs, and information regarding financial aid for postsecondary education,
and specialized programs for current and former foster children available at the University of
California, the California State University, and the California Community Colleges.
28
WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
52
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WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
To attend Independent Living Program classes and activities, if the child meets the age
requirements, and to not be prevented by caregivers from attending as a consequence
or punishment.
29
To maintain a bank account and manage personal income, consistent with the child’s age and
developmental level, unless prohibited by the case plan.
30
31
To work and develop job skills at an age-appropriate level, consistent with state law.
For children 14 to 17 years of age, inclusive, to receive a consumer credit report provided to the child
by the social worker or probation ocer on an annual basis from each of the three major credit
reporting agencies, and to receive assistance with interpreting and resolving any inaccuracies.
32
To be represented by an attorney in juvenile court; to have an attorney appointed to advise
the court of the child’s wishes, to advocate for the child’s protection, safety, and well-being,
and to investigate and report to the court on legal interests beyond the scope of the juvenile
proceeding; to speak to the attorney confidentially; and to request a hearing if the child feels
their appointed counsel is not acting in their best interest or adequately representing their
legal interests.
33
To receive a notice of court hearings, to attend court hearings, to speak to the judge, to view
and receive a copy of the court file, subject to existing federal and state confidentiality laws,
and to object to or request the presence of interested persons during court hearings. If the
child is an Indian child, to have a representative designated by the child’s Indian tribe be in
attendance during hearings.
34
35
To the confidentiality of all juvenile court records consistent with existing law.
To view and receive a copy of their child welfare records, juvenile court records, and
educational records at no cost to the child until the child is 26 years of age, subject to existing
federal and state confidentiality laws.
36
To be involved in the development of their own case plan, including placement decisions,
and plan for permanency. This involvement includes, but is not limited to, the development
of case plan elements related to placement and gender arming health care, with
consideration of the child’s gender identity. If the child is an Indian child, the case plan shall
include protecting the essential tribal relations and best interests of the Indian child by
assisting the child in establishing, developing, and maintaining political, cultural, and social
relationships with the child’s Indian tribe and Indian community.
37
WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
53
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WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
To review the child’s own case plan and plan for permanent placement if the child is 10 years
of age or older, and to receive information about their out-of-home placement and case plan,
including being told of changes to the plan.
38
To request and participate in a child and family team meeting, as follows:
(A) Within 60 days of entering foster care, and every 6 months thereafter.
(B) If placed in a short-term residential therapeutic program, or receiving intensive home-
based services or intensive case coordination, or receiving therapeutic foster care services, to
have a child and family team meeting at least every 90 days.
(C) To request additional child and family team meetings to address concerns, including, but
not limited to, placement disruption, change in service needs, addressing barriers to sibling or
family visits, and addressing diculties in coordinating services.
(D) To have both informal and formal support people participate, consistent with state law.
39
To be informed of these rights in an age and developmentally appropriate manner by the
social worker or probation ocer and to be provided a copy of the rights in this section at the
time of placement, any placement change, and at least once every six months or at the time
of a regularly scheduled contact with the social worker or probation ocer.
40
To be provided with contact information for the Community Care Licensing Division of the
State Department of Social Services, the tribal authority approving a tribally approved home,
and the State Foster Care Ombudsperson, at the time of each placement, and to contact any
or all of these oces immediately upon request regarding violations of rights, to speak to
representatives of these oces confidentially, and to be free from threats or punishment for
making complaints.
(b) The rights described in this section are broad expressions of the rights of children in foster
care and are not exhaustive of all rights set forth in the United States Constitution and the
California Constitution, federal and California statutes, and case law.
41
(c) This section does not require, and shall not be interpreted to require, a foster care provider
to take any action that would impair the health and safety of children in out-of-home
placement.
(d) The State Department of Social Services and each county welfare department are
encouraged to work with the Student Aid Commission, the University of California, the
California State University, and the California Community Colleges to receive information
pursuant to paragraph (28) of subdivision (a).
WIC 16001.9 – Legal Language About Your Rights
54
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
Important Contacts
Mother: _______________________________
Address: _____
_________________________
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Father: _______________________________
Address: ______________________________
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Foster Parent: __________________________
Address: ______________________________
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Caseworker:
___________________________
______________________________
Address:
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Caseworker’s Supervisor:
________________
______________________________
Address:
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Independent Living Caseworker:
Address: ______________________________
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Therapist:
____________________________
_____________________________
Address: _
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Sibling: _______________________________
Address: ______________________________
_____________________________________
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Sibling: _______________________________
Address: ______________________________
_____________________________________
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Sibling: _______________________________
Address: ______________________________
_____________________________________
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Attorney: ______________________________
Address: ______________________________
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Health Care Provider:
Address:
______________________________
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Guidance Counselor:
____________________
___________________________
Address: ___
Phone Number: ________________________
Email:
________________________________
Mentor: _______________________________
Address: ______________________________
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
Adult Supporter/Other: __________________
Address: ______________________________
Phone Number: ________________________
Email: ________________________________
55
1
3
JV-218
Child's Opinion About the Medicine
Clerk stamps date here when form is filed.
