Illinois Child Welfare Employee License (CWEL) Practice Test

What is the role of Parent's Attorneys in child welfare cases?

1. Represent the best interest of children

2. Preside over hearings

3. Represent the parents or legal guardians

4. Take official notes of court proceedings

The correct answer is: Represent the parents or legal guardians

Parent's Attorneys in child welfare cases represent the parents or legal guardians involved in the proceedings. Their role is to advocate for their clients' rights, provide legal advice, and ensure that the parents' perspective and wishes are effectively presented during the legal process. This helps to ensure that the parents receive fair treatment and have a voice in decisions that impact their parental rights and responsibilities. Options A, B, and D are incorrect: A. Represent the best interest of children - This role is typically carried out by the Guardian ad Litem (GAL) or Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), whose primary focus is on advocating for the best interests of the children involved in the case. B. Preside over hearings - This role is fulfilled by the judge presiding over the case, not the Parent's Attorney. D. Take official notes of court proceedings - This responsibility is typically assigned to a court reporter or court clerk, not the Parent's Attorney.