Several barriers to permanency exist that can delay the dependency process and leave children in temporary foster care for extended periods. Check out this Dependency Practice Tip infographic to learn more about the common barriers to achieving permanency.
2025 Judicial Community of Practice Series

Registration for the 2025 Judicial Community of Practice (JCoP) Series is now open. JCoP is a monthly, virtual peer-learning opportunity for judicial officers who hear child dependency cases and related family law matters. Registration is limited to Superior Court and Tribal Court judicial officers (i.e., Judges and Court Commissioners). Click the image on the left to register.
Fact-Finding Dependency Practice Tip
Understanding State Public Health Guidance on High-Potency Synthetic Opioids in Child Dependency Cases
In re Dependency of Baby Boy B.
Filed August 29, 2024 Supreme Court: Requires superior courts to hold review hearings every 30 days as long as a child is in shelter care.
In re the Matter of the Dependency of A.H., L.L., and S.O.-W.
Filed August 29, 2024 Supreme Court: Addresses the requirements for seeking appellate review in cases arising under Title 13 RCW.
New Guidance on Harms of Removal to Infants (0-1 years old)

Over the past year, the Harm of Removal Workgroup has been working to create guidance for courts on the likely harms of removal that children experience across the different stages of child development. This document takes an in-depth look at the specific harms that infants (0-1 years old) are likely to experience when removed from their home by child welfare.
In the Matter of the Dependency of Z.A., S.M.A., and S.A.A.
Filed: August 22, 2024 Supreme Court: Regarding the legal standard for out-of-home placement following a finding of dependency, court determinations of dependency and court-ordered services, and cultural and racial bias in dependency proceedings.
Supporting Transitions for Infants & Young Children Practice Tip
In Matter of the Welfare of C.J.J.I.
Filed August 22, 2024 Court of Appeals, Div III: Regarding the burden of the State to demonstrate Active Efforts at all hearings where the State is seeking removal or continued out-of-home placement of a child qualifying under ICWA/WICWA.