Chapter 419B — Juvenile Code: Dependency

 

2023 EDITION

 

 

JUVENILE CODE: DEPENDENCY

 

HUMAN SERVICES; JUVENILE CODE; CORRECTIONS

 

REPORTING AND INVESTIGATION OF CHILD ABUSE

 

419B.005  Definitions

 

419B.007  Policy

 

419B.010  Duty of officials to report child abuse; exceptions; penalty

 

419B.015  Report form and content; notice

 

419B.016  Offense of false report of child abuse

 

419B.017  Time limits for notification between law enforcement agencies and Department of Human Services; rules

 

419B.019  Investigation of report involving school; notification; report to Legislative Assembly; rules

 

419B.020  Duty of department or law enforcement agency receiving report; investigation; notice; physical examination; child’s consent; notice at conclusion of investigation

 

419B.021  Degree requirements for persons conducting investigation or making determination regarding child

 

419B.023  Duties of person conducting investigation under ORS 419B.020

 

419B.025  Immunity of person making report in good faith

 

419B.026  Required findings for investigation conducted under ORS 419B.020

 

419B.027  Notice of founded disposition

 

Note          Exception against substantiation of allegation of abuse by public education program personnel--2023 c.581 §§8,12

 

419B.028  Photographing child during investigation; photographs as records

 

419B.029  Power to subpoena documents and records in child abuse investigations

 

419B.030  Central registry of reports

 

419B.035  Confidentiality of records; when available to others; rules

 

419B.040  Certain privileges not grounds for excluding evidence in court proceedings on child abuse

 

419B.045  Investigation conducted on school premises; notification; role of school personnel

 

419B.050  Authority of health care provider to disclose information; immunity from liability

 

419B.055  Action by Attorney General for protective order on behalf of department employee; written request; eligible employees

 

JUVENILE COURT

 

(Generally)

 

419B.090  Juvenile court; jurisdiction; policy

 

419B.100  Jurisdiction; bases; Indian children

 

419B.110  Emergency medical care; court may authorize

 

419B.112  Court appointed special advocate; duties; immunity; access to information; funding; rules

 

419B.116  Intervention; caregiver relationship; rights of limited participation

 

419B.117  Notice to parents or guardian of child; when given; contents

 

419B.118  Venue

 

419B.121  Return of runaway children to another state

 

419B.124  Transfer to juvenile court from another court

 

419B.127  Transfer to court of county of child or ward’s residence

 

419B.130  Delegation of jurisdiction by county of residence

 

419B.132  Delegation of jurisdiction among county juvenile courts

 

419B.135  Transfer of case; transportation of child or ward

 

(Protective Custody)

 

419B.150  When protective custody authorized; protective custody order

 

419B.152  Protective custody of runaway child

 

419B.155  Protective custody not arrest

 

419B.157  Jurisdiction attaches at time of custody

 

419B.160  Prohibition on detention; exceptions; place of holding; record; parental notice required

 

419B.165  Release of child taken into custody; rules

 

419B.168  Procedure when child is not released

 

419B.171  Report required when child is taken into protective custody

 

419B.175  Initial disposition of child taken into protective custody

 

(Shelter Hearings)

 

419B.180  Shelter facilities

 

419B.183  Speedy hearing required

 

419B.185  Evidentiary hearing

 

(Placement of Child or Ward)

 

419B.192  Placement of child or ward; preference given to relatives and caregivers; written findings of court required

 

419B.193  Search for substitute care placements among relatives; notices to parents and certain relatives

 

419B.194  Participation in extracurricular activities; reasonable and prudent parent standard; fees; rules

 

(Counsel)

 

419B.195  Appointment of counsel for child or ward; access of appointed counsel to records of child or ward

 

419B.198  Responsibility for payment of costs related to provision of appointed counsel for child or ward

 

419B.201  Compensation for court-appointed counsel for child or ward under ORS 135.055

 

419B.205  Appointment of counsel for parent or legal guardian

 

419B.208  Other law applicable to appointment of counsel

 

419B.211  Motion to withdraw as counsel

 

(Educational Surrogate)

 

419B.220  Appointment of surrogate

 

419B.223  Duties and tenure of surrogate

 

(Guardian Ad Litem for Parent)

 

419B.231  Appointment; hearing; findings

 

419B.234  Qualifications; duties; privilege

 

419B.237  Duration of appointment; compensation

 

(Hearings)

 

419B.305  When hearing must be held; continuation; priority

 

419B.310  Conduct of hearings

 

(Disposition)

 

419B.325  Disposition required; evidence

 

419B.328  Ward of the court; duration of wardship

 

419B.331  When protective supervision authorized; conditions that may be imposed

 

419B.334  Placement out of state

 

419B.335  Department of Human Services reports regarding out-of-state placements

 

419B.337  Commitment to custody of Department of Human Services

 

419B.340  Reasonable or active efforts determination

 

419B.343  Recommendations of committing court; case planning; plan contents

 

419B.346  Medical planning

 

419B.349  Court authority to review placement or proposed placement

 

419B.351  Court approval of placement in qualified residential treatment program

 

419B.352  Hospitalization; mental health examination

 

(Guardianships)

 

419B.365  Permanent guardianship; petition; when filed; procedure

 

419B.366  Guardianship; motion; procedure

 

419B.367  Letters of guardianship; reports by guardian; review of reports; legal status and liability of guardian

 

419B.368  Review, modification or vacation of guardianship order

 

419B.369  Guardianship study; rules

 

419B.371  Community guardianship

 

(Legal Custodian of Child)

 

419B.372  Guardianship as incident of custody

 

419B.373  Duties and authority of legal custodian

 

(Guardian)

 

419B.376  Duties and authority of guardian

 

419B.379  Guardian is not conservator

 

(Authority Over Parents)

 

419B.385  Parent or guardian as party

 

419B.387  Parent participation in treatment or training

 

419B.389  Inability of parent to comply with order of court

 

(Parentage)

 

419B.395  Judgment of parentage or nonparentage

 

(Support)

 

419B.400  Authority to order support; collection

 

419B.402  Support order is judgment; modification; satisfaction

 

419B.404  Support for child or ward in state financed or supported institution

 

419B.406  Assignment of support order to state

 

419B.408  Enforcement of support order

 

(Reports by Guardians and Custodians)

 

419B.440  Circumstances requiring reports; exceptions

 

419B.443  Time and content of reports

 

419B.446  Filing report

 

419B.449  Review hearing by court; findings

 

419B.452  Distribution of report by court

 

(Child Surrendered for Adoption)

 

419B.460  Agency’s responsibility

 

(Permanency Hearing)

 

419B.470  Permanency hearing; schedule

 

419B.473  Notice; appearance

 

419B.476  Conduct of hearing; court determinations; orders

 

(Termination of Parental Rights)

 

419B.498  Termination of parental rights; petition by Department of Human Services; when required

 

419B.500  Termination of parental rights generally

 

419B.502  Termination upon finding of extreme conduct

 

419B.504  Termination upon finding of unfitness

 

419B.506  Termination upon finding of neglect

 

419B.508  Termination upon finding of abandonment

 

419B.510  Termination upon finding child conceived as result of rape

 

419B.517  Mediation to be encouraged

 

419B.518  Appointment of counsel for parents

 

419B.521  Conduct of termination hearing

 

419B.524  Effect of termination order

 

419B.527  Disposition of ward after termination

 

419B.529  Adoption after permanent commitment or surrender; procedure; certain fees prohibited

 

419B.530  Representation by Attorney General

 

419B.532  Reinstatement of parental rights; rules

 

(Emancipation of Minor)

 

419B.550  Definitions for ORS 419B.550 to 419B.558

 

419B.552  Application for emancipation judgment; effect of judgment

 

419B.555  Hearing; notice to parent; duty to advise minor of liabilities of emancipated person; filing fee

 

419B.558  Entry of judgment of emancipation

 

INDIAN CHILD WELFARE

 

419B.600  Policy on Indian child welfare

 

419B.603  Definitions

 

419B.606  Custody; presumption of continued custody

 

419B.609  Acknowledgment or establishment of parentage

 

419B.612  Best interests of Indian child

 

419B.615  Assistance enrolling child in tribe; notice to parents

 

419B.618  Determination of Indian child’s tribe

 

419B.621  Judicial determination of Indian child’s residence, domicile and status as ward

 

419B.622  Domicile

 

419B.624  Tribal-state agreements

 

419B.627  Jurisdiction; limitations; tribal court assumption of jurisdiction

 

419B.630  Motion to transfer to tribal court; objection; good cause to deny transfer

 

419B.633  Transfer to tribal court

 

419B.636  Inquiry to determine whether child is Indian child; when there is reason to know child is Indian child; notice

 

419B.639  Notice to tribe in emergency proceeding; notice in other proceedings; form and timing of notice; exception

 

419B.642  Qualified expert witness

 

419B.645  Active efforts

 

419B.646  Right to appear; withdrawal by party

 

419B.647  Right to counsel

 

419B.648  Right to examine reports or documents

 

419B.651  Vacating order or judgment regarding jurisdiction, placement, guardianship or termination of parental rights; effect of vacated order or judgment

 

419B.652  Determination regarding improper removal or retainment; effect of determination; exception

 

419B.654  Placement preferences; motion for placement contrary to preferences for good cause

 

419B.656  Tribal customary adoption; rules; forms

 

Note          Report to Legislative Assembly regarding tribal customary adoption--2021 c.398 §80

 

419B.657  Reports to Legislative Assembly

 

419B.660  Conflict of laws

 

419B.663  Full faith and credit

 

419B.665  Rules

 

JUVENILE COURT DEPENDENCY PROCEDURE

 

419B.800  Applicability of ORS 419B.800 to 419B.929

 

419B.803  Jurisdiction

 

419B.806  Consolidation; when required; procedures

 

419B.809  Petition; contents; form; dismissal

 

419B.812  Issuance of summons; time for hearing on petition

 

419B.815  Summons for proceeding to establish jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100; contents; failure to appear

 

419B.816  Notice to person contesting petition to establish jurisdiction

 

419B.818  Form of summons under ORS 419B.815

 

 

419B.819  Summons for proceeding to establish permanent guardianship or terminate parental rights; contents; failure to appear

 

419B.820  Notice to parent contesting petition to establish permanent guardianship or terminate parental rights

 

419B.822  Form of summons under ORS 419B.819

 

419B.823  Service of summons generally

 

419B.824  Methods of serving summons

 

419B.827  Responsibility for costs of service of summons and travel expenses of party summoned

 

419B.830  Return of summons

 

419B.833  Proof of service of summons or mailing

 

419B.836  Effect of error in summons or service of summons

 

419B.839  Required and discretionary summons

 

419B.842  When arrest warrant authorized

 

419B.845  Restraining order when child abuse alleged

 

419B.846  Service of restraining order

 

419B.848  Process generally

 

419B.851  Service of process; filing; proof of service

 

419B.854  Computing statutory time periods

 

419B.857  Pleadings; construction

 

419B.860  Motions

 

419B.863  Pleadings; captions

 

419B.866  Signing pleadings required; effect of signing or not signing

 

419B.869  Responding to pleadings; time limit

 

419B.872  Amendment of pleadings

 

419B.875  Parties to proceedings; rights of limited participation; status of grandparents; interpreters

 

419B.876  Visitation or other contact between grandparent and ward; findings; order; appeal

 

419B.878  Judicial inquiry and finding regarding whether child is Indian child

 

419B.881  Disclosure; scope; when required; exceptions; breach of duty to disclose

 

419B.884  Depositions; procedure

 

419B.887  Objections at depositions; effect of failure to make timely objection; errors and irregularities in transcript preparation

 

419B.890  Dismissal of petition at end of petitioner’s case; settlement conference

 

419B.893  Subpoenas generally

 

419B.896  Subpoena for production of books, papers, documents and other tangible things

 

419B.899  Issuance of subpoena

 

419B.902  Service of subpoena

 

419B.905  Subpoena of incarcerated witness

 

419B.908  Witness fees; payment

 

419B.911  Failure to obey subpoena

 

419B.914  Proceeding when person entitled to service is not summoned and is not before court

 

419B.918  Manner of appearance

 

419B.920  New hearings

 

419B.923  Modifying or setting aside order or judgment

 

419B.926  Stay of order or judgment pending appeal

 

419B.929  Enforcement of certain orders and judgments

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

419B.950  Educational program regarding federal and state adoption and child welfare laws; establishment; purpose

 

419B.953  Training and continuing education for caseworkers

 

REPORTING AND INVESTIGATION OF CHILD ABUSE

 

      419B.005 Definitions. As used in ORS 419B.005 to 419B.050, unless the context requires otherwise:

      (1)(a) “Abuse” means:

      (A) Any assault, as defined in ORS chapter 163, of a child and any physical injury to a child that has been caused by other than accidental means, including any injury that appears to be at variance with the explanation given of the injury.

      (B) Any mental injury to a child, which shall include only cruel or unconscionable acts or statements made, or threatened to be made, to a child if the acts, statements or threats result in severe harm to the child’s psychological, cognitive, emotional or social well-being and functioning.

      (C) Rape of a child, which includes but is not limited to rape, sodomy, unlawful sexual penetration and incest, as those acts are described in ORS chapter 163.

      (D) Sexual abuse, as described in ORS chapter 163.

      (E) Sexual exploitation, including but not limited to:

      (i) Contributing to the sexual delinquency of a minor, as defined in ORS chapter 163, and any other conduct that allows, employs, authorizes, permits, induces or encourages a child to engage in the performing for people to observe or the photographing, filming, tape recording or other exhibition that, in whole or in part, depicts sexual conduct or contact, as defined in ORS 167.002 or described in ORS 163.665 and 163.670, sexual abuse involving a child or rape of a child, but not including any conduct that is part of any investigation conducted pursuant to ORS 419B.020 or that is designed to serve educational or other legitimate purposes; and

      (ii) Allowing, permitting, encouraging or hiring a child to engage in prostitution as described in ORS 167.007 or a commercial sex act as defined in ORS 163.266, to purchase sex with a minor as described in ORS 163.413 or to engage in commercial sexual solicitation as described in ORS 167.008.

      (F) Negligent treatment or maltreatment of a child, including but not limited to the failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter or medical care that is likely to endanger the health or welfare of the child.

      (G) Threatened harm to a child, which means subjecting a child to a substantial risk of harm to the child’s health or welfare.

      (H) Buying or selling a person under 18 years of age as described in ORS 163.537.

      (I) Permitting a person under 18 years of age to enter or remain in or upon premises where methamphetamines are being manufactured.

      (J) Unlawful exposure to a controlled substance, as defined in ORS 475.005, or to the unlawful manufacturing of a cannabinoid extract, as defined in ORS 475C.009, that subjects a child to a substantial risk of harm to the child’s health or safety.

      (K) The restraint or seclusion of a child in violation of ORS 339.285, 339.288, 339.291, 339.303 or 339.308.

      (L) The infliction of corporal punishment on a child in violation of ORS 339.250 (9).

      (b) “Abuse” does not include reasonable discipline unless the discipline results in one of the conditions described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.

      (2) “Child” means an unmarried person who:

      (a) Is under 18 years of age; or

      (b) Is a child in care, as defined in ORS 418.257.

      (3) “Higher education institution” means:

      (a) A community college as defined in ORS 341.005;

      (b) A public university listed in ORS 352.002;

      (c) The Oregon Health and Science University; and

      (d) A private institution of higher education located in Oregon.

      (4)(a) “Investigation” means a detailed inquiry into or assessment of the safety of a child alleged to have experienced abuse.

      (b) “Investigation” does not include screening activities conducted upon the receipt of a report.

      (5) “Law enforcement agency” means:

      (a) A city or municipal police department.

      (b) A county sheriff’s office.

      (c) The Oregon State Police.

      (d) A police department established by a university under ORS 352.121 or 353.125.

      (e) A county juvenile department.

      (6) “Public or private official” means:

      (a) Physician or physician assistant licensed under ORS chapter 677 or naturopathic physician, including any intern or resident.

      (b) Dentist.

      (c) School employee, including an employee of a higher education institution.

      (d) Licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, nurse practitioner, nurse’s aide, home health aide or employee of an in-home health service.

      (e) Employee of the Department of Human Services, Oregon Health Authority, Department of Early Learning and Care, Department of Education, Youth Development Division, the Oregon Youth Authority, a local health department, a community mental health program, a community developmental disabilities program, a county juvenile department, a child-caring agency as that term is defined in ORS 418.205 or an alcohol and drug treatment program.

      (f) Peace officer.

      (g) Psychologist.

      (h) Member of the clergy.

      (i) Regulated social worker.

      (j) Optometrist.

      (k) Chiropractor.

      (L) Certified provider of foster care, or an employee thereof.

      (m) Attorney.

      (n) Licensed professional counselor.

      (o) Licensed marriage and family therapist.

      (p) Firefighter or emergency medical services provider.

      (q) Court appointed special advocate, as defined in ORS 419A.004.

