Do minute orders memorializing the Title IV-E findings need to be signed by the judicial officer hearing the case?
There is a clear directive from the Federal Administration for Children and Families (ACF) requiring a judges signature on the findings and orders made at the removal hearing. (See ACF Information Memorandum No. ACYF-CB-IM-00-09, p. 2, question 11.) There has not been a specific directive issued as to six-month review hearings, permanent plan hearings, and postpermanency review hearings; however, it is the best practice and recommended that the judicial officer sign all findings and orders.
Related Questions
- Do minute orders memorializing the Title IV-E findings need to be signed by the judicial officer hearing the case?
- What is the timetable for the hearing officer to issue findings of fact, conclusions of law, and recommendations?
- Is there a timeframe that the order must be signed by the judge to be eligible for Title IV-E funding?
