What Does Court Observation Tell Us About Judicial Practice and the Courts in Child Welfare?

This study provides an in-depth examination of current practice in four jurisdictions in Texas. Sites were selected based on 2008 permanency outcome performance data from a report that highlights the need for a closer look at hearing practice. The study examined 74 permanent managing conservatorship hearings, across four jurisdictions and six judicial officers, with a focus on hearing quality indicators such as parties present, level of discussion, hearing delay, and a focus on finding a permanent home. Findings suggest that the courts that had better permanency outcomes in 2008 also had more practices consistent with holding a quality hearing.