      (r) Child care provider registered or certified under ORS 329A.250 to 329A.450.

      (s) Elected official of a branch of government of this state or a state agency, board, commission or department of a branch of government of this state or of a city, county or other political subdivision in this state.

      (t) Physical, speech or occupational therapist.

      (u) Audiologist.

      (v) Speech-language pathologist.

      (w) Employee of the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission directly involved in investigations or discipline by the commission.

      (x) Pharmacist.

      (y) Operator of a preschool recorded program under ORS 329A.255.

      (z) Operator of a school-age recorded program under ORS 329A.255.

      (aa) Employee of a private agency or organization facilitating the provision of respite services, as defined in ORS 418.205, for parents pursuant to a properly executed power of attorney under ORS 109.056.

      (bb) Employee of a public or private organization providing child-related services or activities:

      (A) Including but not limited to an employee of a:

      (i) Youth group or center;

      (ii) Scout group or camp;

      (iii) Summer or day camp;

      (iv) Survival camp; or

      (v) Group, center or camp that is operated under the guidance, supervision or auspices of a religious, public or private educational system or a community service organization; and

      (B) Excluding an employee of a qualified victim services program as defined in ORS 147.600 that provides confidential, direct services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking or human trafficking.

      (cc) Coach, assistant coach or trainer of an amateur, semiprofessional or professional athlete, if compensated and if the athlete is a child.

      (dd) Personal support worker, as defined in ORS 410.600.

      (ee) Home care worker, as defined in ORS 410.600.

      (ff) Animal control officer, as defined in ORS 609.500.

      (gg) Member of a school district board, an education service district board or a public charter school governing body.

      (hh) Individual who is paid by a public body, in accordance with ORS 430.215, to provide a service identified in an individualized service plan of a child with a developmental disability.

      (ii) Referral agent, as defined in ORS 418.351.

      (jj) Parole and probation officer, as defined in ORS 181A.355.

      (kk) Behavior analyst or assistant behavior analyst licensed under ORS 676.810 or behavior analysis interventionist registered by the Health Licensing Office under ORS 676.815. [1993 c.546 §12; 1993 c.622 §1a; 1995 c.278 §50; 1995 c.766 §1; 1997 c.127 §1; 1997 c.561 §3; 1997 c.703 §3; 1997 c.873 §30; 1999 c.743 §22; 1999 c.954 §4; 2001 c.104 §148; 2003 c.191 §1; 2005 c.562 §26; 2005 c.708 §4; 2009 c.199 §1; 2009 c.442 §36; 2009 c.518 §1; 2009 c.570 §6; 2009 c.595 §364; 2009 c.633 §10; 2009 c.708 §3; 2010 c.60 §§4,5; 2011 c.151 §12; 2011 c.506 §38; 2011 c.703 §34; 2012 c.37 §60; 2012 c.92 §1; 2013 c.129 §26; 2013 c.180 §40; 2013 c.623 §17; 2013 c.624 §82; 2013 c.720 §11; 2015 c.98 §7; 2015 c.179 §1; 2015 c.736 §65; 2016 c.106 §39; 2017 c.21 §55; 2018 c.75 §21; 2019 c.137 §§1,2; 2019 c.176 §§1,2; 2019 c.455 §§3,4; 2019 c.618 §§16,17; 2021 c.97 §44; 2021 c.214 §1; 2021 c.251 §2; 2021 c.391 §4; 2021 c.590 §4; 2021 c.631 §58; 2022 c.27 §16; 2022 c.90 §§7,8; 2023 c.9 §§28,29; 2023 c.267 §§5,6; 2023 c.500 §§8,9; 2023 c.554 §52; 2023 c.581 §§3,4]

 

      Note: The amendments to 419B.005 by section 6, chapter 581, Oregon Laws 2023, become operative July 1, 2028, and apply to incidents occurring on or after July 1, 2028. See sections 13 and 14, chapter 581, Oregon Laws 2023. The text that is operative on and after July 1, 2028, is set forth for the user’s convenience.

      419B.005. As used in ORS 419B.005 to 419B.050, unless the context requires otherwise:

      (1)(a) “Abuse” means:

      (A) Any assault, as defined in ORS chapter 163, of a child and any physical injury to a child that has been caused by other than accidental means, including any injury that appears to be at variance with the explanation given of the injury.

      (B) Any mental injury to a child, which shall include only cruel or unconscionable acts or statements made, or threatened to be made, to a child if the acts, statements or threats result in severe harm to the child’s psychological, cognitive, emotional or social well-being and functioning.     (C) Rape of a child, which includes but is not limited to rape, sodomy, unlawful sexual penetration and incest, as those acts are described in ORS chapter 163.

      (D) Sexual abuse, as described in ORS chapter 163.

      (E) Sexual exploitation, including but not limited to:

      (i) Contributing to the sexual delinquency of a minor, as defined in ORS chapter 163, and any other conduct that allows, employs, authorizes, permits, induces or encourages a child to engage in the performing for people to observe or the photographing, filming, tape recording or other exhibition that, in whole or in part, depicts sexual conduct or contact, as defined in ORS 167.002 or described in ORS 163.665 and 163.670, sexual abuse involving a child or rape of a child, but not including any conduct that is part of any investigation conducted pursuant to ORS 419B.020 or that is designed to serve educational or other legitimate purposes; and

      (ii) Allowing, permitting, encouraging or hiring a child to engage in prostitution as described in ORS 167.007 or a commercial sex act as defined in ORS 163.266, to purchase sex with a minor as described in ORS 163.413 or to engage in commercial sexual solicitation as described in ORS 167.008.

      (F) Negligent treatment or maltreatment of a child, including but not limited to the failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter or medical care that is likely to endanger the health or welfare of the child.

      (G) Threatened harm to a child, which means subjecting a child to a substantial risk of harm to the child’s health or welfare.

      (H) Buying or selling a person under 18 years of age as described in ORS 163.537.

      (I) Permitting a person under 18 years of age to enter or remain in or upon premises where methamphetamines are being manufactured.

      (J) Unlawful exposure to a controlled substance, as defined in ORS 475.005, or to the unlawful manufacturing of a cannabinoid extract, as defined in ORS 475C.009, that subjects a child to a substantial risk of harm to the child’s health or safety.

      (K) The infliction of corporal punishment on a child in violation of ORS 339.250 (9).

      (b) “Abuse” does not include reasonable discipline unless the discipline results in one of the conditions described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.

      (2) “Child” means an unmarried person who:

      (a) Is under 18 years of age; or

      (b) Is a child in care, as defined in ORS 418.257.

      (3) “Higher education institution” means:

      (a) A community college as defined in ORS 341.005;

      (b) A public university listed in ORS 352.002;

      (c) The Oregon Health and Science University; and

      (d) A private institution of higher education located in Oregon.

      (4)(a) “Investigation” means a detailed inquiry into or assessment of the safety of a child alleged to have experienced abuse.

      (b) “Investigation” does not include screening activities conducted upon the receipt of a report.

      (5) “Law enforcement agency” means:

      (a) A city or municipal police department.

      (b) A county sheriff’s office.

      (c) The Oregon State Police.

      (d) A police department established by a university under ORS 352.121 or 353.125.

      (e) A county juvenile department.

      (6) “Public or private official” means:

      (a) Physician or physician assistant licensed under ORS chapter 677 or naturopathic physician, including any intern or resident.

      (b) Dentist.

      (c) School employee, including an employee of a higher education institution.

      (d) Licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, nurse practitioner, nurse’s aide, home health aide or employee of an in-home health service.

      (e) Employee of the Department of Human Services, Oregon Health Authority, Department of Early Learning and Care, Department of Education, Youth Development Division, the Oregon Youth Authority, a local health department, a community mental health program, a community developmental disabilities program, a county juvenile department, a child-caring agency as that term is defined in ORS 418.205 or an alcohol and drug treatment program.

      (f) Peace officer.

      (g) Psychologist.

      (h) Member of the clergy.

      (i) Regulated social worker.

      (j) Optometrist.

      (k) Chiropractor.

      (L) Certified provider of foster care, or an employee thereof.

      (m) Attorney.

      (n) Licensed professional counselor.

      (o) Licensed marriage and family therapist.

      (p) Firefighter or emergency medical services provider.

      (q) Court appointed special advocate, as defined in ORS 419A.004.

      (r) Child care provider registered or certified under ORS 329A.250 to 329A.450.

      (s) Elected official of a branch of government of this state or a state agency, board, commission or department of a branch of government of this state or of a city, county or other political subdivision in this state.

      (t) Physical, speech or occupational therapist.

      (u) Audiologist.

      (v) Speech-language pathologist.

      (w) Employee of the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission directly involved in investigations or discipline by the commission.

      (x) Pharmacist.

      (y) Operator of a preschool recorded program under ORS 329A.255.

      (z) Operator of a school-age recorded program under ORS 329A.255.

      (aa) Employee of a private agency or organization facilitating the provision of respite services, as defined in ORS 418.205, for parents pursuant to a properly executed power of attorney under ORS 109.056.

      (bb) Employee of a public or private organization providing child-related services or activities:

      (A) Including but not limited to an employee of a:

      (i) Youth group or center;

      (ii) Scout group or camp;

      (iii) Summer or day camp;

      (iv) Survival camp; or

      (v) Group, center or camp that is operated under the guidance, supervision or auspices of a religious, public or private educational system or a community service organization; and

      (B) Excluding an employee of a qualified victim services program as defined in ORS 147.600 that provides confidential, direct services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking or human trafficking.

      (cc) Coach, assistant coach or trainer of an amateur, semiprofessional or professional athlete, if compensated and if the athlete is a child.

      (dd) Personal support worker, as defined in ORS 410.600.

      (ee) Home care worker, as defined in ORS 410.600.

      (ff) Animal control officer, as defined in ORS 609.500.

      (gg) Member of a school district board, an education service district board or a public charter school governing body.

      (hh) Individual who is paid by a public body, in accordance with ORS 430.215, to provide a service identified in an individualized service plan of a child with a developmental disability.

      (ii) Referral agent, as defined in ORS 418.351.

      (jj) Parole and probation officer, as defined in ORS 181A.355.

      (kk) Behavior analyst or assistant behavior analyst licensed under ORS 676.810 or behavior analysis interventionist registered by the Health Licensing Office under ORS 676.815.

 

      419B.007 Policy. The Legislative Assembly finds that for the purpose of facilitating the use of protective social services to prevent further abuse, safeguard and enhance the welfare of abused children, and preserve family life when consistent with the protection of the child by stabilizing the family and improving parental capacity, it is necessary and in the public interest to require mandatory reports and investigations of abuse of children and to encourage voluntary reports. [1993 c.546 §13]

 

      419B.010 Duty of officials to report child abuse; exceptions; penalty. (1) Any public or private official having reasonable cause to believe that any child with whom the official comes in contact has suffered abuse or that any person with whom the official comes in contact has abused a child shall immediately report or cause a report to be made in the manner required in ORS 419B.015. Nothing contained in ORS 40.225 to 40.295 or 419B.234 (6) affects the duty to report imposed by this section, except that a psychiatrist, psychologist, member of the clergy, attorney or guardian ad litem appointed under ORS 419B.231 is not required to report such information communicated by a person if the communication is privileged under ORS 40.225 to 40.295 or 419B.234 (6). An attorney is not required to make a report under this section by reason of information communicated to the attorney in the course of representing a client if disclosure of the information would be detrimental to the client.

      (2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, a report need not be made under this section if the public or private official acquires information relating to abuse by reason of a report made under this section, or by reason of a proceeding arising out of a report made under this section, and the public or private official reasonably believes that the information is already known by a law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services.

      (3) The duty to report under this section is personal to the public or private official alone, regardless of whether the official is employed by, a volunteer of or a representative or agent for any type of entity or organization that employs persons or uses persons as volunteers who are public or private officials in its operations.

      (4) The duty to report under this section exists regardless of whether the entity or organization that employs the public or private official or uses the official as a volunteer has its own procedures or policies for reporting abuse internally within the entity or organization.

      (5) A person who violates subsection (1) of this section commits a Class A violation. Prosecution under this subsection shall be commenced at any time within 18 months after commission of the offense. [1993 c.546 §14; 1999 c.1051 §180; 2001 c.104 §149; 2001 c.904 §15; 2005 c.450 §7; 2012 c.92 §11]

 

      419B.015 Report form and content; notice. (1)(a) A person making a voluntary report of child abuse shall make an oral report to the Department of Human Services by telephone to the child abuse reporting hotline described in ORS 418.190 or to a law enforcement agency within the county where the person making the report is located at the time of the contact. A person making a report of child abuse that is required by ORS 419B.010 shall make the report to the department through the centralized child abuse reporting system described in ORS 418.190 or to a law enforcement agency within the county where the person making the report is located at the time of the contact. The report must contain, if known, the names and addresses of the child and the parents of the child or other persons responsible for care of the child, the child’s age, the nature and extent of the abuse, including any evidence of previous abuse, the explanation given for the abuse and any other information that the person making the report believes might be helpful in establishing the cause of the abuse and the identity of the perpetrator.

      (b)(A) When a report of alleged child abuse is received by the department, the department shall notify a law enforcement agency within the county where the alleged abuse occurred or, if that county is unknown, the county where the child resides or, if that county is unknown, the county where the reporter came into contact with the child or the alleged perpetrator of the abuse.

      (B) When a report of alleged child abuse is received by a law enforcement agency, the agency shall notify the department by making a report of the alleged child abuse to the centralized child abuse reporting system described in ORS 418.190.

      (c) When a report of alleged child abuse is received by the department or by a law enforcement agency, the department or law enforcement agency, or both, may collect information concerning the military status of the parent or guardian of the child who is the subject of the report and may share the information with the appropriate military authorities. Disclosure of information under this paragraph is subject to ORS 419B.035 (7).

      (2) When a report of alleged child abuse is received under subsection (1)(a) of this section, the entity receiving the report shall make the notification required by subsection (1)(b) of this section according to rules adopted by the department under ORS 419B.017.

      (3)(a) When a report alleging that a child or ward in substitute care may have been subjected to abuse is received by the department, the department shall notify the attorney for the child or ward, the child’s or ward’s court appointed special advocate, the parents of the child or ward and any attorney representing a parent of the child or ward that a report has been received.

      (b) The name and address of and other identifying information about the person who made the report may not be disclosed under this subsection. Any person or entity to whom notification is made under this subsection may not release any information not authorized by this subsection.

      (c) The department shall make the notification required by this subsection within three business days of receiving the report of alleged child abuse.

      (d) Notwithstanding the obligation imposed by this subsection, the department is not required under this subsection to notify the parent or parent’s attorney that a report of alleged child abuse has been received if the notification may interfere with an investigation or assessment or jeopardize the child’s or ward’s safety. [1993 c.546 §15; 1993 c.734 §1a; 2005 c.250 §1; 2007 c.237 §1; 2017 c.210 §1; 2019 c.181 §1; 2023 c.132 §2]

 

      419B.016 Offense of false report of child abuse. (1) A person commits the offense of making a false report of child abuse if, with the intent to influence a custody, parenting time, visitation or child support decision, the person:

      (a) Makes a false report of child abuse to the Department of Human Services or a law enforcement agency, knowing that the report is false; or

      (b) With the intent that a public or private official make a report of child abuse to the Department of Human Services or a law enforcement agency, makes a false report of child abuse to the public or private official, knowing that the report is false.

      (2) Making a false report of child abuse is a Class A violation. [2011 c.606 §2]

 

      Note: 419B.016 was added to and made a part of 419B.005 to 419B.050 by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.017 Time limits for notification between law enforcement agencies and Department of Human Services; rules. (1) The Department of Human Services shall adopt rules establishing:

      (a) The time within which the notification required by ORS 419B.015 (1)(b) must be made. At a minimum, the rules shall:

      (A) Establish which reports of child abuse require notification within 24 hours after receipt;

      (B) Provide that all other reports of child abuse require notification within 10 days after receipt; and

      (C) Establish criteria that enable the department or a law enforcement agency to quickly and easily identify reports that require notification within 24 hours after receipt.

      (b) How the notification is to be made.

      (2) The department shall appoint an advisory committee to advise the department in adopting rules required by this section. The department shall include as members of the advisory committee representatives of law enforcement agencies and multidisciplinary teams formed pursuant to ORS 418.747 and other interested parties.

      (3) The department may recommend practices and procedures to local law enforcement agencies to meet the requirements of rules adopted under this section. [2005 c.250 §3; 2019 c.181 §2; 2023 c.132 §6]

 

      Note: 419B.017 was added to and made a part of 419B.005 to 419B.050 by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.019 Investigation of report involving school; notification; report to Legislative Assembly; rules. (1) As used in this section:

      (a) “Agent” means a person who:

      (A) Acts as an agent for an education provider in a manner that requires the person to have direct, unsupervised contact with children; and

      (B) Interacts with a child because of the person’s status as an agent for an education provider.

