Massachusetts S71 aims to minimize trauma to children and families by expediting court approval for child custody cases.

Massachusetts S71 seeks to minimize trauma to children and families by expediting the process for obtaining court approval when the Department of Children and Families takes custody of a child. The bill mandates that the department must obtain judicial approval within four hours, providing a sworn affidavit or oath to the court. If the juvenile court is closed, any justice acting under specific provisions can grant relief. The bill also requires the department to report quarterly on the number of cases where custody was taken without prior court approval, broken down by area office.

Massachusetts S71 aims to minimize trauma to children and families by expediting court approval for child custody cases.

Massachusetts S71 seeks to minimize trauma to children and families by expediting the process for obtaining court approval when the Department of Children and Families takes custody of a child. The bill mandates that the department must obtain judicial approval within four hours, providing a sworn affidavit or oath to the court. If the juvenile court is closed, any justice acting under specific provisions can grant relief. The bill also requires the department to report quarterly on the number of cases where custody was taken without prior court approval, broken down by area office.