Parents involved in a case of child neglect or abuse should be aware of their rights under law:

• A parent may choose a lawyer to represent them. If a parent cannot afford to hire a lawyer, the judge will appoint one. It is the parent’s responsibility to maintain contact with the lawyer.
• A parent may participate in court hearings in order to understand what is happening and what is being said. A parent can offer information about what occurred.
• A parent should receive a written notice (called a summons) informing them of the date, time and location of any mandatory court hearings.
• A parent should receive a written statement (called a petition) explaining the charges. The petition is usually included with the summons.
• A parent can offer evidence and/or have witnesses provide evidence on their behalf.
• A parent or his or her attorney may question anyone who presents information before the judge.
• A parent is entitled to know the contents of their court file and the report given to the court.
• A parent whose child was removed from the home should be informed of the requirements to have the child returned and how to get help to do so.
• A parent has the right to receive assistance from a language or sign interpreter if a language other than English is spoken or if the parent is hearing-impaired.
• A parent whose child has been removed from the home has the right to see the child at least once a week unless the judge waives that right. The visits may be supervised by a caseworker.
• A parent may request a continuance if they are unprepared for the hearing.
• A parent should expect to receive a copy of the judge’s written decision.
• A parent who disagrees with the judge’s decision can appeal the ruling, and the case will be presented to a higher court.

Children in juvenile court cases will have their own lawyer. The judge will appoint an adult, usually a lawyer, as a “guardian ad litem,” to represent them. Parents cannot use the children’s lawyer, nor can the child use the parents’ lawyer.

Note: This information was prepared as a public service by the Illinois State Bar Association and is a joint project with the Illinois Press Association. Its purpose is to inform citizens of their legal rights and obligations.