      (b) “Contractor” means a person who:

      (A) Provides services to an education provider under a contract in a manner that requires the person to have direct, unsupervised contact with children; and

      (B) Interacts with a child because of the person’s status as a contractor for an education provider.

      (c) “Education provider” has the meaning given that term in ORS 339.370.

      (d) “School employee” means a person who:

      (A) Is an employee of an education provider; and

      (B) Interacts with a child because of the person’s status as an employee of an education provider.

      (e) “Volunteer” means a person who:

      (A) Acts as a volunteer for an education provider in a manner that requires the person to have direct, unsupervised contact with children; and

      (B) Interacts with a child because of the person’s status as a volunteer of an education provider.

      (2) A law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services must conduct an investigation as provided by ORS 419B.020 if the law enforcement agency or department receives a report of abuse that involves a child and a person who is a school employee, contractor, agent or volunteer.

      (3) A law enforcement agency shall notify the department as provided by ORS 419B.015 if the law enforcement agency receives a report described in subsection (2) of this section. The department shall notify a law enforcement agency as provided by ORS 419B.015 if the department receives a report described in subsection (2) of this section. The department shall ensure that an investigation related to the report is conducted if the report is not investigated by a law enforcement agency.

      (4)(a) Within three business days of receiving a report or notification of a report described in subsection (2) of this section, the department shall notify:

      (A) The appropriate education provider to ensure the safety of the child, if the department believes the report of suspected abuse involves the child and a person who is a school employee, contractor, agent or volunteer;

      (B) The Teacher Standards and Practices Commission, if the department believes the school employee, contractor, agent or volunteer is licensed, registered or certified by the commission; or

      (C) The Department of Education, if the Department of Human Services believes the report of suspected abuse:

      (i) Occurred in a school or was related to a school-sponsored activity; or

      (ii) Involves a child and a person who is a school employee, contractor, agent or volunteer and whose conduct may be subject to actions taken by the Department of Education under ORS 339.370 to 339.400.

      (b) For the purpose of notification made under this subsection, the Department of Human Services may not disclose the name and address of, and other identifying information about, the person who made the report, but the department shall make available any information necessary to ensure the safety of the child, including the name of the school and the name of the person who may have conducted the suspected abuse. Except as provided by ORS 339.389, any person or entity to whom notification is made under this subsection may not release any information not authorized by this subsection.

      (c) When the Department of Education receives notification under this subsection, the department shall act under, and is subject to, ORS 339.389.

      (5) The Department of Human Services shall submit a report on the first day of every calendar quarter to the committees or interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to child welfare, for the purposes of public review and oversight of the quality and safety of education providers. Information provided in reports under this subsection may not contain the name of a child or any identifying information about a child. The reports must contain all of the following information about each investigation described in subsection (2) of this section that resulted in a finding, during the preceding quarter, that the report of abuse was substantiated:

      (a) The name of the education provider where the department conducted the investigation;

      (b) The approximate date that the abuse occurred;

      (c) The nature of the abuse and a brief narrative description of the abuse that occurred; and

      (d) Whether a reportable injury, sexual abuse or death resulted from the abuse.

      (6) The department may adopt any rules necessary for the administration of this section. [2019 c.618 §14; 2021 c.386 §5; 2023 c.570 §14; 2023 c.581 §7]

 

      Note: 419B.019 was added to and made a part of 419B.005 to 419B.050 by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.020 Duty of department or law enforcement agency receiving report; investigation; notice; physical examination; child’s consent; notice at conclusion of investigation. (1) If the Department of Human Services or a law enforcement agency receives a report of child abuse, the department or the agency shall immediately:

      (a) Cause an investigation to be made to determine the nature and cause of the abuse of the child; and

      (b) Make the following notifications:

      (A) To the Department of Early Learning and Care if the alleged child abuse occurred in a child care facility as defined in ORS 329A.250; or

      (B) To the Department of Education if the alleged child abuse occurred in a school, was related to a school-sponsored activity or was conduct that may be subject to actions taken by the Department of Education under ORS 339.370 to 339.400.

      (2) The Department of Human Services shall ensure that an investigation required by subsection (1) of this section is completed if the report is not investigated by a law enforcement agency.

      (3) If the alleged child abuse reported in subsection (1) of this section occurred at a child care facility or in a school, was related to a school-sponsored activity or was conduct that may be subject to actions taken by the Department of Education under ORS 339.370 to 339.400:

      (a) The Department of Human Services and the law enforcement agency shall jointly determine the roles and responsibilities of the Department of Human Services and the agency in their respective investigations; and

      (b) The Department of Human Services and the agency shall each report the outcomes of their investigations:

      (A) To the Department of Early Learning and Care if the alleged child abuse occurred in a child care facility as defined in ORS 329A.250; or

      (B) To the Department of Education if the alleged child abuse:

      (i) Occurred in a school;

      (ii) Was related to a school-sponsored activity; or

      (iii) Was conduct that may be subject to actions taken by the Department of Education under ORS 339.370 to 339.400.

      (4) If the law enforcement agency conducting the investigation finds reasonable cause to believe that abuse has occurred, the law enforcement agency shall notify the Department of Human Services by making an oral report followed by a written report to the centralized child abuse reporting system described in ORS 418.190. The department shall provide protective social services of its own or of other available social agencies if necessary to prevent further abuses to the child or to safeguard the child’s welfare.

      (5) If a child is taken into protective custody by the Department of Human Services, the department shall promptly make reasonable efforts to ascertain the name and address of the child’s parents or guardian.

      (6)(a) If a child is taken into protective custody by the Department of Human Services or a law enforcement official, the department or law enforcement official shall, if possible, make reasonable efforts to advise the parents or guardian immediately, regardless of the time of day, that the child has been taken into custody, the reasons the child has been taken into custody and general information about the child’s placement, and the telephone number of the local office of the department and any after-hours telephone numbers.

      (b) Notice may be given by any means reasonably certain of notifying the parents or guardian, including but not limited to written, telephonic or in-person oral notification. If the initial notification is not in writing, the information required by paragraph (a) of this subsection also shall be provided to the parents or guardian in writing as soon as possible.

      (c) The department also shall make a reasonable effort to notify the noncustodial parent of the information required by paragraph (a) of this subsection in a timely manner.

      (d) If a child is taken into custody while under the care and supervision of a person or organization other than the parent, the department, if possible, shall immediately notify the person or organization that the child has been taken into protective custody.

      (7) If a law enforcement officer or the Department of Human Services, when taking a child into protective custody, has reasonable cause to believe that the child has been affected by sexual abuse and rape of a child as defined in ORS 419B.005 (1)(a)(C) and that physical evidence of the abuse exists and is likely to disappear, the court may authorize a physical examination for the purposes of preserving evidence if the court finds that it is in the best interest of the child to have such an examination. Nothing in this section affects the authority of the department to consent to physical examinations of the child at other times.

      (8) A minor child of 12 years of age or older may refuse to consent to the examination described in subsection (7) of this section. The examination shall be conducted by or under the supervision of a physician licensed under ORS chapter 677, a physician assistant licensed under ORS 677.505 to 677.525 or a nurse practitioner licensed under ORS chapter 678 and, whenever practicable, trained in conducting such examinations.

      (9) When the Department of Human Services completes an investigation under this section, if the person who made the report of child abuse provided contact information to the department, the department shall notify the person about whether contact with the child was made, whether the department determined that child abuse occurred and whether services will be provided. The department is not required to disclose information under this subsection if the department determines that disclosure is not permitted under ORS 419B.035.

      (10) When the Department of Education receives a notification under subsection (1) of this section or a report on the outcomes of an investigation under subsection (3) of this section, the Department of Education shall act under, and is subject to, ORS 339.389. [1993 c.546 §16; 1993 c.622 §7a; 1997 c.130 §13; 1997 c.703 §1; 1997 c.873 §33; 2007 c.501 §4; 2007 c.781 §1; 2013 c.624 §83; 2014 c.45 §41; 2017 c.356 §41; 2019 c.141 §24; 2019 c.618 §18; 2021 c.386 §6; 2023 c.132 §7; 2023 c.554 §53; 2023 c.570 §13]

 

      419B.021 Degree requirements for persons conducting investigation or making determination regarding child. (1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, a person who conducts an investigation under ORS 419B.020, makes a determination that a child must be taken into protective custody under ORS 419B.150 or 419B.152 or makes a determination that a child should not be released to the child’s parent or other responsible person under ORS 419B.165 (1)(b) must have:

      (a) At least a bachelor’s degree in:

      (A) Human services or a field related to human services; or

      (B) A field other than one described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph, if the Department of Human Services determines by rule that the coursework completed by the person is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in human services and that the person has sufficient training in providing human services; or

      (b) An associate degree with additional training or additional certification in human services or a field related to human services, as determined by the department by rule.

      (2) Subsection (1) of this section does not apply to a law enforcement official as defined in ORS 147.005. [2011 c.431 §1; 2019 c.153 §1; 2019 c.594 §6a; 2019 c.631 §3]

 

      Note: 419B.021 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 419B or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.022 [2007 c.674 §1; 2019 c.555 §7; renumbered 418.804 in 2019]

 

      419B.023 Duties of person conducting investigation under ORS 419B.020. (1) As used in this section:

      (a) “Designated medical professional” means the person described in ORS 418.747 (9) or the person’s designee.

      (b) “Medical assessment” has the meaning given that term in ORS 418.782.

      (c) “Suspicious physical injury” includes, but is not limited to:

      (A) Burns or scalds;

      (B) Extensive bruising or abrasions on any part of the body;

      (C) Bruising, swelling or abrasions on the head, neck or face;

      (D) Fractures of any bone in a child under the age of three;

      (E) Multiple fractures in a child of any age;

      (F) Dislocations, soft tissue swelling or moderate to severe cuts;

      (G) Loss of the ability to walk or move normally according to the child’s developmental ability;

      (H) Unconsciousness or difficulty maintaining consciousness;

      (I) Multiple injuries of different types;

      (J) Injuries causing serious or protracted disfigurement or loss or impairment of the function of any bodily organ; or

      (K) Any other injury that threatens the physical well-being of the child.

      (2)(a) If a person conducting an investigation under ORS 419B.020 observes a child who has suffered suspicious physical injury and the person is certain or has a reasonable suspicion that the injury is or may be the result of abuse, the person shall, in accordance with the protocols and procedures of the county child abuse multidisciplinary team described in ORS 418.747:

      (A) Immediately photograph or cause to have photographed the suspicious physical injuries in accordance with ORS 419B.028; and

      (B) Ensure that a designated medical professional conducts a medical assessment within 48 hours, or sooner if dictated by the child’s medical needs.

      (b) Notwithstanding ORS 419B.150, the person described in paragraph (a) of this subsection may take the child into protective custody, without a court order, only for the period of time necessary to ensure compliance with the requirements of this subsection.

      (3) The requirement of subsection (2) of this section shall apply:

      (a) Each time suspicious physical injury is observed by Department of Human Services or law enforcement personnel:

      (A) During the investigation of a new allegation of abuse; or

      (B) If the injury was not previously observed by a person conducting an investigation under ORS 419B.020; and

      (b) Regardless of whether the child has previously been photographed or assessed during an investigation of an allegation of abuse.

      (4)(a) Department or law enforcement personnel shall make a reasonable effort to locate a designated medical professional. If after reasonable efforts a designated medical professional is not available to conduct a medical assessment within 48 hours, the child shall be evaluated by an available physician, a physician assistant licensed under ORS 677.505 to 677.525 or a nurse practitioner licensed under ORS 678.375 to 678.390.

      (b) If the child is evaluated by a health care provider as defined in ORS 127.505 other than a designated medical professional, the health care provider shall make photographs, clinical notes, diagnostic and testing results and any other relevant materials available to the designated medical professional for consultation within 72 hours following evaluation of the child.

      (c) The person conducting the medical assessment may consult with and obtain records from the child’s health care provider under ORS 419B.050.

      (5) Nothing in this section prevents a person conducting a child abuse investigation from seeking immediate medical treatment from a hospital emergency room or other medical provider for a child who is physically injured or otherwise in need of immediate medical care.

      (6) If the child described in subsection (2) of this section is less than five years of age, the designated medical professional may, within 14 days, refer the child for a screening for early intervention services or early childhood special education, as those terms are defined in ORS 343.035. The referral may not indicate the child is subject to a child abuse investigation unless written consent is obtained from the child’s parent authorizing such disclosure. If the child is already receiving those services, or is enrolled in the Head Start program, a person involved in the delivery of those services to the child shall be invited to participate in the county child abuse multidisciplinary team’s review of the case and shall be provided with paid time to do so by the person’s employer.

      (7) Nothing in this section limits the rights provided to minors in ORS chapter 109 or the ability of a minor to refuse to consent to the medical assessment described in this section. [2007 c.674 §3; 2009 c.296 §1; 2014 c.45 §42; 2017 c.356 §42; 2019 c.141 §25; 2019 c.594 §5]

 

      Note: 419B.023 was added to and made a part of 419B.005 to 419B.050 by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

419B.024 [2007 c.674 §4; 2017 c.469 §1; 2019 c.555 §6; renumbered 418.811 in 2019]

 

      419B.025 Immunity of person making report in good faith. Anyone participating in good faith in the making of a report of child abuse and who has reasonable grounds for the making thereof shall have immunity from any liability, civil or criminal, that might otherwise be incurred or imposed with respect to the making or content of such report. Any such participant shall have the same immunity with respect to participating in any judicial proceeding resulting from such report. [1993 c.546 §17]

 

      419B.026 Required findings for investigation conducted under ORS 419B.020. (1) An investigation conducted under ORS 419B.020 must conclude in one of the following findings:

      (a) That the report of child abuse is founded;

      (b) That the report of child abuse is unfounded; or

      (c) That the report of child abuse cannot be determined.

      (2) All investigations conducted under ORS 419B.020 must be conducted in accordance with ORS 419B.005 to 419B.050 and result in the findings described in subsection (1) of this section until all of the following criteria have been met:

      (a) The child welfare workload model for the Department of Human Services is staffed at 95 percent or greater;

      (b) A centralized, statewide child abuse hotline has been established and in operation for at least six consecutive months;

      (c) The department has completed investigations within timelines mandated by law and rule at least 90 percent of the time for at least six consecutive months;

      (d) The department has conducted in-person contacts with children who are the subject of reports of child abuse, as mandated by law and rule, in at least 90 percent of the reports of child abuse for at least six consecutive months; and

      (e) The reabuse rate for children in this state is below the national average. [2017 c.740 §2]

 

      Note: 419B.026 was added to and made a part of 419B.005 to 419B.050 by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.027 Notice of founded disposition. Whenever an investigation conducted under ORS 419B.020 results in a notice of founded disposition being delivered to the person identified as the perpetrator in the founded disposition, the notice must also be provided to the person’s attorney, if applicable. [2023 c.188 §1]

 

      Note: 419B.027 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 419B or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      Note: Sections 8 and 12, chapter 581, Oregon Laws 2023, provide:

      Sec. 8. Exception against substantiation of allegation of abuse by public education program personnel. (1) Notwithstanding ORS 419B.005 (1)(a)(K), at the conclusion of an investigation under ORS 419B.020, the Department of Human Services may not substantiate an allegation of abuse against personnel of a public education program who have not been trained to the standard established in ORS 339.300 but who impose a restraint on a student if:

      (a) The restraint is imposed in response to an imminent risk of serious bodily injury of any person;

      (b) The person imposing the restraint does not act with reckless disregard for student safety; and

      (c) The restraint does not impose a significant risk of impeding the student’s breathing.

      (2) Nothing in this section prohibits the department from finding that the public education program is responsible under section 2 of this 2023 Act [339.296] for abuse arising from the untrained personnel’s inappropriate use of restraint.

      (3) As used in this section, “public education program” and “restraint” have the meanings given those terms in ORS 339.285. [2023 c.581 §8]

      Sec. 12. Section 8 of this 2023 Act is repealed on June 30, 2028. [2023 c.581 §12]

 

      419B.028 Photographing child during investigation; photographs as records. (1) In carrying out its duties under ORS 419B.020, any law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services may photograph or cause to have photographed any child subject of the investigation for purposes of preserving evidence of the child’s condition at the time of the investigation. Photographs of the anal or genital region may be taken only by medical personnel.

      (2) When a child is photographed pursuant to ORS 419B.023, the person taking the photographs or causing to have the photographs taken shall, within 48 hours or by the end of the next regular business day, whichever occurs later:

      (a) Provide hard copies or prints of the photographs and, if available, copies of the photographs in an electronic format to the designated medical professional described in ORS 418.747 (9); and

      (b) Place hard copies or prints of the photographs and, if available, copies of the photographs in an electronic format in any relevant files pertaining to the child maintained by the law enforcement agency or the department.

