Your Voice in Court

Experience and Compassion for Effective Solutions

Practice Areas

Grays Harbor County

Pacific County

Mason County

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ROLES OF YOUR ATTORNEY

01

Legal Representation

It is our role to assist you with getting your needs met, in and out of the courtroom.

02

Help Understanding Process

The dependency process can be complex, with many moving pieces.

03

Communication

When communication is difficult, it helps to have someone willing to talk to all parties and work on solutions.

Frequently Asked
Questions

What is Dependency?

Dependency is when the Department of Children, Youth, and Families temporarily steps into the role of parent, to allow your parents time to address difficulties they may be having.

What should I expect?

You can expect regular contact from social workers, your attorney, and regular court dates to make sure your needs are being met.

Why do I have an attorney?

Any youth in Washington over the age of 8 is entitled to legal counsel if they are in a dependency. Their attorney is responsible for making sure that their voice is heard, both in and out of court.

Who decides which attorney I get?

Attorneys are appointed by the court, based on who is approved and available to represent youth. All youth attorneys are vetted and contacted via the Office of Civil Legal Aid, through the state of Washington

What does my attorney do?

It is your attorney’s responsibility to keep in touch with you, your social worker, and the attorneys representing your parents or other parties to assist in making sure you are getting what you need, and that the court understands and considers your position on key decisions.

How long will all this take?

Dependency can be minimally invasive in your life, allowing you to remain in home with your parents while they, and sometimes you, have access to classes and services to help make your life better. Sometimes, you will be removed from your home. Because each case is different, they can last anywhere from 6 months to several years.