Juvenile Dependency Settlement Conferences

Juvenile dependency cases involve sensitive and challenging issues of child safety and well-being.   The outcomes of these cases affect our County’s children, families, and communities.  Although not required by law, the Office of County Counsel routinely engages in formal and informal dependency settlement conferences.  The goal of a dependency settlement conference is to reduce conflict and increase family engagement while prioritizing the safety and well-being of the child.  Resolution at settlement conferences equates to fewer trials and more continuity for families and children. 

The chart shows the number of new cases opened, cases that went to trial, and settlement conferences per year. It is preferred that cases are sent to a settlement conference. 

Our goal is to increase the amount of settlement conferences by 2% per year.