      (3) For purposes of ORS 419B.035, photographs taken under authority of this section shall be considered records. [1993 c.546 §18; 2007 c.674 §5]

 

      419B.029 Power to subpoena documents and records in child abuse investigations. In connection with an investigation under ORS 419B.020, the Director of Human Services may by subpoena compel the production of documents and records, including audio records, video records, photographs and student records, that the director deems relevant or material to the investigation. [2023 c.195 §1]

 

      Note: 419B.029 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 419B or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.030 Central registry of reports. (1) A central state registry shall be established and maintained by the Department of Human Services. The local offices of the department shall report to the state registry in writing when an investigation has shown reasonable cause to believe that a child’s condition was the result of abuse even if the cause remains unknown. Each registry shall contain current information from reports cataloged both as to the name of the child and the name of the family.

      (2) When the department provides specific case information from the central state registry, the department shall include a notice that the information does not necessarily reflect any subsequent proceedings that are not within the jurisdiction of the department. [1993 c.546 §19]

 

      419B.035 Confidentiality of records; when available to others; rules. (1) Notwithstanding the provisions of ORS 192.001 to 192.170, 192.210 to 192.478 and 192.610 to 192.810 relating to confidentiality and accessibility for public inspection of public records and public documents, reports and records compiled under the provisions of ORS 419B.010 to 419B.050 are confidential and may not be disclosed except as provided in this section. The Department of Human Services shall make the records available to:

      (a) Any law enforcement agency or a child abuse registry in any other state for the purpose of subsequent investigation of child abuse;

      (b) Any physician, physician assistant licensed under ORS 677.505 to 677.525 or nurse practitioner licensed under ORS 678.375 to 678.390, at the request of the physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner, regarding any child brought to the physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner or coming before the physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner for examination, care or treatment;

      (c) Attorneys of record for the child or child’s parent or guardian in any juvenile court proceeding;

      (d) Citizen review boards established by the Judicial Department for the purpose of periodically reviewing the status of children, youths and adjudicated youths under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court under ORS 419B.100 and 419C.005. Citizen review boards may make such records available to participants in case reviews;

      (e) A court appointed special advocate in any juvenile court proceeding in which it is alleged that a child has been subjected to child abuse or neglect;

      (f) The Department of Early Learning and Care for the purpose of carrying out the functions of the department, including the certification, registration or regulation of child care facilities and child care providers and the administration of enrollment in the Central Background Registry;

      (g) The Office of Children’s Advocate;

      (h) The Teacher Standards and Practices Commission for investigations conducted under ORS 339.390 or 342.176 involving any child or any student;

      (i) Any person, upon request to the Department of Human Services, if the reports or records requested regard an incident in which a child, as the result of abuse, died or suffered serious physical injury as defined in ORS 161.015. Reports or records disclosed under this paragraph must be disclosed in accordance with ORS 192.311 to 192.478;

      (j) The Department of Early Learning and Care for purposes of applications described in ORS 329A.030 (11)(c)(G) to (J);

      (k) With respect to a report of abuse occurring at a school or in an educational setting that involves a child with a disability, Disability Rights Oregon;

      (L) The Department of Education for purposes of investigations conducted under ORS 339.391;

      (m) An education provider for the purpose of making determinations under ORS 339.388; and

      (n) A national nonprofit organization designated by the Department of Human Services that provides assistance with locating, recovering or providing services to children or youth determined by the department to be missing.

      (2)(a) When disclosing reports and records pursuant to subsection (1)(i) of this section, the Department of Human Services may exempt from disclosure the names, addresses and other identifying information about other children, witnesses, victims or other persons named in the report or record if the department determines, in written findings, that the safety or well-being of a person named in the report or record may be jeopardized by disclosure of the names, addresses or other identifying information, and if that concern outweighs the public’s interest in the disclosure of that information.

      (b) If the Department of Human Services does not have a report or record of abuse regarding a child who, as the result of abuse, died or suffered serious physical injury as defined in ORS 161.015, the department may disclose that information.

      (3) The Department of Human Services may make reports and records compiled under the provisions of ORS 419B.010 to 419B.050 available to any person, administrative hearings officer, court, agency, organization or other entity when the department determines that such disclosure is necessary to administer its child welfare services and is in the best interests of the affected child, or that such disclosure is necessary to investigate, prevent or treat child abuse and neglect, to protect children from abuse and neglect or for research when the Director of Human Services gives prior written approval. The Department of Human Services shall adopt rules setting forth the procedures by which it will make the disclosures authorized under this subsection or subsection (1) or (2) of this section. The name, address and other identifying information about the person who made the report may not be disclosed pursuant to this subsection and subsection (1) of this section.

      (4) A law enforcement agency may make reports and records compiled under the provisions of ORS 419B.010 to 419B.050 available to other law enforcement agencies, district attorneys, city attorneys with criminal prosecutorial functions and the Attorney General when the law enforcement agency determines that disclosure is necessary for the investigation or enforcement of laws relating to child abuse and neglect or necessary to determine a claim for crime victim compensation under ORS 147.005 to 147.367.

      (5)(a) A law enforcement agency, upon completing an investigation and closing the file in a specific case relating to child abuse or neglect, shall make reports and records in the case available upon request to:

      (A) Any law enforcement agency or community corrections agency in this state, to the Department of Corrections, to the Oregon Youth Authority or to the State Board of Parole and Post-Prison Supervision for the purpose of managing and supervising offenders in custody or on probation, parole, post-prison supervision or other form of conditional or supervised release; and

      (B) The Teacher Standards and Practices Commission for investigations conducted under ORS 339.390 and 342.176.

      (b) A law enforcement agency may make reports and records compiled under the provisions of ORS 419B.010 to 419B.050 available to the Oregon Youth Authority, the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission for investigations conducted under ORS 339.390 and 342.176, law enforcement, community corrections, corrections or parole agencies in an open case when the law enforcement agency determines that the disclosure will not interfere with an ongoing investigation in the case.

      (c) The name, address and other identifying information about the person who made the report may not be disclosed under this subsection or subsection (6)(b) of this section.

      (6)(a) Any record made available to a law enforcement agency or community corrections agency in this state, to the Department of Corrections, the Oregon Youth Authority, the State Board of Parole and Post-Prison Supervision or the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission or to a physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner in this state, as authorized by subsections (1) to (5) of this section, shall be kept confidential by the agency, department, board, commission, physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner. Any record or report disclosed by the Department of Human Services to other persons or entities pursuant to subsections (1) and (3) of this section shall be kept confidential.

      (b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this subsection:

      (A) A law enforcement agency, a community corrections agency, the Department of Corrections, the Oregon Youth Authority and the State Board of Parole and Post-Prison Supervision may disclose records made available to them under subsection (5) of this section to each other, to law enforcement, community corrections, corrections and parole agencies of other states and to authorized treatment providers for the purpose of managing and supervising offenders in custody or on probation, parole, post-prison supervision or other form of conditional or supervised release.

      (B) The Department of Corrections and the Oregon Youth Authority may disclose records made available to them under subsection (5) of this section regarding a person in the custody of the Department of Corrections or the Oregon Youth Authority to each other, to the court, to the district attorney and to the person’s attorney for the purpose of the person’s hearing under ORS 420A.200 to 420A.206.

      (C) A person may disclose records made available to the person under subsection (1)(i) of this section if the records are disclosed for the purpose of advancing the public interest.

      (7) Except as provided by ORS 339.389, an officer or employee of the Department of Human Services or of a law enforcement agency or any person or entity to whom disclosure is made pursuant to subsections (1) to (6) of this section may not release any information not authorized by subsections (1) to (6) of this section.

      (8) A record of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, as defined in ORS 409.225, is exempt from disclosure under subsection (1) of this section unless:

      (a) The department determines, in written findings, that failure to disclose the record is reasonably likely to jeopardize the child’s safety or well-being;

      (b) The department determines, in written findings, that disclosure of the record is necessary to provide services to the child or the child’s family; or

      (c) The child consents to the disclosure.

      (9) As used in this section, “law enforcement agency” has the meaning given that term in ORS 181A.010.

      (10) A person who violates subsection (6)(a) or (7) of this section commits a Class A violation. [1993 c.546 §§20,20a; 1995 c.278 §51; 1997 c.328 §8; 1999 c.1051 §181; 2003 c.14 §224; 2003 c.412 §1; 2003 c.591 §8; 2005 c.317 §1; 2005 c.659 §2; 2009 c.348 §§3,4; 2009 c.393 §1; 2012 c.3 §2; 2013 c.624 §84; 2014 c.45 §43; 2017 c.108 §5; 2017 c.356 §43; 2017 c.377 §1; 2017 c.616 §2; 2019 c.141 §26; 2019 c.618 §19; 2021 c.194 §1; 2021 c.386 §7; 2021 c.489 §57; 2022 c.27 §10; 2022 c.90 §9; 2023 c.129 §2; 2023 c.131 §2; 2023 c.267 §7; 2023 c.554 §54]

 

      419B.040 Certain privileges not grounds for excluding evidence in court proceedings on child abuse. (1) In the case of abuse of a child, the privileges created in ORS 40.230 to 40.255, including the psychotherapist-patient privilege, the physician-patient privilege, the privileges extended to nurses, to staff members of schools and to regulated social workers and the spousal privilege, shall not be a ground for excluding evidence regarding a child’s abuse, or the cause thereof, in any judicial proceeding resulting from a report made pursuant to ORS 419B.010 to 419B.050.

      (2) In any judicial proceedings resulting from a report made pursuant to ORS 419B.010 to 419B.050, either spouse shall be a competent and compellable witness against the other. [1993 c.546 §21; 2009 c.442 §37; 2015 c.629 §49]

 

      419B.045 Investigation conducted on school premises; notification; role of school personnel. (1) The Department of Human Services or a law enforcement agency has the authority to conduct an investigation, on school premises, of a report of child abuse.

      (2) When an investigation of a report of child abuse is conducted on school premises, the school administrator shall first be notified that the investigation is to take place, unless the school administrator is a subject of the investigation.

      (3) The department or the law enforcement agency conducting the investigation shall present adequate identification to school staff members.

      (4) After the department or law enforcement agency presents adequate identification, school staff members shall cooperate with the investigation by, at a minimum:

      (a) Allowing the department or law enforcement agency access to the child who is the suspected victim in the report of child abuse; and

      (b) Providing a private space in which to conduct an interview of the child.

      (5) The department or the law enforcement agency conducting the investigation is not required to reveal information about the investigation to the school as a condition of conducting the investigation.

      (6) The school administrator or a school staff member designated by the administrator may, at the investigator’s discretion, be present to facilitate the investigation.

      (7) The investigator shall be advised by a school administrator or a school staff member of the child’s disabling conditions, if any, prior to any interview with the child.

      (8)(a) A school administrator or school staff member may not notify any person, including the child’s parents or guardian, other than the department or law enforcement agency and any school employee necessary to enable the investigation, of an investigation described in this section and may not disclose any information obtained during an investigation.

      (b) Information obtained during an investigation is not part of the child’s school records.

      (9) A school administrator or school staff member may testify at any subsequent court proceeding relating to the investigation and may be interviewed by the respective litigants prior to any court proceeding.

      (10) A school district, school administrator or school staff member may not be held liable for civil damages as a result of compliance with this section.

      (11) This section applies solely to an investigation that involves an interview of the suspected victim in the report of child abuse or witnesses and does not apply to an investigation or interview of a person who is suspected of having committed the abuse that is the subject of the report. [1993 c.546 §22; 2003 c.14 §225; 2017 c.515 §1; 2018 c.77 §1]

 

      419B.050 Authority of health care provider to disclose information; immunity from liability. (1) Upon notice by a law enforcement agency, the Department of Human Services, a member agency of a county child abuse multidisciplinary team or a member of a county child abuse multidisciplinary team that a child abuse investigation is being conducted under ORS 419B.020, a health care provider must permit the law enforcement agency, the department, the member agency of the county child abuse multidisciplinary team or the member of the county child abuse multidisciplinary team to inspect and copy medical records, including, but not limited to, prenatal and birth records, of the child involved in the investigation without the consent of the child, or the parent or guardian of the child. A health care provider who in good faith disclosed medical records under this section is not civilly or criminally liable for the disclosure.

      (2) As used in this section, “health care provider” has the meaning given that term in ORS 192.556. [1997 c.873 §27; 1999 c.537 §3; 2001 c.104 §150; 2005 c.562 §27; 2019 c.141 §27]

 

      419B.055 Action by Attorney General for protective order on behalf of department employee; written request; eligible employees. (1) The Attorney General may bring an action in a circuit court for a citation or a stalking protective order under ORS 30.866 or 163.730 to 163.750 on behalf of an employee of the Department of Human Services who, because of being involved in the conduct described in subsection (3) of this section, is the subject of repeated and unwanted contact by another person that causes alarm or coercion to the employee. The Attorney General’s responsibility under this subsection is limited to circumstances in which an employee of the department submits a written request to the Attorney General that:

      (a) Has been approved in writing by the Director of Human Services or the director’s designee;

      (b) Sets forth sufficient facts and evidence, the truth of which has been affirmed by the employee; and

      (c) Based solely upon the opinion of the Attorney General, is an action that is likely to succeed.

      (2) The action brought under this section may not include a request for:

      (a) Special and general damages, including damages for emotional distress;

      (b) Economic or noneconomic damages;

      (c) Punitive damages; or

      (d) Attorney fees and costs.

      (3) Departmental employees on whose behalf the citation or stalking protective order may be obtained under subsection (1) of this section include employees who:

      (a) Conduct a child abuse investigation under ORS 419B.020;

      (b) Make a determination that a child must be taken into protective custody under ORS 419B.150 or 419B.152;

      (c) Make a determination that a child should not be released to the child’s parent or other responsible person under ORS 419B.165 (1)(b); and

      (d) Are involved in developing a case plan or making a placement decision for a child in the legal custody of the department. [2015 c.653 §1; 2019 c.594 §7; 2019 c.631 §4]

 

      Note: 419B.055 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 419B or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

JUVENILE COURT

 

(Generally)

 

      419B.090 Juvenile court; jurisdiction; policy. (1) The juvenile court is a court of record and exercises jurisdiction as a court of general and equitable jurisdiction and not as a court of limited or inferior jurisdiction. The juvenile court is called “The _________ Court of _________ County, Juvenile Department.”

      (2)(a) It is the policy of the State of Oregon to recognize that children are individuals who have legal rights. Among those rights are the right to:

      (A) Permanency with a safe family;

      (B) Freedom from physical, sexual or emotional abuse or exploitation; and

      (C) Freedom from substantial neglect of basic needs.

      (b) Parents and guardians have a duty to afford their children the rights listed in paragraph (a) of this subsection. Parents and guardians have a duty to remove any impediment to their ability to perform parental duties that afford these rights to their children. When a parent or guardian fails to fulfill these duties, the juvenile court may determine that it is in the best interests of the child to remove the child from the parent or guardian either temporarily or permanently.

      (c) The provisions of this chapter shall be liberally construed to the end that a child coming within the jurisdiction of the court may receive such care, guidance, treatment and control as will lead to the child’s welfare and the protection of the community.

      (3) It is the policy of the State of Oregon to safeguard and promote each child’s right to safety, stability and well-being and to safeguard and promote each child’s relationships with parents, siblings, grandparents, other relatives and adults with whom a child develops healthy emotional attachments.

      (4) It is the policy of the State of Oregon to guard the liberty interest of parents protected by the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution and to protect the rights and interests of children, as provided in subsection (2) of this section. The provisions of this chapter shall be construed and applied in compliance with federal constitutional limitations on state action established by the United States Supreme Court with respect to interference with the rights of parents to direct the upbringing of their children, including, but not limited to, the right to:

      (a) Guide the secular and religious education of their children;

      (b) Make health care decisions for their children; and

      (c) Discipline their children.

      (5) It is the policy of the State of Oregon, in those cases not described as extreme conduct under ORS 419B.502, to offer appropriate reunification services to parents and guardians to allow them the opportunity to adjust their circumstances, conduct or conditions to make it possible for the child to safely return home within a reasonable time. The state shall provide to parents and guardians with disabilities opportunities to benefit from or participate in reunification services that are equal to those extended to individuals without disabilities. The state shall provide aids, benefits and services different from those provided to parents and guardians without disabilities, when necessary to ensure that parents and guardians with disabilities are provided with an equal opportunity under this subsection. Although there is a strong preference that children live in their own homes with their own families, the state recognizes that it is not always possible or in the best interests of the child or the public for children who have been abused or neglected to be reunited with their parents or guardians. In those cases, the State of Oregon has the obligation to create or provide an alternative, safe and permanent home for the child.

