How much time do I have to get my child back from protective custody?

Federal and state laws require Social Services to find a safe, appropriate and permanent home for a child who is in foster care. The court decides if a child will be returned to the parent or placed for adoption, permanent guardianship or permanent custody with a relative within 12 months after the child is placed into protective custody.

There is a presumption that parental rights should be terminated and the child placed for adoption if the child that has been in foster care for 14 out of the last 20 months.

Because of time limits, it is very important for you to:

- Maintain contact with your social worker; - Develop a case plan; - Participate in services; and - Show the court that you have made substantial progress in your case plan to ensure that it is safe and appropriate to return your child home.