What is the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA)?
ICWA is a Federal law designed to protect the best interests of Native American children and to promote the stability and security of Indian tribes and Indian families. This act controls any matters surrounding child custody and requires the tribe be notified if the child is being placed outside the home for guardianship, foster care, or adoption, even if the placement is made by the birth parent. If there is the possibility that a child you are caring for may have Indian blood or Indian parents, it is VERY important that you contact an attorney who has experience in this area.
