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Frequently Asked Questions

Legal

What is guardianship?

With respect to a minor, Guardianship means the duty and authority to make important decisions in matters affecting the child. You can find more information in regards to Guardianship and DCS you can visit the DCS Policy Manual website here.

What are my rights as a foster parent?

You can find foster parents' rights here: https://www.azleg.gov/viewdocument/?docName=https://www.azleg.gov/ars/8/00530.htm

What are a foster child's rights?

You can find foster children's rights here: https://www.azleg.gov/ars/8/00529.htm

What decisions can a Title 8 guardian make?

A guardian is assigned the care, custody and supervision of a child by the court. This means the guardian has rights and responsibilities in making important decisions affecting the life of a child.

What is mandated reporting and am I a mandated reporter?

Mandated reporters are defined in Arizona statute. You can find the applicable law here: https://www.azleg.gov/ars/13/03620.htm

What is a guardianship subsidy?

Guardianship subsidy is a monthly payment to the guardian to help with the expenses of caring for the child.

Who should I call to report suspected maltreatment?

You call the DCS Hotline at 1-888-SOS-CHILD or 1-888-767-2445

How long does Title 8 Guardianship subsidy last?

Guardian subsidy lasts until the child turns 18 or if the guardianship is terminated or the child no longer resides with the guardian.

When should I make a report?

DCS encourages you to make a report any time you reasonably suspect a child has been abused or neglected.

What supports are available to children under Title 8 Guardianship?

Cash assistance
AHCCCS (if eligible)
Behavioral health services (if eligible)

What questions do I ask if I suspect abuse/neglect?

If the information has not been volunteered, ask the child ONLY these four questions:

What happened?
Who did this to you?
Where were you when this happened?
When did this happen?

Can guardianship be undone?

Yes, a judge may revoke a guardianship.

What are my rights regarding visitation?

The Department shall facilitate frequent parenting time and ongoing contact between a child in out-of-home care and the child’s parents, siblings not placed together, relatives, friends, and other individuals with significant relationships to the child to preserve and enhance relationships with, and attachments to, the family and culture of origin. This contact may be restricted or denied only when a court finds that parenting time or contact is contrary to the child’s safety or well-being. You can find more information by visiting the DCS Policy Manual website here.

Can I become a DCS licensed foster home if I have guardianship?

No, once you have guardianship, you cannot become a licensed foster home for that child.

What are my rights regarding Team Decision making (TDM) meetings?

The purpose of a TDM meeting is to engage the family in decisions about the safety, stability, and permanency of a child at critical points in a case. The meeting is a collaboration between the Department, parents, guardians and/or custodians, child(ren), extended family and kin, family support persons, and service providers. You can find more information by visiting the DCS Policy Manual website here.

Arizona Department of Child Safety