BEST PRACTICES: IN-COURT ADVOCACY

Below are some factors for a CIP to consider in determining whether an attorney is providing quality legal representation through their courtroom advocacy. CIPs should be looking for whether the attorney, independently:

• develops and incorporates a unifying case theory and theme
• comes to court prepared and on time
• develops and advocates for a clear position on all relevant issues
• files reports and motions
• requests court orders regarding services, family time, and permanency
• makes arguments about reasonable efforts (to prevent removal and/or towards reunification/the permanency goal)
• participates fully in trial:
• calls, questions, and cross-examines lay and expert witnesses
• introduces evidence
• makes objections
• delivers opening statements and closing arguments