      (6) It is the policy of the State of Oregon, in a case involving an Indian child, to safeguard and promote the Indian child’s connections with the Indian child’s family, culture and tribe in accordance with the policies regarding Indian children in child custody proceedings under ORS 419B.600. [1997 c.873 §2a; 1999 c.859 §22; 2001 c.686 §21; 2007 c.71 §112; 2007 c.806 §3; 2015 c.795 §1; 2019 c.514 §1; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §25; 2021 c.398 §67]

 

      419B.100 Jurisdiction; bases; Indian children. (1) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (5) of this section and ORS 107.726, the juvenile court has exclusive original jurisdiction in any case involving a person who is under 18 years of age and:

      (a) Who is beyond the control of the person’s parents, guardian or other person having custody of the person;

      (b) Whose behavior is such as to endanger the welfare of the person or of others;

      (c) Whose condition or circumstances are such as to endanger the welfare of the person or of others;

      (d) Who is dependent for care and support on a public or private child-caring agency that needs the services of the court in planning for the best interest of the person;

      (e) Whose parents or any other person or persons having custody of the person have:

      (A) Abandoned the person;

      (B) Failed to provide the person with the care or education required by law;

      (C) Subjected the person to cruelty, depravity or unexplained physical injury; or

      (D) Failed to provide the person with the care, guidance and protection necessary for the physical, mental or emotional well-being of the person;

      (f) Who is a runaway;

      (g) Who has filed a petition for emancipation pursuant to ORS 419B.550 to 419B.558; or

      (h) Who is subject to an order entered under ORS 419C.411 (7)(a).

      (2) The court shall have jurisdiction under subsection (1) of this section even though the child is receiving adequate care from the person having physical custody of the child.

      (3) The provisions of subsection (1) of this section do not prevent a court of competent jurisdiction from entertaining a civil action or suit involving a child.

      (4) The court does not have further jurisdiction as provided in subsection (1) of this section after a minor has been emancipated pursuant to ORS 419B.550 to 419B.558.

      (5) Except as provided in ORS 419B.627, jurisdiction over any child custody proceeding, as defined in ORS 419B.603, involving an Indian child is determined as provided in ORS 419B.627. [1993 c.33 §53; 1993 c.546 §10; 1993 c.643 §5; 2005 c.843 §31; 2011 c.291 §5; 2013 c.1 §61; 2019 c.594 §8; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §27; 2021 c.398 §68]

 

      419B.110 Emergency medical care; court may authorize. Whether or not a petition has been filed, if a child requires emergency medical care, including surgery, and no parent is available or willing to consent to the care, a judge of the juvenile court may authorize the care. The judge may thereafter direct the filing of a new petition. [1993 c.546 §24]

 

      419B.112 Court appointed special advocate; duties; immunity; access to information; funding; rules. (1) In every case under ORS chapter 419B, the court shall appoint a court appointed special advocate. The court appointed special advocate is deemed a party in these proceedings and may be represented by counsel, file pleadings and request hearings and may subpoena, examine and cross-examine witnesses. If the court appointed special advocate is represented by counsel, counsel shall be paid from funds in the Court Appointed Special Advocate Fund established under ORS 184.498. Counsel representing a court appointed special advocate may not be paid from moneys in the Public Defense Services Account established by ORS 151.225, from moneys appropriated to the Oregon Public Defense Commission or from Judicial Department operating funds.

      (2) Subject to the direction of the court, the duties of the court appointed special advocate are to:

      (a) Investigate all relevant information about the case;

      (b) Advocate for the child or ward, ensuring that all relevant facts are brought before the court;

      (c) Facilitate and negotiate to ensure that the court, the Department of Human Services, if applicable, and the child or ward’s attorney, if any, fulfill their obligations to the child or ward in a timely fashion; and

      (d) Monitor all court orders to ensure compliance and to bring to the court’s attention any change in circumstances that may require a modification of an order of the court.

      (3) If a juvenile court does not have a sufficient number of qualified court appointed special advocates available to it, the court may, in fulfillment of the requirements of this section, appoint a juvenile department employee or other suitable person to represent the child or ward’s interest in court pursuant to ORS 419A.012 or 419B.195.

      (4) Any person appointed as a court appointed special advocate in any judicial proceeding on behalf of the child or ward is immune from any liability for defamation or statements made in good faith by that person, orally or in writing, in the course of the case review or judicial proceeding.

      (5) Any person appointed as a court appointed special advocate, CASA Volunteer Program director, CASA Volunteer Program employee or member of the board of directors or trustees of any CASA Volunteer Program is immune from any liability for acts or omissions or errors in judgment made in good faith in the course or scope of that person’s duties or employment as part of a CASA Volunteer Program.

      (6) Whenever the court appoints a court appointed special advocate or other person under subsections (1) to (3) of this section to represent the child or ward, the court may require a parent, if able, or guardian of the estate, if the estate is able, to pay, in whole or in part, the reasonable costs of court appointed special advocate services, including reasonable attorney fees. The court’s order of payment is enforceable in the same manner as an order of support under ORS 419B.408.

      (7) Upon presentation of the order of appointment by the court appointed special advocate, any agency, hospital, school organization, division, office or department of the state, doctor, nurse or other health care provider, psychologist, psychiatrist, police department or mental health clinic shall permit the court appointed special advocate to inspect and copy, and may consult with the court appointed special advocate regarding, any records relating to the child or ward involved in the case, without the consent of the child, ward or parents.

      (8) All records and information acquired or reviewed by a court appointed special advocate during the course of official duties are deemed confidential under ORS 419A.255.

      (9) For the purposes of a Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (42 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.) grant to this state under P.L. 93-247, or any related state or federal legislation, a court appointed special advocate or other person appointed pursuant to subsections (1) to (3) of this section is deemed a guardian ad litem to represent the interests of the child or ward in proceedings before the court. [2012 c.97 §2; 2012 c.107 §105; 2017 c.630 §9; 2023 c.281 §62]

 

      Note: 419B.112 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 419B or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.115 [1993 c.546 §25; 1997 c.479 §2; 1997 c.873 §21; 1999 c.859 §7; 2001 c.214 §1; 2001 c.622 §§39,39a; 2001 c.962 §83; renumbered 419B.875 in 2001]

 

      419B.116 Intervention; caregiver relationship; rights of limited participation. (1)(a) As used in this section, “caregiver relationship” means a relationship between a person and a child or ward:

      (A) That has existed:

      (i) For the 12 months immediately preceding the initiation of the dependency proceeding;

      (ii) For at least six months during the dependency proceeding; or

      (iii) For half of the child or ward’s life if the child or ward is less than six months of age;

      (B) In which the person had physical custody of the child or ward or resided in the same household as the child or ward;

      (C) In which the person provided the child or ward on a daily basis with the love, nurturing and other necessities required to meet the child or ward’s psychological and physical needs; and

      (D) On which the child depended to meet the child or ward’s needs.

      (b) “Caregiver relationship” does not include a relationship between a child or ward and a person who is the nonrelated foster parent of the child or ward unless the relationship continued for a period of at least 12 consecutive months.

      (2) A person asserting that the person has a caregiver relationship with a child or ward may file a motion for intervention in a juvenile dependency proceeding.

      (3) Filing a motion under subsection (2) of this section is the sole means by which a person may become a party to a juvenile dependency proceeding as an intervenor. An order granting intervention under this section is exclusively for juvenile dependency proceedings and does not confer standing or rights of intervention in any other action. Intervention is not allowed in proceedings under ORS 419B.500.

      (4) A motion for intervention under subsection (2) of this section must state:

      (a) The person’s relationship to the child or ward and the person’s involvement in the child or ward’s life;

      (b) The reason that intervention is sought;

      (c) How the person’s intervention is in the best interests of the child or ward;

      (d) Why the existing parties cannot adequately present the case; and

      (e) What specific relief is being sought.

      (5)(a) If a party wishes to oppose a motion for intervention, the party must file a written objection to the motion stating the grounds for the objection no later than 21 days after the motion is filed. If no written objection is filed as provided in this paragraph, the court may grant the motion without a hearing. Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, if a written objection is filed as provided in this paragraph, the court shall hold a hearing on the motion.

      (b) If a motion for intervention does not state a prima facie case as to the facts that must be proved under paragraph (c) of this subsection, the court may deny the motion without a hearing.

      (c) If the court holds a hearing on the motion for intervention, the court may grant the motion for intervention if the person moving to intervene in the case proves by a preponderance of the evidence that:

      (A) A caregiver relationship exists between the person and the child or ward;

      (B) The intervention is in the best interests of the child or ward;

      (C) The reason for intervention and the specific relief sought are consistent with the best interests of the child or ward; and

      (D) The existing parties cannot adequately present the case.

      (6) A person granted intervention is a party to the case and, except as provided in subsection (11) of this section, may be granted such relief as the court determines to be appropriate and in the best interests of the child or ward.

      (7) A person who is not a party under ORS 419B.875 or a person who intends to file a motion for appointment as a community guardian under ORS 419B.371 may seek rights of limited participation by filing a written motion for limited participation in a juvenile court proceeding. Except as provided in subsection (9) of this section, the motion must state:

      (a) The reason that limited participation is being sought;

      (b) How the person’s limited participation is in the best interests of the child or ward;

      (c) Why the parties cannot adequately present the case; and

      (d) The specific rights of limited participation that are being sought.

      (8)(a) If a party wishes to oppose a motion filed under subsection (7) of this section, the party must file a written objection to the motion stating the grounds for the objection no later than 21 days after the motion is filed. If no written objection is filed as provided in this paragraph, the court may grant the motion without a hearing.

      (b) If a motion seeking rights of limited participation does not state a prima facie case as to the facts that must be proved under paragraph (c) of this subsection, the court may deny the motion without a hearing.

      (c) If the court holds a hearing on the motion seeking rights of limited participation, the court may grant the motion if the person seeking rights of limited participation proves by a preponderance of the evidence that:

      (A) The person’s limited participation is in the best interests of the child or ward;

      (B) The reason for limited participation and the specific rights sought are consistent with the best interests of the child or ward; and

      (C) The parties cannot adequately present the case.

      (9) The requirements of subsections (7)(c) and (8)(c)(C) of this section do not apply to a motion or court order seeking or granting limited participation when the right of limited participation sought and granted would be for the purpose of establishing a community guardianship under ORS 419B.371.

      (10) If the court grants a motion under subsection (8) of this section, the court shall specify in the order the rights of limited participation that are being granted.

      (11)(a) At any time, a person granted intervention or a person granted rights of limited participation may move to be considered a temporary placement or visitation resource for the child or ward.

      (b) At any time after a court has determined at a permanency hearing that the permanent plan for the child or ward should be something other than to return home, a person granted intervention may move to be considered the permanent placement resource for the child or ward.

      (12) The court may modify or set aside any order granting intervention or rights of limited participation as provided in ORS 419B.923. [2001 c.624 §3; 2003 c.14 §226; 2003 c.231 §3; 2003 c.315 §2; 2003 c.396 §35a; 2005 c.449 §2; 2005 c.676 §2; 2009 c.92 §1; 2009 c.182 §1; 2012 c.86 §2]

 

      419B.117 Notice to parents or guardian of child; when given; contents. (1) At the first appearance by the parents or guardian of a child before the court, the court shall inform the parents or guardian verbally and provide a standard notice describing:

      (a) The obligation of the parents or guardian to pay for compensation and reasonable expenses for counsel for the child, support of the child while the child is in the custody of a state-financed or state-supported residence and any other obligations to pay money that may arise as a result of the child being within the jurisdiction of the court;

      (b) The assignment of support rights under ORS 419B.406;

      (c) The right of the parents or guardian to appeal a decision on jurisdiction or disposition made by the court; and

      (d) The time for filing an appeal of a decision by the court.

      (2) The court shall prepare and provide the standard notice required under subsection (1) of this section.

      (3) The court shall place a notation in the record of the case of the date that the parents or guardian were provided information under this section. [1997 c.748 §2]

 

      419B.118 Venue. (1) Subject to the provisions of subsections (2), (3) and (4) of this section, a juvenile court proceeding shall commence in the county of wardship if, at the commencement of the proceeding, wardship exists as a result of proceedings under this chapter, or, in the absence of such wardship, in the county where the child resides.

      (2) If the proceeding is based on allegations of jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 (1)(a), (b) or (c), the proceeding may also commence in the county in which the alleged act or behavior took place.

      (3) If the proceeding is based on allegations of jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 (1)(b), (c), (d), (e) or (f), the proceedings may also commence in the county where the child is present when the proceeding begins.

      (4) A termination of parent-child relationship proceeding may be commenced in the county of wardship or where the child or ward resides or is found unless the child is an Indian child and the tribal court has assumed jurisdiction under ORS 419B.627. [1993 c.33 §54; 1993 c.546 §26; 2003 c.396 §36; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §57]

 

      419B.121 Return of runaway children to another state. (1) As used in this section, “home state” and “out-of-state runaway” have the meanings given those terms in ORS 419C.156.

      (2) Notwithstanding any provisions in ORS chapter 419A, 419B or 419C prohibiting the detention of children or wards, if the court determines that a child or ward is an out-of-state runaway, the court may place the out-of-state runaway in a placement that the court determines to be the least restrictive setting, including detention, necessary to ensure that the out-of-state runaway is not a danger to self or others pending the return of the out-of-state runaway to the out-of-state runaway’s home state. [1993 c.33 §55; 2019 c.382 §7]

 

      419B.124 Transfer to juvenile court from another court. If during the pendency of a proceeding in any court other than a juvenile court it is ascertained that the age of the person who is the subject of the proceeding is such that the matter is within the exclusive jurisdiction of the juvenile court, it is the duty of the court in which the proceeding is pending to transfer the proceeding to the juvenile court of the county in which the proceeding is pending. The clerk of the court transferring the proceeding shall notify the clerk of the juvenile court of the transfer. [1993 c.33 §56; 2017 c.252 §16]

 

      419B.127 Transfer to court of county of child or ward’s residence. (1) A court, on its own motion or on the motion of a party made at any time prior to disposition, shall transfer a proceeding to the court of the county where a child resides if the proceeding was initiated in a court of a county other than the county where the child resides.

      (2) A court, on its own motion or on the motion of a party made at any time during the proceeding, may transfer a proceeding to the court of the county where a child or ward resides if:

      (a) The residence of the child or ward changes during the proceeding; or

      (b) The ward has been adjudicated to be within the jurisdiction of the court under ORS 419B.100 (1)(b) or (c) and other proceedings involving the ward are pending in the county of the ward’s residence.

      (3) The clerk of a court transferring a proceeding under this section shall notify the court to which the proceeding is transferred. [1993 c.33 §57; 2003 c.396 §37; 2017 c.252 §17]

 

      419B.130 Delegation of jurisdiction by county of residence. When a juvenile court proceeding is pending in a county other than the county in which the child resides and the case is transferable under ORS 419B.124 or 419B.127, the juvenile court of the county in which the child resides may authorize the court in which the case is pending to proceed with the case in either of the following ways when it will facilitate disposition of the case without adverse effect on the interests of the child:

      (1) The court may hear, determine and dispose of the case in its entirety; or

      (2) The court may, prior to transferring the case:

      (a) Conduct a hearing into the facts alleged to bring the child within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court;

      (b) Determine the facts;

      (c) Enter an order including the court’s findings; and

      (d) Notify the juvenile court of the county in which the child resides. [1993 c.33 §58; 2017 c.252 §18]

 

      419B.132 Delegation of jurisdiction among county juvenile courts. When a proceeding is pending in the juvenile court of any county, the juvenile court of that county may authorize the juvenile court of any other county to do one or both of the following, when it will facilitate the disposition of the case without adverse effect on the interests of the child or ward:

      (1) The court may:

      (a) Conduct a hearing into the facts alleged to bring the child within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court;

      (b) Determine the facts;

      (c) Enter an order including the court’s findings; and

      (d) Notify the court in which the case is pending.

      (2) The court may assume jurisdiction over the case and administer protection supervision of the ward, when the court in which the proceeding is pending:

      (a) Finds that the ward has moved to the other county or orders as part of its disposition of the proceeding that legal custody of the ward be given to a person residing in the other county; and

      (b) Is advised that the court of the other county will accept the wardship and jurisdiction of the case. The county accepting wardship and jurisdiction shall pay the cost of administering protective supervision of the ward, unless the transferring and receiving counties otherwise agree. The county transferring jurisdiction shall pay the cost of transporting the ward, unless the transferring and receiving counties otherwise agree. [1993 c.33 §59; 2003 c.396 §38; 2017 c.252 §19]

 

      419B.135 Transfer of case; transportation of child or ward. If the child or ward who is the subject of the proceeding is, at the time of a transfer or temporary transfer provided for in ORS 419B.127, 419B.130 and 419B.132, in shelter care or for other reason needs transportation to the other county, the county in which the child or ward resides shall make such order or provision for the transportation and safekeeping of the child or ward as is appropriate in the circumstances, including an order directing any peace officer of the county in which the child or ward resides to transfer the child or ward in the manner directed. [1993 c.33 §60; 2003 c.396 §39]

 

(Protective Custody)

 

      419B.150 When protective custody authorized; protective custody order. (1) As used in this section:

      (a) “Abuse” has the meaning given that term in ORS 419B.005.

      (b) “Reasonable cause” means a subjectively and objectively reasonable belief, given all of the circumstances and based on specific and articulable facts.

      (c) “Severe harm” means:

      (A) Life-threatening damage; or

      (B) Significant or acute injury to a person’s physical, sexual or psychological functioning.

