The Family Justice Initiative is a national collaborative of children’s attorneys, parents’ attorneys, educators, researchers, and national policy advocates who share a common goal: to increase access to high-quality legal representation for children and parents in child welfare cases. It’s led by the ABA Center on Children and the Law, the Children’s Law Center of California, and the Washington State Office of Public Defense.
Partnering for Families
We are a national initiative working to improve legal representation for families across the United States.
Our Founders
American Bar Association Center on Children and the Law, Casey Family Programs, Center for Family Representation, and Children's Law Center of California
Learn MoreRecent News and Resources
Read recent news articles, research, and resources.
Active Efforts in ICWA Cases During the Pandemic
Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) cases are being severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic: courts are delaying time sensitive hearings, tribal family’s visits are being disrupted or canceled altogether, and case plan services are being put on hold. This raises concerns of whether active efforts tribal families need in order to reunite with their children…
Webinar: Multidisciplinary Legal Representation and its Positive Impact on Reunifications
Please join the ABA Center on Children and the Law for a free webinar on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at 12:30 – 2:00 PM EST. The webinar explores how high-quality legal representation for parents and family reunification. Download the flyer to learn how to register.
During Coronavirus, High-Quality Legal Representation Can Be a Lifesaver for Families
FJI leaders describe how high-quality legal representation for parents and children helps families reunify during the Covid-19 pandemic.