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toolbox
this is where you start.
We’re committed to you, and will be there right beside you cheering you on if you’ll let us. We plan to establish more resources for YOU, because we’re in this together.
PARENTS’ RIGHTS
From Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
You have the right to…
• Have parenting time with your child(ren), unless the court orders
otherwise. You can see your child(ren) at least once every seven days at a
place and time arranged by you and your foster care worker.
• Have an attorney. If you cannot pay for an attorney, the court will arrange
for one to be provided for you.
• Admit or deny the allegations against you. Your attorney will help you
understand your choices.
• Be notified about and attend all court hearings.
• Have an interpreter if you cannot speak or understand English, or if you are deaf.
• Have reasonable accommodations made for you to attend hearings if you
have a disability.
• Understand what you must do before your child(ren) can return home. (In
some serious cases, there may not be a plan for your child(ren) to return home.)
• Request and receive copies of all CPS and foster care reports.
• Receive services to help you correct the problems that caused your
child(ren) to be placed in foster care.
• Be included in important decisions regarding your child(ren)’s care, such
as your child(ren)’s medical treatment, education, religious training, etc.
• Be involved in the regular medical and dental care of your child(ren) and
approve any surgery that your child(ren) need.
• Send and receive mail from your child(ren).
• Have your concerns or complaints listened to and responded to by the DHS
representatives (such as CPS worker, foster care worker, supervisors).
Parents’ Responsibilities
It is your responsibility to . . .
• Correct the problems that caused your child(ren) to be placed in foster
care.
• Keep your scheduled parenting time so you do not disappoint your
child(ren).
• Provide information that will help care for your child(ren), such as
your child(ren)’s medical history, including any illnesses, accidents and
immunizations, sleeping and eating habits, favorite toys.
• Keep all scheduled appointments with your foster care worker and other
people involved in your case.
• Report any changes in your address and phone number to your foster care
worker and your attorney.
• Participate in school conferences and other meetings that concern your
child(ren), whenever possible.
• Share your concerns. Let your foster care worker or attorney know if you
do not understand what is happening or if you have a complaint.