Section 300 Dependency Youth

Dependency Youth are youth who have been abused, neglected, and/or abandoned pursuant to Section 300 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

Youth and family may be involved with Children and Family Services for the several reasons. The Dependency process begins:

• When a parent is unwilling to provide care
• When someone reports suspected child abuse or neglect
• When a youth is left without support as a result of parents incarceration or institutionalization

300 Dependency Process

An Investigation is completed by the Family and Children Services Department. A referral could be made to the Dependency Court, and your child may need to appear in Dependency Court.

Dual Jurisdiction

A youth is a dependent under 300 W&I (a youth involved with Children and Family Services) and a Ward of the Court under 602 W&I (a youth who has committed a crime). The goal of dual jurisdiction is to provide services that are in the best interest of the youth and to ensure the protection and safety of the youth/community. Family and Children Services or Probation will take the lead on the youth’s case.

Crisis Resolution Center

The Crisis Resolution Center provides services to pre-delinquent youth and their families through a collaborative and integrated multi-disciplinary approach. The intent is to provide services to youth who are runaways, truants, beyond parental control, and youth who are at risk for committing law violations. The Crisis Resolution Center provides short-term shelter care, crisis intervention counseling, and follow up outreach services.

Contact the Crisis Resolution Center.

Crisis Resolution Center Services

• Community service referrals
• Diversion/prevention services
• Family reunification
• Functional Family Therapy
• Runaway shelter