Family Law Newsletters

Child Citizenship Act of 2000 - Obtaining a Passport for a Child

Some children who are born outside of the United States may automatically acquire U.S. citizenship under the Child Citizenship Act of 2000. However, no proof of citizenship will be issued to the child's biological or adoptive parents unless such proof is requested. Parents may obtain proof of citizenship for their child by applying for a Certificate of Citizenship from the United States Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In the alternative, the parents may apply for a passport for the child from the United States Department of State.

Child Welfare Agencies' Potential Malpractice Liability for Improperly Detaining a Child in the Foster Care System

States have enacted laws requiring the filing of reports of suspected child abuse and neglect, and most states have specialized child protective agencies to investigate these reports. The organization of the agencies varies greatly from state to state. Child protective agencies should essentially perform the same functions.

Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act

What is the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE)? Both the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate passed FACE in 1994. President Clinton signed FACE into law in 1994. FACE is a federal law that was passed in order to protect reproductive health facilities and their staff from violent threats and assaults.

Preferences Created by the Indian Child Welfare Act

The purpose of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is to preserve and strengthen Native American families and culture. The ICWA attempts to accomplish that purpose by creating a legal preference for the placement of Native American children in Native American homes.

The Nursing Home Decision, Finding a Nursing Home, and the Cost

A nursing home is a facility that becomes a new home for an elderly person. The facility offers food, skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, medical services, personal services, and recreational activities.
The decision to place the elder person in a nursing home facility can be very taxing on the family members. The decision is even more difficult if the elder is reluctant to residing in a nursing home facility.