Some of my colleagues never recommend that a parent or school file a CHINS (if you don’t know what that is click here for Part I of this blog series). They feel that a CHINS is not helpful and not worth the time and effort. I disagree, I have seen CHINS help families and there are some distinct advantages. First, the court assigns a probation officer who can play the role of the “heavy” and take some pressure off of parents. A probation officer can help set a reasonable curfew, check up on the juvenile at school to make sure he or she is getting there on time and following rules and can be a resource to parents when their child becomes obstinate or stubborn. In addition, for some kids and teens the notion that they are involved in the courts and have a PO visiting them is enough to help them take matters seriously and adjust their behavior. Finally, if a teen is running away frequently or staying out until all hours a CHINS allows police to pick up that juvenile before the usual 24 hour missing persons period. Of course, as with anything in life with the pros come the cons. Stay tuned…
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When to Call in the Courts Part I
I often consult to parents and schools on when to file a CHINS. In Massachusetts a CHINS means Child In Need of Service and can filed in the juvenile court by a parent or school. A CHINS is taken out when a child or teen is truant from school or not following rules at home. When a CHINS is filed, the juvenile is assigned a probation officer from the court who sets up expectations with the child and family. The probation officer periodically checks in with the school and parents and makes sure the juvenile is complying with the parameters of the CHINS (e.g., making curfew, going to school, etc). A CHINS is not a legal charge, however, if the juvenile persists in violating the CHINS he or she can be subject to consequences including temporary placement out of the home. When is a CHINS a good idea and when might it be bad idea? Tune in next week for parts II and III and I’ll let you know!