First, it provides for immediate access to legal services lawyers' expertise in civil law while ensuring a ready supply of case referrals and criminal law proficiency from public defenders. Second, the collaborative model avoids unnecessary competition for limited resources. Funders look favorably on such alliances and enhanced coordination of existing resources. TeamChild's offices are located at public defender offices and legal services offices, with some space even donated by county juvenile courts. Referrals TeamChild trains public defenders to recognize potential civil legal issues in their clients' lives.
Defenders representing juvenile offenders are the first line of referral to the project.
Probation officers and judges also refer cases to TeamChild. Ideally, cases are referred to TeamChild early in a juvenile's case. The TeamChild advocate makes an initial assessment as to whether a referral is appropriate, and then meets with the youth, developing an attorney-client relationship. Clients, who in most cases are juveniles, help guide the direction of the case. Not only is this required by the rules of professional conduct, but it is also the most effective way to work with teenagers.