What is Family Reunification?
When the court determines if the abuse, mistreatment or neglect put the child at risk of harm, then the parent will have anywhere from six to eighteen months to reunify with the child. Numerous review hearings may be held and the purpose of most hearings is to check on the progress of the parents’ reunification efforts and determine what is the next step. To be successful at reunifying with the child the parent must complete any programs ordered and regularly visit with the child. Such programs typically include counseling to address problems related to parenting skills, anger management, or substance abuse. In many cases, the plan may provide parents with guidelines to follow to remedy circumstances that led to removing their child.
