E. The Role for Judges in Community-Based Care

The role for judges in all aspects of community-based care cannot be overstated. Judges are a critical partner in planning, implementation, and oversight of this model for provision of child welfare services and permanency. Judges are encouraged to work closely with DFPS and the Office of Community-Based Care Transition (OCBCT) as CBC expands into a community area where their court is located as well as to be in continued communications with all partners as Stage I is implemented. Stage II more directly impacts the courts. Judicial oversight remains critical both in legacy and CBC areas to ensure due process for children and families. This oversight includes ongoing communication with the SSCC to clarify roles and expectations, streamline required court and legal processes, and resolve any issues. As the process evolves, these children and families will be well-served by judges who remain informed about the ever-changing landscape of CBC.