A juvenile dependency case involves an accusation of abuse and neglect of a child. You have to right to be represented by a lawyer, and so does your child. If you are financially unable to acquire a lawyer for yourself, you can ask the court to appoint one to you. Your child will also be given a lawyer or a Court Appointed Special Advocate for their case unless the court believe that it wouldn't be beneficial.
There will be steps to take to procede with your juvenile dependency case before it is completely settled. The courts want what's best for the child and will try to get these cases put to rights as soon as possible and the court will explain everything you'll need to do and when you need to do them by.
If it is decided that your child will becomes a 'dependent of the court', the judge on your case will be able to make orders that are all in the best interest of your child, for his/her safety and his/her physical/emotional well being. These orders can be either that your child return home with you but must be under court supervision, or that your child be removed from your household to live in another home, again, with court supervision. You could possibly lose your child if they become a dependent of the court and if reunification has failed or was never recommended.
A social worker will be able to help you if you have questions about the court process but will not be able to provide any legal advice. For that it's best to contact a lawyer in your area as these kinds of cases are very important to both you and your child's future together.
