Frequently, this agency is located within larger public social services agencies, such as Departments of Social Services or Human Services. These might include mandatory participation by a parent in a drug abuse treatment program or a parenting skills class or regular supervision by a caseworker. These hearings must be held between 24 and 72 hours of any emergency placement, depending on State law, once an emergency custody order has been issued. Usually this person considers the best interest of the child and may perform a variety of roles, including those of independent investigator, advocate, advisor, and guardian for the child. In general, good faith applies if any reasonable person, given the same information, would draw a conclusion that a child may have been abused or neglected.
Immunity is provided as long as the report is made in good faith.
This protection also applies to those who make decisions to petition the court. If the basis for the decision is based on good faith, immunity applies. These courts specialize in areas such as child maltreatment, domestic violence, juvenile delinquency, divorce, child custody, and child support. These teams may also be designated by different names, including child protection teams, interdisciplinary teams, or case consultation teams. The petition contains the essential allegations of abuse or neglect that make up the petitioner's complaint about a particular child's situation.