Today, we went to court to advocate on behalf of our Foster Daughter. It is not required for Foster Parents to attend court hearings, but as the guardian of the child for which the court hearing is about, you do receive notices in the mail. We never take the children to court, unless there is a request for them to be there. In our opinion, there is no point for a child to see their parents in such an awkward and vulnerable position, and for children to learn the extents of the issues associated with their case and their parents.
We have always attended the court hearings for our kiddos. The hearing is the best opportunity to gain the most information regarding the status of the case, as well as receive an accurate account of the progress being made by the parents, and the recommended plan moving forward. Typically, we sit there awkwardly and uncomfortably in the back of the tiny courtroom and listen to what is being discussed. This time was different. This time, we came with a purpose. This time, we had a prepared statement, and we were terrified.