      (2) The following persons are authorized to take a child into protective custody under this section:

      (a) A peace officer, as defined in ORS 420.905;

      (b) A counselor; or

      (c) An employee of the Department of Human Services.

      (3)(a) Prior to taking a child into protective custody under this section, the person taking the child into protective custody shall conduct the inquiry described in ORS 419B.636 to determine whether the person has reason to know that the child is an Indian child.

      (b) If the person has reason to know that the child is an Indian child, the person taking the child into protective custody shall provide the emergency notification under ORS 419B.639 (1) before taking the child into protective custody.

      (4)(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, a child may be taken into protective custody without a court order only when there is reasonable cause to believe that:

      (A) There is an imminent threat of severe harm to the child;

      (B) The child poses an imminent threat of severe harm to self or others; or

      (C) There is an imminent threat that the child’s parent or guardian will cause the child to be beyond the reach of the juvenile court before the court can order that the child be taken into protective custody under subsection (7) of this section.

      (b) If the person has reason to know that the child is an Indian child, the child may be taken into protective custody without a court order only when it is necessary to prevent imminent physical damage or harm to the child.

      (5) A person authorized to take a child into protective custody shall apply for a protective custody order, as described in subsection (7) of this section, by submitting a declaration based on information and belief that sets forth with particularity:

      (a) Why protective custody is necessary and the least restrictive means available to:

      (A) Protect the child from abuse;

      (B) Prevent the child from inflicting harm on self or others;

      (C) Ensure that the child remains within the reach of the juvenile court to protect the child from abuse or to prevent the child from inflicting harm on self or others; or

      (D) If the department has reason to know that the child is an Indian child, prevent imminent physical damage or harm to the child.

      (b) Why protective custody is in the best interests of the child.

      (6)(a) The applicant under subsection (5) of this section shall deliver the declaration described in subsection (5) of this section to the juvenile court.

      (b) At the applicant’s request, instead of the declaration described in subsection (5) of this section, the judge may take an oral statement under oath. If the applicant makes the oral statement to the judge out of court, the applicant shall record the oral statement and retain a copy of the recording. The recording constitutes a declaration for the purposes of subsection (5) of this section.

      (7) The juvenile court may order that a child be taken into protective custody if, after reviewing the declaration described in subsection (5) of this section, the court:

      (a) Determines that the person complied with the inquiry requirements under ORS 419B.636;

      (b) Makes a finding, subject to the procedures under ORS 419B.636 (4), regarding whether there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child;

      (c) If the court finds that there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child, determines that the person complied with the notice requirements under ORS 419B.639 (1);

      (d) Determines that protective custody is necessary and the least restrictive means available to:

      (A) Protect the child from abuse;

      (B) Prevent the child from inflicting harm on self or others;

      (C) Ensure that the child remains within the reach of the juvenile court to protect the child from abuse or prevent the child from inflicting harm on self or others;

      (D) Ensure the safety of a child who has run away from home; or

      (E) If the court finds that there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child, prevent imminent physical damage or harm to the child; and

      (e) Determines that protective custody is in the best interests of the child.

      (8) When the court issues a protective custody order under subsection (7) of this section, the court may transmit the signed order to the applicant by a form of electronic communication approved by the court that delivers a complete printable image of the signed order. The court shall file the original order in the court record. [1993 c.33 §61; 1993 c.546 §27; 1997 c.873 §10; 1999 c.691 §1; amendments by 1999 c.691 §2 repealed by 2001 c.484 §1; 2001 c.622 §§46,47; 2001 c.686 §§1,2; 2019 c.382 §8; 2019 c.594 §3a; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §29; 2021 c.398 §54]

 

      419B.152 Protective custody of runaway child. (1) If it reasonably appears that a child is a runaway, the child may be taken into protective custody by a peace officer, counselor, employee of the Department of Human Services or any other person authorized by the juvenile court of the county in which the child is found.

      (2) When a child is taken into protective custody as a runaway under subsection (1) of this section, the peace officer or other person who takes the child into custody:

      (a)(A) Shall release the child without unnecessary delay to the custody of the child’s parent or guardian or to a shelter care facility that has agreed to provide care and services to runaway children and that has been designated by the juvenile court to provide such care and services; or

      (B) Shall follow the procedures described in ORS 419B.160, 419B.165, 419B.168 and 419B.171;

      (b) Shall, if possible, determine the preferences of the child and the child’s parent or guardian as to whether the best interests of the child are better served by placement in a shelter care facility that has agreed to provide care and services to runaway children and that has been designated by the juvenile court to provide such care and services or by release to the child’s parent or guardian; and

      (c) Notwithstanding ORS 419B.165 and subsection (1) of this section, shall release the child to a shelter care facility that has agreed to provide care and services to runaway children and that has been designated by the juvenile court to provide such care and services if it reasonably appears that the child would not willingly remain at home if released to the child’s parent or guardian. [2019 c.594 §2; 2019 c.594 §2a]

 

      419B.155 Protective custody not arrest. (1) Protective custody shall not be deemed an arrest so far as the child is concerned.

      (2) A peace officer taking a child into protective custody has all the privileges and immunities of a peace officer making an arrest. [1993 c.33 §62; 1993 c.546 §28]

 

      419B.157 Jurisdiction attaches at time of custody. Except as otherwise provided in ORS 419B.168, 419C.094 and 419C.103, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court of the county in which a child is taken into protective custody shall attach from the time the child is taken into custody. [1993 c.33 §63; 1993 c.546 §29]

 

      419B.160 Prohibition on detention; exceptions; place of holding; record; parental notice required. (1)(a) A child or ward taken into protective custody may not be placed in detention except as provided in ORS chapter 419C for a person over whom the juvenile court has jurisdiction under ORS 419C.005.

      (b) Except as provided in ORS 419C.130, a child or ward may not be held at any time in a police station, jail, prison or other place where adults are held, except that a child or ward may be held in a police station for up to five hours when necessary to obtain the child or ward’s name, age, residence and other identifying information.

      (2) All peace officers shall keep a record of children taken into protective custody and shall promptly notify the juvenile court or counselor of all children taken into protective custody.

      (3) As soon as practicable after the child is taken into protective custody, the person taking the child into protective custody shall notify the child’s parent, guardian or other person responsible for the child. The notice shall inform the parent, guardian or other person of the action taken and the time and place of the hearing.

      (4) Nothing in this section prohibits the detention of a child or ward under a material witness order, as defined in ORS 136.608. [1993 c.33 §64; 1993 c.320 §1; 1993 c.546 §30; 2003 c.396 §40; 2019 c.382 §9]

 

      419B.165 Release of child taken into custody; rules. (1) Subject to subsection (2) of this section, the person taking the child into protective custody shall release the child to the custody of the child’s parent or other responsible person in this state, except in the following cases:

      (a) Where the court has issued an order directing that the child be taken into protective custody.

      (b) Where the person taking the child into protective custody has probable cause to believe that the welfare of the child or others may be immediately endangered by the release of the child.

      (2)(a) Prior to releasing a child to the custody of the child’s noncustodial parent, a person who has taken a child into protective custody shall request the Department of Human Services to conduct a criminal records check on:

      (A) The noncustodial parent; and

      (B) All adults in the same home as the noncustodial parent.

      (b) The department shall conduct a criminal records check under ORS 181A.200 (3) based on a request received under paragraph (a) of this subsection.

      (c) The department shall adopt rules consistent with this subsection and the requirements of the Department of State Police for use of the Law Enforcement Data System. [1993 c.33 §65; 1993 c.546 §31; 2019 c.382 §10; 2019 c.631 §1]

 

      419B.168 Procedure when child is not released. (1) If a child taken into protective custody is not released as provided in ORS 419B.165 and the juvenile court for the county has not established the alternative procedure authorized in subsection (4) of this section, the person taking the child into protective custody shall, without unnecessary delay, do one of the following:

      (a) Take the child before the court or a person appointed by the court to effect disposition under ORS 419B.165.

      (b) Take the child to a place of shelter care or a public or private agency designated by the court and as soon as possible thereafter notify the court that the child has been taken into protective custody.

      (2) Where a child residing in some other county is taken into protective custody the child may be:

      (a) Released to the child’s parent or other responsible person in this state as provided in ORS 419B.165.

      (b) Delivered to a peace officer or juvenile counselor in the county in which the child resides, if such delivery can be made without unnecessary delay. In such event, the person to whom the child is delivered shall assume protective custody of the child and shall proceed as provided in this chapter.

      (3) Where a child is released or delivered as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court of the county in which the child resides shall attach from the time the child is taken into protective custody.

      (4) The juvenile court may establish, as an alternative to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, that if a child taken into protective custody is not released as provided in ORS 419B.165, procedures shall be followed that comply with the following:

      (a) The person taking the child into protective custody may communicate, by telecommunications or otherwise, with the person appointed by the court to effect disposition under ORS 419B.175.

      (b) After interviewing the person taking the child into protective custody and obtaining such other information as is considered necessary, the person appointed by the court under ORS 419B.175 to effect disposition may exercise the authority granted under that section and shall, in such case, direct that the person taking the child into protective custody release the child or deliver the child in accordance with such direction.

      (c) The person taking the child into protective custody shall comply with the direction of the person appointed by the court to effect disposition. [1993 c.33 §66; 1993 c.546 §32; 2019 c.382 §11]

 

      419B.171 Report required when child is taken into protective custody. (1) Except where the child is taken into protective custody pursuant to an order of the court, the person taking the child into protective custody shall promptly file with the court or a counselor a brief written report stating all of the following:

      (a) The child’s name, age and address.

      (b) The name and address of the person having legal or physical custody of the child.

      (c) Efforts to notify the person having legal or physical custody of the child and the results of those efforts.

      (d) Reasons for and circumstances under which the child was taken into protective custody.

      (e) If the child is not taken to court, the placement of the child.

      (f) If the child was not released, the reason why the child was not released.

      (g) If the child is not taken to court, why the type of placement was chosen.

      (h) A declaration under penalty of perjury and documentation of the person’s efforts to determine whether the person has reason to know that the child is an Indian child and the results of those efforts.

      (2) If the person has reason to know that the child is an Indian child, the report under subsection (1) of this section must also include:

      (a) The name and address of the Indian child’s parents and, if any, Indian custodian;

      (b) Confirmation that notification about the emergency proceeding has been provided as required under ORS 419B.639 (1);

      (c) If the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian is unknown, a detailed description and documentation of the efforts the person has made to locate and contact the parent or Indian custodian, including contact with the appropriate United States Bureau of Indian Affairs Regional Director;

      (d) The tribal affiliation of the Indian child and the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian;

      (e) The residence and the domicile of the Indian child;

      (f) If either the residence or the domicile of the Indian child is believed to be on a reservation or in an Alaska Native village, the name of the tribe affiliated with that reservation or village;

      (g) A specific and detailed account of the circumstances that led the person responsible for the emergency removal of the Indian child to determine that removal of the Indian child was necessary to prevent imminent physical damage or harm and to remove the Indian child;

      (h) If the Indian child is believed to reside or to be domiciled on a reservation, a statement describing the efforts that were made and are being made to contact the tribe and transfer the Indian child to the tribe’s jurisdiction; and

      (i) A statement of the efforts that have been made to assist the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian so that the Indian child may remain in or safely be returned to the custody of the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian. [1993 c.33 §67; 1993 c.546 §33; 2019 c.382 §12; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §30; 2021 c.398 §55]

 

      419B.175 Initial disposition of child taken into protective custody. (1) This subsection establishes the authority and procedures that apply to a person designated by a court to effect disposition of a child taken into protective custody or brought before the court under ORS 419B.160, 419B.165, 419B.168 or 419B.171. The person shall, when the person has taken protective custody of a child or has authority to effect disposition of a child taken into protective custody:

      (a) Release the child to the custody of a parent, guardian or other responsible person;

      (b) Release the child on the child’s own recognizance when appropriate;

      (c) Subject to ORS 419B.121 or 419B.180, place the child in shelter care or detention. The child shall be placed in shelter care rather than detention, unless the person has probable cause to believe that the court will be able to detain the child under ORS 419B.121; or

      (d) Pursuant to order of the court made after the filing of a petition, hold, retain or place the child in shelter care subject to further order.

      (2) If the child is released under subsection (1)(a) of this section, the person releasing the child shall inform the juvenile court. [1993 c.33 §69; 1993 c.546 §35; 2019 c.382 §13]

 

(Shelter Hearings)

 

      419B.180 Shelter facilities. The juvenile court of each county shall designate the place or places in which children are to be placed in shelter care when taken into protective custody. [1993 c.33 §68; 1993 c.546 §34; 2019 c.382 §14]

 

      419B.183 Speedy hearing required. A child or ward may not be held in shelter care more than 24 hours, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and judicial holidays, except on order of the court made pursuant to a hearing. [1993 c.33 §70; 2003 c.396 §41; 2019 c.382 §15]

 

      419B.185 Evidentiary hearing. (1) When a child or ward is taken, or is about to be taken, into protective custody pursuant to ORS 419B.150, 419B.152, 419B.160, 419B.165, 419B.168 or 419B.171 and placed in shelter care, a parent, child or ward shall be given the opportunity to present evidence to the court at the hearings specified in ORS 419B.183, and at any subsequent review hearing, that the child or ward can be returned home without further danger of suffering physical injury or emotional harm, endangering or harming others, or not remaining within the reach of the court process prior to adjudication.

      (2) When the court conducts a hearing described in subsection (1) of this section, unless the court has previously found that the child is an Indian child, before the court may enter an order taking a child or ward into protective custody the court shall inquire and make a finding, subject to the procedures under ORS 419B.636 (4), regarding whether there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child.

      (3)(a) At a hearing described in subsection (1) of this section, the court shall make written findings as to whether the Department of Human Services has made reasonable efforts or, if the child is an Indian child, active efforts to prevent or eliminate the need for removal of the child or ward from the home and to make it possible for the child or ward to safely return home. When the court finds that no services were provided but that reasonable services would not have eliminated the need for protective custody, the court shall consider the department to have made reasonable efforts or, if the child or ward is an Indian child, active efforts to prevent or eliminate the need for protective custody. The court shall include in the written findings a brief description of the preventive and reunification efforts made by the department.

      (b) In determining whether a child or ward shall be removed or continued out of home, the court shall consider whether the provision of reasonable services can prevent or eliminate the need to separate the family.

      (c) In determining whether the department has made reasonable efforts or, if the child or ward is an Indian child, active efforts to prevent or eliminate the need for removal of the child or ward from the home and to make it possible for the child or ward to safely return home, the court shall consider the child or ward’s health and safety the paramount concerns.

      (d) The court shall make a written finding in every order of removal that describes:

      (A) Why it is in the best interests of the child or ward that the child or ward be removed from the home or continued in care; and

      (B) If the child or ward is an Indian child, why the Indian child’s removal or continuation in care is necessary to prevent imminent physical damage or harm to the Indian child.

      (e) When the court determines that a child or ward shall be removed from the home or continued in care, the court shall make written findings whether the department made diligent efforts pursuant to ORS 419B.192. The court shall include in its written findings a brief description of the efforts made by the department.

      (f) The court may receive testimony, reports and other evidence without regard to whether the evidence is admissible under ORS 40.010 to 40.210 and 40.310 to 40.585 if the evidence is relevant to the determinations and findings required under this section. As used in this paragraph, “relevant evidence” has the meaning given that term in ORS 40.150.

      (4) To aid the court in making the written findings required by subsection (3) of this section, the department shall present written documentation to the court outlining:

      (a) The efforts made to prevent taking the child or ward into protective custody and to provide services to make it possible for the child or ward to safely return home;

      (b) The efforts the department made pursuant to ORS 419B.192;

      (c) Why protective custody is in the best interests of the child or ward; and

      (d) If the child or ward is an Indian child, why protective custody is necessary to prevent imminent physical damage or harm to the Indian child.

      (5)(a)(A) The court may not enter an order taking a child or ward into protective custody under this section unless, after review of documentation provided by the department, the court makes written findings that the department satisfied the inquiry requirements under ORS 419B.636 (1) and, if applicable, the notice requirements under ORS 419B.639 (1).

      (B) If the court finds, subject to the procedures under ORS 419B.636 (4), that there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child, the court shall order that the child or ward is to be treated as an Indian child.

      (b) The court may not enter an order taking an Indian child into protective custody unless after holding a hearing the court finds in writing:

      (A) That removal of the child or ward is in the best interest, as described in ORS 419B.612, of the child or ward; and

      (B) That a preponderance of the evidence indicates that protective custody is necessary to prevent imminent physical damage or harm to the child.

      (c)(A) If the child or ward is an Indian child and the court enters a protective custody order under this section, the order must direct the department to immediately notify the court if new information indicates that the emergency necessitating the protective custody of the Indian child has changed.

      (B) Whenever the court receives notice from the department that the emergency necessitating the protective custody of the Indian child has changed, the court shall promptly hold a hearing under this section to determine whether protective custody continues to be necessary.

