Guidance for parents and families
Washington dependency cases
The dependency system moves quickly and uses unfamiliar language. This guide gives you a place to begin.
Start with the part you need today. You do not have to read everything at once.
I
Not every case follows the same path. Some steps happen together, some are contested, and local scheduling differs. This is the basic sequence.
01
DCYF may file a dependency petition when it believes court involvement is needed to protect a child. The petition must state why DCYF believes the child meets Washington law’s definition of a dependent child.
02
If a child has been removed, or DCYF is asking to remove the child, the court holds a shelter care hearing. The main question is whether the child can safely return home while the case is pending.
03
At fact-finding, the court decides whether the allegations are proved and whether the child is dependent under Washington law. A case may be resolved by agreement or through a contested hearing.
04
If the court finds the child dependent, it enters a disposition order. The order may address where the child lives, services, visitation, and what must happen before the case can close.
05
The court returns to the case at review and permanency hearings. It considers placement, family time, services, barriers, progress, DCYF efforts, and the plan for a safe and permanent home.
06
Many cases end after a child returns home and the court dismisses the dependency. Other cases may end through guardianship, adoption, or a separate proceeding about termination of parental rights.
II
You do not need to read every statute to participate in your case. These are the main starting points for understanding what the court is applying.
Each entry below begins with our plain-language explanation. Use the link at the end of the entry to read the complete, current text on the official Washington government website. The official text controls if a summary is incomplete or unclear.
Chapter 13.34 RCW
Plain-language explanation
This is the main Washington chapter governing dependency cases. It covers the definition of dependency, shelter care, fact-finding, disposition, review, permanency, guardianship, and termination proceedings. Different sections apply at different stages.
Read the complete official textRCW 13.34.030
Plain-language explanation
This section defines terms used throughout the chapter, including “dependent child.” The court must apply the legal definition to the evidence; an agency label or concern by itself is not the final dependency decision.
Read the complete official textRCW 13.34.065
Plain-language explanation
When removal is at issue, this section requires a prompt hearing. The main question is whether the child can immediately and safely return home while the case is pending. It also addresses the removal standard, possible relative or suitable-person placements, and early visitation.
Read the complete official textRCW 13.34.090
Plain-language explanation
This section gives parties the right to a lawyer, to offer evidence, to be heard, to examine witnesses, and to receive a decision based on the hearing evidence from an unbiased fact finder. It also addresses appointed counsel and access to certain records.
Read the complete official textRCW 13.34.110
Plain-language explanation
This section governs the hearing where the court decides whether the allegations are proved and the child meets the legal definition of dependency. The petitioner carries the burden of proof.
Read the complete official textRCW 13.34.130
Plain-language explanation
After a dependency finding, this section addresses whether the child remains at home or is placed elsewhere, which services may be ordered, and how relatives and other suitable caregivers are considered.
Read the complete official textJuvenile Court Rules
Plain-language explanation
These statewide procedural rules explain how shelter care, dependency petitions, fact-finding, disposition, review, guardianship, and termination proceedings are handled in court. Counties may also have local rules.
Read the complete official textChapter 13.38 RCW
Plain-language explanation
This chapter adds important protections when an Indian child is involved, including rules about notice, tribal participation, active efforts, placement, and the evidence required for removal or termination.
Read the complete official textIII
Rights can depend on the stage of the case and the order before the court. These are important rights to discuss with your lawyer.
If you do not understand a document, hearing, service request, or court order, say so. Asking for an explanation is part of participating in your case.
01
A parent has the right to be represented at every stage. If the parent cannot afford a lawyer and qualifies financially, the court appoints one.
02
A parent has the right to know about the case and hearings, to be heard, to offer evidence, and to question witnesses through counsel.
03
The court’s decision must be based on the evidence presented to an unbiased judge or commissioner.
04
When removal is at issue, a parent has the right to a shelter care hearing and to understand the rights being given up before waiving that hearing.
05
A parent can identify relatives and other suitable people who may be able to care for the child. The court must consider the placement rules in Washington law.
06
When a child is placed outside the home after shelter care, the court generally orders regular, individualized visitation aimed at the greatest safe parent-child contact possible.
07
Parents and their lawyers have rights to receive certain DCYF records and other discoverable information under Washington law.
08
Federal and Washington Indian child welfare laws may add notice, placement, evidence, and active-efforts protections.
IV
These short answers are a starting point. Open each question and write down anything you want to discuss with your lawyer.
No. A dependency case and a termination case are different proceedings. A dependency finding gives the court authority to make orders about safety, placement, services, and visitation. Termination requires a separate petition and additional legal findings.
Parents have the right to counsel at every stage of a dependency proceeding. If you cannot afford a lawyer and meet the financial requirements, the court appoints one. Ask the court immediately if you do not have counsel.
The court considers whether your child can safely return home while the dependency petition is pending. The court may also address services, relatives or other suitable caregivers, and a visitation plan.
Yes. Tell your lawyer and social worker about relatives or other suitable people as early as possible. Washington law requires inquiry into possible family and suitable-person placements, but the court and DCYF still evaluate safety and the legal placement requirements.
When a child is placed outside the home after shelter care, the court generally orders regular visitation. The plan should be based on the family’s needs and provide the greatest safe contact possible. Safety concerns can affect the plan.
The judge or court commissioner makes court orders. DCYF makes many day-to-day case and placement decisions within those orders. Your lawyer advises you, speaks for your legal position, and can ask the court to review disputed issues.
Tell your lawyer and social worker in writing. Keep the date, provider name, waitlist information, and every follow-up attempt. The reason for a delay matters, and a clear record helps the court understand whether the barrier is outside your control.
No. This site gives general educational information. Your facts, court orders, tribe, county, and case history can change the answer. Ask your lawyer about your own case.