Decision-Making for the Permanent Placement of Children New Jersey

Schedule of Hearings

Statute: §§ 30:4C-58; 30:4C-61.2

An initial review of the placement within 45 days, and every 12 months thereafter

A permanency hearing no later than 12 months after placement; within 30 days of a finding that reasonable efforts to reunify are not required

Persons Entitled to Attend Hearings

Statute: § 30:4C-59

The division or agency

The parents, including a non-custodial parent or
guardian

A temporary caretaker including a foster parent,
preadoptive parent, or relative

Counsel for a parent, child, or other interested
party

Determinations Made at Hearings

Statute: § 30:4C-58

The appropriateness of the placement plan and the services provided

Whether the division and parents are fulfilling
their respective responsibilities

Whether the parents have been given opportunities
for visitation

Whether there are obstacles that prevent the
attainment of the placement plan objectives and
goal

Permanency Options

Statute: § 30:4C-60

Return to the parent or guardian

Adoption

Permanent placement with a relative

Long-term foster care custody

Independent living

Institutionalization

An alternative permanent placement