Best Interests of the Child

Statute: N.J. Stat. Ann. § 30:4C-11.1(a) (West, WESTLAW through 1999 ch. 53)

Law:

In accordance with the provisions stated above, when determining the reasonable efforts to be made and when making the reasonable efforts, the child's health and safety shall be of paramount concern.

Concurrent Planning

Statute: N.J. Stat. Ann. § 30:4C-11.1(d) (West, WESTLAW through 1999 ch. 53)

Law:

In any case in which family reunification is not the permanency plan for the child, reasonable efforts shall be made to place the child in a timely manner and to complete the steps necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child.

Statute: N.J. Stat. Ann. § 30:4C-15 (West, WESTLAW through 1999 ch. 53)

Law:

Upon filing the petition [to terminate parental rights], the division shall initiate concurrent efforts to identify, recruit, process and approve a qualified family to adopt the child.