      (C) The court shall immediately terminate the protective custody of an Indian child if the court determines that protective custody is no longer necessary to prevent imminent physical damage or harm to the Indian child.

      (d) If the child or ward is an Indian child, a protective order under this section may not be continued for more than 30 days unless the court:

      (A) Has set the case for a hearing on the petition alleging jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 (1);

      (B) Determines that restoring the Indian child to the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian would subject the Indian child to imminent physical damage or harm;

      (C) Despite diligent efforts, has been unable to transfer the proceeding to the jurisdiction of the Indian child’s tribe; or

      (D) Has been unable to set the case for a hearing on the petition showing the child or ward to be within the court’s jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 for a reason other than scheduling or availability of counsel and the reason has been documented in writing on the record.

      (6) As used in this section, “active efforts” has the meaning described in ORS 419B.645. [1993 c.33 §71; 1993 c.295 §5; 1993 c.546 §123; 1997 c.873 §19; 1999 c.859 §8; 2001 c.686 §3; 2003 c.355 §1; 2003 c.396 §42; 2007 c.806 §4; 2019 c.382 §16; 2019 c.594 §10; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §31; 2021 c.398 §56]

 

      419B.190 [1993 c.295 §2; 1997 c.863 §3; 1999 c.65 §1; 2001 c.622 §37; renumbered 419B.845 in 2001]

 

(Placement of Child or Ward)

 

      419B.192 Placement of child or ward; preference given to relatives and caregivers; written findings of court required. (1) As used in this section:

      (a) “Caregiver relationship” has the meaning given that term in ORS 419B.116.

      (b) “Placement” includes adoptive placement of a child or ward, selection of a guardian for a child or ward or placement or continuation of placement of a child or ward in substitute care.

      (2) If the court finds that a child or ward is in need of placement, there shall be a preference given to placement of the child or ward with relatives, with current caretakers and with persons who have a caregiver relationship with the child or ward. The Department of Human Services shall make diligent efforts to place the child or ward with such persons and shall report to the court the efforts made by the department to effectuate that placement.

      (3) If a child or ward in need of placement has a sibling also in need of placement, the department shall make diligent efforts to place the siblings together and shall report to the court the efforts made by the department to carry out the placement, unless the court finds that placement of the siblings together is not in the best interests of the child or the ward or the child’s or the ward’s sibling.

      (4) In attempting to place the child or ward pursuant to subsections (2) and (3) of this section, the department shall consider the following:

      (a) The ability of the person being considered to provide safety for the child or ward, including a willingness to cooperate with any restrictions placed on contact between the child or ward and others, and to prevent anyone from influencing the child or ward in regard to the allegations of the case;

      (b) The ability of the person being considered to support the efforts of the department to implement the permanent plan for the child or ward;

      (c) The ability of the person being considered to meet the child or ward’s physical, emotional and educational needs, including the child or ward’s need to continue in the same school or educational placement;

      (d) The ability of the person being considered to maintain safe, long-term contact with siblings, relatives and caregivers known to the child or ward and others with whom the child or ward has developed an emotional attachment;

      (e) Which person has the closest existing personal relationship with the child or ward if more than one person requests to have the child or ward placed with them pursuant to this section; and

      (f) The ability of the person being considered to provide a placement for the child’s or ward’s sibling who is also in need of placement or continuation in substitute care.

      (5) When the court is required to make findings regarding the department’s diligent efforts to place a child or ward with relatives, current caretakers or persons with a caregiver relationship under subsection (2) of this section, and the court determines that, contrary to the placement decision of the department, placement with a relative, current caretaker or caregiver is not in the best interest of the child or ward under ORS 419B.349, the court shall make written findings setting forth the reasons why the court finds that placement of the child or ward with an available relative, current caretaker or caregiver is not in the best interest of the child.

      (6) Notwithstanding subsections (2) to (5) of this section, in cases where there is reason to know, as described in ORS 419B.636, the child or ward is an Indian child, the department shall make diligent efforts to place the child or ward according to the placement preferences described in ORS 419B.654.

      (7) The department may not move a child or ward who is in substitute care for the sole purpose of preventing the establishment of a caregiver relationship or a current caretaker relationship. [1997 c.479 §4; 1999 c.569 §9; 2003 c.396 §43; 2005 c.449 §1; 2005 c.521 §2; 2007 c.806 §5; 2009 c.565 §1; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §32; 2023 c.291 §4]

 

      419B.193 Search for substitute care placements among relatives; notices to parents and certain relatives. (1) If the Department of Human Services places a child or ward in substitute care, the department shall immediately begin searching for potential substitute care placements from among the relatives of the child or ward.

      (2) If the department places a child or ward with a person who is not the child’s relative, when conducting the search under this section, the department shall provide written notification to the parents and any relative identified by the department as a potential placement resource or prospective adoptive parent that the nonrelative foster parent will have equal status or priority under ORS 109.270 and 419B.192 as a prospective adoptive parent if the nonrelative foster parent cares for the child or ward, or at least one sibling of the child or ward, for at least 12 cumulative months or, if the child, ward or sibling is younger than two years of age, for one-half of the child’s, ward’s or sibling’s life, calculated cumulatively. [2023 c.291 §2]

 

      Note: Section 7 (1), chapter 291, Oregon Laws 2023, provides:

      Sec. 7. (1) Section 2 of this 2023 Act [419B.193] and the amendments to ORS 109.270 and 419B.192 by sections 3 and 4 of this 2023 Act apply to any placement decision made on or after the effective date of this 2023 Act [July 13, 2023] and to any appeal of a placement decision that is under consideration on the effective date of this 2023 Act. [2023 c.291 §7(1)]

 

      419B.194 Participation in extracurricular activities; reasonable and prudent parent standard; fees; rules. (1) As used in this section:

      (a) “Extracurricular activities” means age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate activities as follows:

      (A) Activities or items that are generally accepted as suitable for children or wards of the same chronological age or level of maturity or that are determined to be developmentally appropriate for a child or ward, based on the development of cognitive, emotional, physical and behavioral capacities that are typical for an age or age group; and

      (B) In the case of a specific child or ward, activities or items that are suitable for the child or ward based on the developmental stages attained by the child or ward with respect to the cognitive, emotional, physical and behavioral capacities of the child or ward.

      (b) “Reasonable and prudent parent standard” means the standard, characterized by careful and sensible parental decisions that maintain the health, safety and best interests of a child or ward while encouraging the emotional and developmental growth of the child or ward, that a substitute care provider shall use when determining whether to allow a child or ward in substitute care to participate in extracurricular activities.

      (2)(a) The Department of Human Services shall, in accordance with rules adopted by the department, ensure that a substitute care provider for a child or ward in the care or custody of the department:

      (A) Provides an opportunity for the child or ward to participate in at least one ongoing extracurricular activity based on availability and the interests of the child or ward; and

      (B) Applies a reasonable and prudent parent standard when determining such participation.

      (b) The department and the substitute care provider shall confer to determine the party that will be responsible for payment of any fee or charge related to a child’s or ward’s participation in an extracurricular activity under this section.

      (3) Nothing in subsection (2) of this section shall be construed to prohibit a child or ward from participating, or a substitute care provider from allowing a child or ward to participate, in a summer camp or religious services. However, participation in a summer camp or religious services alone does not satisfy the requirements of subsection (2) of this section. [2015 c.472 §2]

 

(Counsel)

 

      419B.195 Appointment of counsel for child or ward; access of appointed counsel to records of child or ward. (1) If the child, ward, parent or guardian requests counsel for the child or ward but is without sufficient financial means to employ suitable counsel possessing skills and experience commensurate with the nature of the petition and the complexity of the case, the court may appoint suitable counsel to represent the child or ward at state expense if the child or ward is determined to be financially eligible under the policies, procedures, standards and guidelines of the Oregon Public Defense Commission. Whenever requested to do so, the court shall appoint counsel to represent the child or ward in a case filed pursuant to ORS 419B.100. The court may not substitute one appointed counsel for another except pursuant to the policies, procedures, standards and guidelines of the Oregon Public Defense Commission.

      (2) Upon presentation of the order of appointment under this section by the attorney for the child or ward, any agency, hospital, school organization, division or department of the state, doctor, nurse or other health care provider, psychologist, psychiatrist, police department or mental health clinic shall permit the attorney to inspect and copy any records of the child or ward involved in the case, without the consent of the child or ward or parents. This subsection does not apply to records of a police agency relating to an ongoing investigation prior to charging. [1993 c.33 §72; 1993 c.234 §1; 1993 c.546 §38; 2001 c.962 §43; 2003 c.396 §§44,45; 2003 c.449 §§9,46; 2023 c.281 §63]

 

      419B.198 Responsibility for payment of costs related to provision of appointed counsel for child or ward. (1) When the court appoints counsel to represent a child or ward, it may order the parent, if able, or guardian of the estate, if the estate is able, to pay to the Public Defense Services Account established by ORS 151.225, through the clerk of the court, in full or in part the administrative costs of determining the ability of the parents or estate to pay for legal services and the costs of the legal and other services that are related to the provision of appointed counsel.

      (2) The test of the parent’s or estate’s ability to pay costs under subsection (1) of this section is the same test as applied to appointment of counsel for defendants under ORS 135.050 or under the policies, procedures, standards and guidelines adopted under ORS 151.216. If counsel is provided at state expense, the court shall apply this test in accordance with the guidelines adopted by the Oregon Public Defense Commission under ORS 151.485.

      (3) If counsel is provided at state expense, the court shall determine the amount the parents or estate is required to pay for the costs of administrative, legal and other services related to the provision of appointed counsel in the same manner as this amount is determined under ORS 151.487.

      (4) The court’s order of payment is enforceable in the same manner as an order of support under ORS 419B.408. [1993 c.33 §73; 1997 c.761 §6; 2001 c.962 §44; 2003 c.396 §§46,47; 2003 c.449 §10; 2012 c.107 §46; 2023 c.281 §64]

 

      419B.201 Compensation for court-appointed counsel for child or ward under ORS 135.055. When the court appoints counsel for the child or ward and the child or ward is determined to be entitled to, and financially eligible for, appointment of counsel at state expense, and the parent or guardian is without sufficient financial means to employ counsel, the compensation for counsel and reasonable fees and expenses of investigation, preparation and presentation paid or incurred shall be determined and paid as provided in ORS 135.055. [1993 c.33 §74; 2001 c.962 §45; 2003 c.396 §§48,49; 2003 c.449 §30]

 

      419B.205 Appointment of counsel for parent or legal guardian. (1) Counsel shall be appointed for the parent or legal guardian whenever the nature of the proceedings and due process so require, and when the parent or legal guardian has been determined by the court to be eligible to receive appointed counsel under the standard in ORS 135.050 or the policies, procedures, standards and guidelines adopted under ORS 151.216. In deciding whether to appoint counsel under this section, the court shall consider the following factors:

      (a) The duration and degree of invasiveness of the interference with the parent-child relationship that possibly could result from the proceeding;

      (b) The complexity of the issues and evidence;

      (c) The nature of allegations and evidence contested by the parent or legal guardian; and

      (d) The effect the facts found or the disposition in the proceeding may have on later proceedings or events, including but not limited to termination of parental rights or criminal proceedings.

      (2) The court may not substitute one appointed counsel for another except pursuant to the policies, procedures, standards and guidelines adopted under ORS 151.216. [1993 c.33 §75; 2001 c.962 §46; 2003 c.449 §§11,47]

 

      419B.208 Other law applicable to appointment of counsel. Appointment of counsel for the child, ward or parent is subject to ORS 135.055, 151.216 and 151.219. [1993 c.33 §76; 2001 c.962 §47; 2003 c.396 §§50,51]

 

      419B.211 Motion to withdraw as counsel. (1) When a parent or guardian is required to appear at a hearing related to a petition to establish jurisdiction or a petition to establish permanent guardianship or terminate parental rights, if the parent or guardian fails to appear at the hearing without reasonable explanation, the attorney for the parent or guardian may move to withdraw from representing the parent or guardian.

      (2) The attorney shall explain to the court the basis for a motion to withdraw under this section.

      (3) The court may grant a motion to withdraw as counsel under this section. [2007 c.497 §2]

 

(Educational Surrogate)

 

      419B.220 Appointment of surrogate. (1) Upon the request of any party, the court shall appoint a surrogate for a child who is temporarily or permanently in the custody of, or committed to, a public or private agency through the action of the juvenile court if:

      (a) The court finds that the child may be eligible for special education programs because of a disabling condition as provided in ORS chapter 343;

      (b) The child does not already have a surrogate appointed by a school district or other educational agency; and

      (c) The requesting party nominates a person who is willing to serve as the surrogate and who meets the requirements described in subsection (2) of this section.

      (2) A surrogate appointed under this section:

      (a) May not be an employee of the state educational agency, a school district or any other agency that is involved in the education or care of the child;

      (b) May not have a conflict of interest that would interfere with the surrogate representing the special education interests of the child;

      (c) Shall have knowledge and skills that ensure that the surrogate can adequately represent the child in special education decisions; and

      (d) May not be a person who is the child’s parent, guardian or former guardian if:

      (A) At any time while the child was under the care, custody or control of the person, a court entered an order:

      (i) Taking the child into protective custody under ORS 419B.150; or

      (ii) Committing the child to the legal custody of the Department of Human Services for care, placement and supervision under ORS 419B.337; and

      (B) The court entered a subsequent order that:

      (i) The child should be permanently removed from the person’s home, or continued in substitute care, because it was not safe for the child to be returned to the person’s home, and no subsequent order of the court was entered that permitted the child to return to the person’s home before the child’s wardship was terminated under ORS 419B.328; or

      (ii) Terminated the person’s parental rights under ORS 419B.500 and 419B.502 to 419B.524. [1993 c.33 §77; 2005 c.662 §14; 2011 c.194 §8]

 

      419B.223 Duties and tenure of surrogate. A person that is appointed surrogate for a ward has the duty and authority to protect the due process rights of the ward with respect to the provision of free appropriate public education. A surrogate appointed by the court shall immediately apply to the attending school district for an evaluation of the ward’s eligibility for special education and shall participate in the development of the ward’s educational plan as provided in ORS chapter 343. The duties and responsibilities of the surrogate shall continue until whichever of the following occurs first:

      (1) The ward is 21 years of age;

      (2) The ward is determined to be no longer eligible for special education; or

      (3) The juvenile court terminates wardship and determines that the child’s parent or guardian is both known and available to protect the special educational rights of the child. [1993 c.33 §78; 2003 c.396 §52]

 

      419B.230 [1993 c.33 §85; 1993 c.546 §39; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

(Guardian Ad Litem for Parent)

 

      419B.231 Appointment; hearing; findings. (1) In a proceeding under this chapter, including a proceeding for the termination of parental rights, the court, on its own motion or on the written or oral motion of a party in the proceeding, may appoint a guardian ad litem for a parent involved in the proceeding as provided in this section.

      (2) The court shall conduct a hearing to determine whether to appoint a guardian ad litem in a proceeding under this chapter if:

      (a) A party moves for the appointment and the affidavit or oral representations submitted in support of the motion state facts that, if proved at a hearing under this section, would establish that it is more probable than not that:

      (A) Due to the parent’s mental or physical disability or impairment, the parent lacks substantial capacity either to understand the nature and consequences of the proceeding or to give direction and assistance to the parent’s attorney on decisions the parent must make in the proceeding; and

      (B) The appointment of a guardian ad litem is necessary to protect the parent’s rights in the proceeding during the period of the parent’s disability or impairment; or

      (b) The court has a reasonable belief that:

      (A) Due to the parent’s mental or physical disability or impairment, the parent lacks substantial capacity either to understand the nature and consequences of the proceeding or to give direction and assistance to the parent’s attorney on decisions the parent must make in the proceeding; and

      (B) The appointment of a guardian ad litem is necessary to protect the parent’s rights in the proceeding during the period of the parent’s disability or impairment.

      (3)(a) A court may not appoint a guardian ad litem under this section unless the court conducts a hearing. At the hearing, the court may receive testimony, reports and other evidence without regard to whether the evidence is admissible under ORS 40.010 to 40.210 and 40.310 to 40.585 if the evidence is:

      (A) Relevant to the findings required under this section; and

      (B) Of a type commonly relied upon by reasonably prudent persons in the conduct of their serious affairs.

      (b) For purposes of this subsection, evidence is relevant if it is “relevant evidence” as defined in ORS 40.150.

      (4) A court may not appoint a guardian ad litem for a parent unless the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence presented at the hearing that:

      (a) Due to the parent’s mental or physical disability or impairment, the parent lacks substantial capacity either to understand the nature and consequences of the proceeding or to give direction and assistance to the parent’s attorney on decisions the parent must make in the proceeding; and

      (b) The appointment of a guardian ad litem is necessary to protect the parent’s rights in the proceeding during the period of the parent’s disability or impairment.

