Plain English Breakdown
The official text states the court finds if a transfer is in the best interest 'as specified' but does not list those specific factors in this summary.
Changing Counties for Nonminor Dependents
This law allows courts to move a nonminor dependent's case to the county where they live if the youth requests it and the court finds the transfer is in their best interest.
What This Bill Does
- Allows courts to change a nonminor dependent's residence to a new county where they live based on a request from the youth, provided the court finds the move is in the youth's best interest.
- Requires judges to issue an order transferring the case within 30 court days after receiving the request.
- States that the new county gains control over the case 10 calendar days after the judge signs the transfer order.
- Requires courts during certain review hearings to consider whether a nonminor dependent wants to move their case to a different county.
Who It Names or Affects
- Nonminor dependents who are living in foster care and wish to change counties.
- Juvenile courts that handle cases for children and young adults under the Welfare and Institutions Code.
- Counties where nonminor dependents currently live or want to move their legal case.
Terms To Know
- Nonminor dependent
- A person over age 18 who is still under the care of the foster system and has a court-appointed social worker.
- Jurisdiction
- The legal power or authority that a specific county's court holds to make decisions about a case.
- Review hearing
- A scheduled meeting in court where judges check on the progress and needs of a young person in foster care.
Limits and Unknowns
- The law does not specify what exact factors courts must use to decide if a transfer is in the best interest of the youth.
- This new rule only applies when the nonminor dependent asks for the move; it does not allow counties or agencies to force a move without consent.