It was well-documented that Milwaukee County ran one of the worst child welfare systems in the country. Social workers' caseloads were deplorably high; necessary child services were unavailable; few children were being adopted; and the rate of neglect and abuse soared. Local advocates and experts requested assistance from Children's Rights and, in 1993, Children's Rights filed suit.

Responding to the pending litigation, the State took over the previously county-run child welfare system. However, when the State failed to deliver promised reforms, Children's Rights filed a supplemental complaint against the State. Finally, the parties reached a settlement and in December 2002, the court approved a settlement agreement that sets performance targets for the Bureau of Milwaukee Child Welfare. The State is issuing public reports every six months on its progress in reaching the stipulated goals. Since Children's Rights became involved with the Milwaukee system, the system has improved in numerous ways. For example, caseloads that previously exceeded 100 children per social worker have dropped to an average of less than 25 children per social worker.