Juvenile Dependency Lawyers in Los Angeles County

Protecting Parents, Defending Rights, and Fighting for Families in DCFS Cases

If you’re involved in a juvenile dependency case in Los Angeles County, it likely means the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) believes your child is at risk of abuse or neglect. These cases move fast and carry serious consequences—including the removal of your child, court-ordered services, and possible loss of parental rights.

Our experienced Los Angeles juvenile dependency attorneys are here to stand by your side, protect your rights, and help you navigate every step of this complex and emotional process. Whether your case is being heard at the Edmund D. Edelman Children’s Court or another juvenile courthouse in the county, we’re ready to fight for you and your family.

What Is a Juvenile Dependency Case?

A juvenile dependency case is a court proceeding where a judge decides whether a child is safe to remain in their home. These cases usually begin after a DCFS investigation, often triggered by a report of abuse, neglect, domestic violence, drug use, or unsafe living conditions.

DCFS may file a petition under Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) Section 300, which outlines various grounds for court involvement, including:

• Physical or emotional abuse
• General or severe neglect
• Failure to protect from domestic violence
• Parental substance abuse or mental health concerns
• Sexual abuse
• Abandonment or lack of supervision

Once the petition is filed, your case enters the juvenile dependency court system, and critical decisions will be made that affect your child’s living situation and your rights as a parent.

Juvenile Dependency Courts in Los Angeles County

Most cases in Los Angeles County are heard at:

Edmund D. Edelman Children’s Court
201 Centre Plaza Drive
Monterey Park, CA 91754

There are also additional juvenile courts in Long Beach, Pomona, Lancaster, and other locations throughout the county, depending on where your family lives.

What to Expect in a Dependency Case

Juvenile dependency cases involve multiple hearings and stages. A typical case may include:

• Detention hearing – The judge decides if your child will remain in DCFS custody or return home temporarily
• Jurisdictional hearing – The court determines whether the allegations in the DCFS petition are true
• Dispositional hearing – If the court finds the allegations true, it decides on a case plan and placement
• Review hearings – The court reviews your progress and considers returning the child home or moving toward permanency

These hearings are high-stakes. Without proper legal representation, your ability to regain custody or even stay involved in your child’s life can be seriously limited.

Why You Need a Los Angeles Juvenile Dependency Attorney

Dependency law is complex, and the system can feel stacked against parents. DCFS has attorneys. The court appoints a lawyer for your child. You need someone who speaks for you.

Our team can:

• Challenge the evidence DCFS presents
• Represent you at every court hearing
• Help you meet your case plan requirements
• Advocate for relative placement instead of foster care
• Fight for family reunification and restoration of your parental rights

We understand how painful and personal these cases are, and we’re here to give you clear, strategic legal support every step of the way.

We Serve Families Throughout Los Angeles County

We represent parents, guardians, and relatives across Los Angeles County, including:

• Los Angeles
• Long Beach
• Pasadena
• Pomona
• Inglewood
• Lancaster
• Santa Monica
• Glendale
• Burbank
• Torrance
• And surrounding areas

No matter where your case is filed or what stage it’s in, we can help.

Call Today for a Confidential Consultation

If you’ve been contacted by DCFS or are already involved in a juvenile dependency case in Los Angeles County, don’t wait. Time matters. Every court date and document can impact your family’s future.

Call today to speak with an experienced Los Angeles juvenile dependency lawyer. We will answer your questions, explain your rights, and build a plan to protect your family.