Jurisdiction in dependency court cannot be waived, assumed, or overlooked. Without a valid, fact-supported petition, courts have no authority to intrude on family life. Here's why proper scrutiny at the outset of proceedings is critical to protecting constitutional rights.
In Pennsylvania, Child and Youth Services (CYS) must follow strict legal standards before launching an investigation. Here's what triggers their authority—and why these protections are critical for families.
Can the government take your child without evidence of immediate danger? This article explains the constitutional protections that safeguard parental rights.