Children's Code

The act governs the state's legal framework for children and youth who come before the courts, covering child protection, out-of-home placement, and the services provided to children and their families. It establishes court jurisdiction over these matters and sets out the procedures that apply — hearings, the right to counsel, magistrates, appeals, social studies and reports, and protective mechanisms such as emergency protection orders and search warrants issued for a child's safety. It also provides for representation of the child's interests through guardians ad litem and court-appointed special advocate programs, assigns responsibility for placement and care and its funding, and directs preventive and stabilization services for families, including compliance with federal requirements governing Indian children.

Editorial summary generated from the text of this act. It is not part of the statute — read the sections below for the operative language.