You may use this form to tell the judge what you think about the medicine that
a doctor wants you to take.
You do not have to use this form if you do not want to. There are other ways to
tell the judge how you feel. You can:
•
Talk to the judge at a hearing or write the judge a letter, or
•
Ask your lawyer, social worker, probation officer, or CASA to tell the
judge how you feel.
You may ask someone you trust to help you read and fill out this form. And
you may add as many pages as you need. If you add extra pages, please put
your name and the number of the question you are answering on each extra
page.
Your name:
2
(first)
(middle)
(last)
Your date of birth:
(month)
(day)
(year)
Answer these questions about this medicine:
Do you know that a doctor wants you to take a medicine?
Fill in court name and street address:
Superior Court of California, County of
Fill in child's name and date of birth:
Child's Name:
Date of Birth:
Court fills in case number when form is filed.
Case Number:
Yes No Not sure
4
5
6
Do you know the name and dose of the medicine the doctor wants you to take?
Yes No Not sure
Have you taken this medicine before?
Yes No Not sure
Do you want more information before you decide if you want to take it?
If yes, what do you want to know?
Yes No
7
8
Did anyone tell you how the medicine is supposed to help you?
Yes No Not sure
Did anyone explain the possible side effects?
If yes, what did they say?
Yes No Not sure
9
What is your opinion about taking the medicine?
Judicial Council of California, www.courts.ca.gov
JV-218, Page 1 of 3
Child's Opinion About the Medicine
New July 1, 2016, Optional Form
Welfare and Institutions Code, § 369.5
California Rules of Court, rule 5.640
56
Case Number:
Child's name:
10
Yes No Not sure
Do you agree to take the medicine?
Explain your answer here, if you want to:
Questions about you
None
List any other treatment or therapy you are doing now:
Individual talk therapy
Group talk therapy Counseling at school
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT or practicing behaviors)
Other (list any other treatment here):
Family therapy
Art or play therapy
11
12
What do you like to do for fun?
13
What activities would you like to be involved in now?
14
Say anything else about yourself or the medicine that you want the judge to know.
For a 17-Year Old Youth ONLY
If you are under 17, skip to the next question.
When you turn 18,
a.
Will you be able to keep the doctor you have now?
b.
Will you know how to get this medicine if you want to keep taking it?
Yes No
Yes No
Not sure
Not sure
New July 1, 2016
Child's Opinion About the Medicine
JV-218, Page 2 of 3
15
57
16
Case Number:
Child's name:
For a child taking this medicine now
If you are NOT taking this medicine now, skip to the next question.
Do you have any side effects from the medicine?
If Yes, check below:
Weight gain Weight loss
Problems sleeping Feeling very sleepy
Headache
Nausea
Yes No
Constipation
Feel dizzy
Other (list any other side effects here):
17
I you have side effects, did you tell your doctor?
18
NoYes
:
Yes
my probation officer my caregiver my lawyer
If Yes, your doctor's name
Did someone help you with this form?
No
If Yes, who?
my social worker my CASA
Other (explain):
Check here if you are going to add extra pages to this form. And say how many pages:
Date:
Child signs here
Type or print child's name
Helper signs here
Type or print name of other person who helped child fill out form
New July 1, 2016
Child's Opinion About the Medicine
JV-218, Page 3 of 3
Foster Youth Rights Handbook Signature Page
YOUTH COPY
Each youth age 14 and older will receive a Foster Youth Rights Handbook. The CSW or Probation
ofcer must review the handbook with the youth in a manner that the youth can understand.
My social worker/probation ofcer gave me this handbook and told me about my
rights in a way I understand.
Youth Signature Date Received
Social Worker/Probation Ofcer Date Received
Foster Youth Rights Handbook Signature Page
CASE PLAN COPY
Each youth age 14 and older will receive a Foster Youth Rights Handbook. The CSW or Probation
ofcer must review the handbook with the youth in a manner that the youth can understand.
My social worker/probation ofcer gave me this handbook and told me about my
rights in a way I understand.
Youth Signature Date Received
Social Worker/Probation Ofcer Date Received
58
59
Questions /Notes
60
Questions /Notes
61
Questions /Notes
62
LEARN MORE AT
LA
LA
YOUTHRIGHTS.
YOUTHRIGHTS.
C
C
OM
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