The Two Worlds Of Legal Representation
During a virtual town hall last week, parents asked gut-wrenching questions to child welfare leadership: “When can I see my kids again?” “I was having unsupervised visits with them. Why can’t they come live with me?” “Will the court terminate my rights even if I can’t get services?” The pain and fear underlying each question was obvious. Throughout the meeting, I resisted the urge to simply reassure each parent that things will be okay, and that everyone in the system would be empathetic to these concerns. I felt myself dreaming of the system I wished I had, only to remind myself of the system I actually have. Instead, I responded with a rote answer, “Call your lawyer. This is the time that they need to be fighting for you more than ever. This is why they are there.” Then I got the question I dread most. “I can’t reach my lawyer. He won’t return my calls. What should I do?” My heart sank. The professional assigned with the sole responsibility to advocate for a parent i