Legal Advocacy for Youth

We provide direct legal representation for youth in the child welfare system to empower them to be decision makers in their own lives.

Direct Representation Program

Child Advocates is the only organization in Indiana with Direct Representation services that provide a free, in-house attorney to older youth in the child welfare system. Our attorneys are experienced in working with older youth and well-versed in child welfare laws. In addition, the program connects youth with a Support Advocate who is well-informed regarding available therapeutic services, community-based mentoring organizations, residential facility programs, and ways to ensure a child’s medical needs are met.

If you know of a child in a CHINS (Child in Need of Services) and TPR (Termination of Parental Rights) case who would like an attorney, is currently removed from their home, and is 12 years of age or older, please go to this link to make a confidential referral.

Direct Representation Referral Form

Why do children need lawyers?

Attorneys are guaranteed to parents and the Department of Child Services, but not guaranteed to the most important person…the child. By providing youth with attorneys of their own, the Direct Representation Program gives children the opportunity to take control of their own lives. We amplify their voices in the courtroom and during case planning meetings. Making life decisions is one of the most important life skills for young people and a basic right that all of them deserve to experience.

For all additional questions, please contact the Director of the Direct Representation Program, Rachel Vilensky, at rachel@childadvocates.net.

Did you know?

Indiana is currently one of 14 states that does not guarantee legal representation to youth in the child welfare system.

In Indiana, the one person at the center of a child welfare case… the child… is the one who is not guaranteed a lawyer.

Between 2015 and 2019, the time youth spent in the system increased by 43%, with youth waiting a median time of 620 days to be placed in a permanent placement.

According to the National Association of Counsel for Children, youth in the child welfare system represented by specially trained lawyers are 40% more likely to leave the foster care system and find permanency within the first 6 months.