How to Get a Lawyer?

The court will appoint a lawyer to represent the parents. If they cannot afford the lawyer's fee, the court provides legal representation without charge. Information regarding how to contact the attorney will be included on the notice of Preliminary Protective Hearing delivered by the DCS Specialist within 24 hours after the dependency petition is filed. The parents may consult with the lawyer at any time and have the lawyer represent them at all hearings concerning the children and their parental rights. Any disagreements with DCS may also be discussed with the lawyer.

If parents have not requested an attorney before the Preliminary Protective Hearing, or Initial Dependency Hearing, they may make this request at the hearing or at any other time during court involvement.