Dependency
Judicial Citizen Review PanelsDependency TermsCASA Court Appointed Special AdvocateDivision of Family and Children ServicesPrivate Dependency Cases
The juvenile dependency court is a court of law that focuses on the special needs of children and families. Juvenile deprivation court hears cases involving children who have allegedly been abused, neglected, or inadequately cared for. The definitions concerning dependency court can be found at O.C.G.A. §15-11-2 (22).
Unlike delinquency or status offender proceedings (where the principal focus is on the conduct of the minor), dependency court proceedings are to ensure the safety and well-being of children. The law states the juvenile court has an obligation to protect minors within its jurisdiction.