      (5) The fact that a guardian ad litem has been appointed under this section may not be used as evidence of mental or emotional illness in any juvenile court proceeding, any civil commitment proceeding or any other civil proceeding. [2005 c.450 §2]

 

      419B.233 [1993 c.33 §87; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.234 Qualifications; duties; privilege. (1) A person appointed as a guardian ad litem under ORS 419B.231:

      (a) Must be a licensed mental health professional or attorney;

      (b) Must be familiar with legal standards relating to competence;

      (c) Must have skills and experience in representing persons with mental and physical disabilities or impairments; and

      (d) May not be a member of the parent’s family.

      (2) The guardian ad litem is not a party in the proceeding but is a representative of the parent.

      (3) The guardian ad litem shall:

      (a) Consult with the parent, if the parent is able, and with the parent’s attorney and make any other inquiries as are appropriate to assist the guardian ad litem in making decisions in the juvenile court proceeding.

      (b) Make legal decisions that the parent would ordinarily make concerning the juvenile court proceeding including, but not limited to, whether to:

      (A) Admit or deny the allegations of any petition;

      (B) Agree to or contest jurisdiction, wardship, temporary commitment, guardianship or permanent commitment;

      (C) Accept or decline a conditional postponement; or

      (D) Agree to or contest specific services or placement.

      (c) Make decisions concerning the adoption of a child of the parent including release or surrender, certificates of irrevocability and consent to adoption under ORS 109.301, 109.302 or 418.270 and agreements under ORS 109.268.

      (d) Control the litigation and provide direction to the parent’s attorney on the decisions that would ordinarily be made by the parent in the proceeding.

      (e) Inform the court if the parent no longer needs a guardian ad litem.

      (4) In making decisions under subsection (3) of this section, the guardian ad litem shall make the decisions consistent with what the guardian ad litem believes the parent would decide if the parent did not lack substantial capacity to either understand the nature and consequences of the proceeding or give direction or assistance to the parent’s attorney on decisions the parent must make in the proceeding.

      (5) The parent’s attorney shall follow directions provided by the guardian ad litem on decisions that are ordinarily made by the parent in the proceeding. The parent’s attorney shall inquire at every critical stage in the proceeding as to whether the parent’s competence has changed and, if appropriate, shall request removal of the guardian ad litem.

      (6)(a) A parent for whom a guardian ad litem has been appointed under ORS 419B.231 has a privilege to refuse to disclose and to prevent any other person from disclosing confidential communications made for the purpose of facilitating the rendition of professional services to the parent:

      (A) Between the guardian ad litem and the parent’s attorney or a representative of the attorney; or

      (B) Between the guardian ad litem and the parent.

      (b) The privilege created by this subsection:

      (A) May be claimed by the parent or the guardian ad litem. The guardian ad litem may claim the privilege only on behalf of the parent.

      (B) Is subject to ORS 40.280, 40.285 and 40.290. [2005 c.450 §3; 2021 c.398 §69]

 

      419B.236 [1993 c.33 §88; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.237 Duration of appointment; compensation. (1) The appointment of a guardian ad litem under ORS 419B.231 continues until:

      (a) The court terminates the appointment;

      (b) The juvenile court proceeding is dismissed; or

      (c) The parent’s parental rights are terminated, unless the court continues the appointment.

      (2) A party to the proceeding or the attorney for the parent for whom a guardian ad litem has been appointed may request removal of the guardian ad litem. The court:

      (a) Shall remove the guardian ad litem if the court determines that the parent no longer lacks substantial capacity either to understand the nature and consequences of the proceeding or to give direction and assistance to the parent’s attorney on decisions the parent must make in the proceeding; or

      (b) May remove the guardian ad litem on other grounds as the court determines appropriate.

      (3) The Oregon Public Defense Commission shall compensate a guardian ad litem for duties the guardian ad litem performs in the proceeding from funds appropriated to the commission. [2005 c.450 §4; 2023 c.281 §65]

 

      419B.239 [1993 c.33 §89; 1993 c.546 §40; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.242 [1993 c.33 §90; 1993 c.546 §41; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.245 [1993 c.33 §91; 2001 c.622 §38; renumbered 419B.872 in 2001]

 

      419B.260 [1993 c.546 §43 (enacted in lieu of 1993 c.33 §92); 1997 c.707 §31; 1997 c.873 §12; 1999 c.302 §1; 2001 c.622 §36; renumbered 419B.806 in 2001]

 

      419B.265 [1993 c.33 §93; 1993 c.546 §44; 1995 c.273 §21; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.268 [1993 c.33 §94; 1993 c.295 §3; 1993 c.546 §45; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.271 [1993 c.33 §95; 1993 c.295 §4; 1993 c.546 §46; 1995 c.273 §22; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.274 [1993 c.33 §96; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.277 [1993 c.33 §97; 1993 c.546 §47; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.280 [1993 c.33 §98; renumbered 419B.827 in 2001]

 

      419B.282 [1993 c.33 §99; 2001 c.622 §48; renumbered 419B.842 in 2001]

 

      419B.285 [1993 c.33 §100; 1993 c.546 §48; 2001 c.622 §41; renumbered 419B.914 in 2001]

 

      419B.300 [1993 c.546 §50; 2001 c.622 §40; renumbered 419B.881 in 2001]

 

(Hearings)

 

      419B.305 When hearing must be held; continuation; priority. (1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, no later than 60 days after a petition alleging that a child is within the jurisdiction of the court under ORS 419B.100 has been filed, the court shall hold a hearing on the petition and enter an order under ORS 419B.325 (1). Upon written order supported by factual findings of good cause, the court may continue a petition beyond 60 days.

      (2) At the commencement of the hearing, unless the court has entered an order finding that the child is an Indian child, the court shall inquire and make a finding, subject to the procedures under ORS 419B.636 (4), regarding whether there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child.

      (3)(a) If the child is an Indian child and if the court found under ORS 419B.185 (5)(b)(B) that protective custody is necessary to prevent imminent physical damage or harm to the child, no later than 30 days after the petition is filed, the court shall hold the hearing and enter the order described in subsection (1) of this section, unless:

      (A) The child has been returned to the child’s parent or Indian custodian;

      (B) The court orders the child to be returned to the child’s parent or Indian custodian;

      (C) The court continues the protective order regarding the child for more than 30 days as provided in ORS 419B.185 (5)(d); or

      (D) The court grants the child’s parent, Indian custodian or tribe an extension of time to prepare for participation in the hearing as provided in ORS 419B.639 (5).

      (b) The court may not schedule a hearing on the petition, or enter an order on the petition, unless the inquiry and notice requirements under ORS 419B.636 (2) and 419B.639 (2) and all relevant timelines have been followed.

      (4) No later than 30 days after a petition alleging jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 is filed, all parties shall comply with ORS 419B.881.

      (5) When a person denies allegations in the petition, the court shall set the case for a hearing within the time limits prescribed by subsection (1) of this section. Upon written order supported by factual findings of good cause, the court may continue the hearing beyond the 60-day time limit.

      (6) Upon expiration of any continuance granted by this section, the court shall give a petition filed under ORS 419B.100 that is beyond the time limit imposed by subsection (1) of this section the highest priority on the court docket. [1997 c.873 §18; 1999 c.859 §9; 2001 c.622 §53; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §34; 2021 c.398 §57]

 

      419B.310 Conduct of hearings. (1) The hearing shall be held by the court without a jury and may be continued from time to time. During the hearing of a case filed pursuant to ORS 419B.100, the court, on its own motion or upon the motion of a party, may take testimony from any child appearing as a witness and may exclude the child’s parents and other persons if the court finds such action would be likely to be in the best interests of the child. However, the court may not exclude the attorney for each party and the testimony shall be reported.

      (2) Stenographic notes or other report of the hearings shall be taken only when required by the court.

      (3)(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the facts alleged in the petition showing the child to be within the jurisdiction of the court as provided in ORS 419B.100 (1), unless admitted, must be established:

      (A) By a preponderance of competent evidence; or

      (B) If the child is an Indian child, by clear and convincing competent evidence.

      (b) The evidence under paragraph (a)(B) of this section must:

      (A) Include testimony of one or more qualified expert witnesses under ORS 419B.642, demonstrating that the Indian child’s continued custody by the child’s parent or custody by the child’s Indian custodian is likely to result in serious emotional or physical damage to the Indian child; and

      (B) Show a causal relationship between the particular conditions in the Indian child’s home and the likelihood that the continued custody of the Indian child by the child’s parent or custody by the child’s Indian custodian will result in serious emotional or physical damage to the particular Indian child who is the subject of the child custody proceeding, as defined in ORS 419B.603. Evidence that shows the existence of community or family poverty, isolation, single parenthood, custodian age, crowded or inadequate housing, substance abuse or nonconforming social behavior does not, by itself, establish a causal relationship as required by this paragraph.

      (c) As used in this subsection, “custody” and “continued custody” have the meanings described in ORS 419B.606.

      (4) If the court finds under ORS 419B.305 (2), or at any time prior to the commencement of the hearing, that there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child, the jurisdictional requirements of ORS 419B.305 and 419B.627 must be met before the court may assume jurisdiction of the case. [1993 c.33 §101; 1993 c.546 §51; 2001 c.622 §54; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §35; 2021 c.398 §70]

 

      419B.315 [1993 c.546 §53; 2001 c.622 §55; renumbered 419B.884 in 2001]

 

      419B.317 [1993 c.33 §102; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.320 [1993 c.33 §103; 2001 c.104 §151; 2001 c.338 §1; 2001 c.962 §48; renumbered 419B.908 in 2001]

 

(Disposition)

 

      419B.325 Disposition required; evidence. (1) At the termination of the hearing or hearings in the proceeding, the court shall enter an appropriate order directing the disposition to be made of the case.

      (2) For the purpose of determining proper disposition of the ward, testimony, reports or other material relating to the ward’s mental, physical and social history and prognosis may be received by the court without regard to their competency or relevancy under the rules of evidence.

      (3) If the child is an Indian child, the court’s order under this section must be in compliance with the placement preferences described in ORS 419B.654. [1993 c.33 §104; 2003 c.396 §53; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §36; 2021 c.398 §71]

 

      419B.328 Ward of the court; duration of wardship. (1) The court shall make a child found to be within the jurisdiction of the court as provided in ORS 419B.100 a ward of the court.

      (2) The court’s wardship continues, and the ward is subject to the court’s jurisdiction, until one of the following occurs:

      (a) The court dismisses the petition concerning the ward;

      (b) The court transfers jurisdiction over the ward as provided in ORS 419B.127, 419B.130, 419B.132 or 419B.633;

      (c) The court enters an order terminating the wardship;

      (d) A judgment of adoption of the ward is entered by a court of competent jurisdiction; or

      (e) The ward becomes 21 years of age.

      (3) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, if a permanent guardianship has been established under ORS 419B.365, the court’s wardship continues, and the ward is subject to the court’s jurisdiction, until:

      (a) The court vacates the guardianship under ORS 419B.368 and subsequently enters an order terminating the wardship; or

      (b) The ward becomes 21 years of age. [1993 c.33 §105; 1995 c.422 §70; 2003 c.396 §54; 2003 c.576 §447; 2021 c.398 §59; 2023 c.125 §1]

 

      419B.331 When protective supervision authorized; conditions that may be imposed. Except as provided in ORS 419B.600 to 419B.654, when the court determines it would be in the best interest and welfare of a ward, the court may place the ward under protective supervision. The court may direct that the ward remain in the legal custody of the ward’s parents or other person with whom the ward is living, or the court may direct that the ward be placed in the legal custody of some relative or some person maintaining a foster home approved by the court, or in a child care center or a youth care center authorized to accept the ward. The court may specify particular requirements to be observed during the protective supervision consistent with recognized juvenile court practice, including but not limited to restrictions on visitation by the ward’s parents, restrictions on the ward’s associates, occupation and activities, restrictions on and requirements to be observed by the person having the ward’s legal custody, and requirements for visitation by and consultation with a juvenile counselor or other suitable counselor. [1993 c.33 §106; 2003 c.396 §55; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §37]

 

      419B.334 Placement out of state. When the court determines it would be in the best interest and welfare of a ward, the court may, if there is an interstate compact or agreement or an informal arrangement with another state permitting the ward to reside in another state while under protective supervision, or to be placed in an institution or with an agency in another state, place the ward under protective supervision in such other state. [1993 c.33 §107; 2003 c.396 §56]

 

      419B.335 Department of Human Services reports regarding out-of-state placements. The Department of Human Services shall provide the following information regarding out-of-state placements of children and wards on a website maintained by the department and updated monthly:

      (1) The name of each out-of-state facility in which children or wards placed by the department are currently receiving services;

      (2) The city and state in which each facility is located;

      (3) The name of any parent organization for each facility;

      (4) The name of each facility’s accreditation agency;

      (5) The number of children or wards placed by the department currently receiving services from each facility;

      (6) The total number of children or wards currently receiving services from each facility;

      (7) The daily rate charged by each facility for each child or ward;

      (8) The name of the face-to-face contracting agency, including the city and state in which it is located;

      (9) Whether each facility provides services to adjudicated youths or the resident state’s equivalent of adjudicated youths;

      (10) Demographic information about all children or wards the department currently has placed in out-of-state facilities, including but not limited to age, gender or gender identity, race, ethnicity, tribal status and, if disclosed by the child or ward, sexual orientation;

      (11) The number of children or wards the department currently has placed in out-of-state facilities who have autism, intellectual disabilities or developmental disabilities; and

      (12) Aggregate travel costs for the department to support out-of-state placements during the previous month. [2019 c.619 §4; 2021 c.387 §5; 2021 c.489 §58]

 

      419B.337 Commitment to custody of Department of Human Services. (1) When the court determines it would be in the best interest and for the welfare of a ward, the court may place the ward in the legal custody of the Department of Human Services for care, placement and supervision. When the court enters an order removing a ward from the ward’s home or an order continuing care, the court shall make a written finding as to whether:

      (a) Removal of the ward from the ward’s home or continuation of care is in the best interest and for the welfare of the ward;

      (b) Reasonable efforts, considering the circumstances of the ward and parent, have been made to prevent or eliminate the need for removal of the ward from the home or to make it possible for the ward to safely return home. In making this finding, the court shall consider the ward’s health and safety the paramount concerns; and

      (c) Diligent efforts have been made to place the ward pursuant to ORS 419B.192.

      (2) The court may specify the particular type of care, supervision or services to be provided by the Department of Human Services to wards placed in the department’s custody and to the parents or guardians of the wards, but the actual planning and provision of such care, supervision or services is the responsibility of the department. The department may place the ward in a child care center authorized to accept the ward.

      (3) The court may make an order regarding visitation by the ward’s parents or siblings. The Department of Human Services is responsible for developing and implementing a visitation plan consistent with the court’s order.

      (4) Uniform commitment blanks, in a form approved by the Director of Human Services, shall be used by all courts for placing wards in the legal custody of the Department of Human Services.

      (5) If the ward has been placed in the custody of the Department of Human Services, the court shall make no commitment directly to any residential facility, but shall cause the ward to be delivered into the custody of the department at the time and place fixed by rules of the department. A ward so committed may not be placed in a Department of Corrections institution.

      (6) Commitment of a ward to the Department of Human Services continues until dismissed by the court or until the ward becomes 21 years of age.

      (7) A court may dismiss commitment of a ward to the Department of Human Services if:

      (a)(A) Dismissal is appropriate because the ward has been safely reunited with a parent or because a safe alternative to reunification has been implemented for the ward; and

      (B) The ward is at least 14 years of age but less than 21 years of age and the court finds that:

      (i) The department has provided case planning pursuant to ORS 419B.343 that addresses the ward’s needs and goals for a transition to successful adulthood, including needs and goals relating to housing, physical and mental health, education, employment, community connections and supportive relationships;

      (ii) The department has provided appropriate services pursuant to the case plan;

      (iii) The department has involved the ward in the development of the case plan and in the provision of appropriate services; and

      (iv) The ward has safe and stable housing and is unlikely to become homeless as a result of dismissal of commitment of the ward to the department; or

      (b) The ward has been committed to the custody of the Oregon Youth Authority. [1993 c.33 §108; 1993 c.546 §129; 1999 c.859 §10; 2003 c.396 §57; 2005 c.679 §1; 2007 c.806 §6; 2015 c.254 §6]

 

      419B.340 Reasonable or active efforts determination. (1) If the court awards custody to the Department of Human Services, the court shall include in the disposition order a determination whether the department has made reasonable efforts or, if the ward is an Indian child, active efforts, as described in ORS 419B.645, to prevent or eliminate the need for removal of the ward from the home. If the ward has been removed prior to the entry of the order, the order shall also include a determination whether the department has made reasonable or active efforts to make it possible for the ward to safely return home. In making the determination under this subsection, the court shall consider the ward’s health and safety the paramount concerns.

      (2) In support of its determination whether reasonable or active efforts have been made by the department, the court shall enter a brief description of what preventive and reunification efforts were made and why further efforts could or could not have prevented or shortened the separation of the family.

      (3) When the first contact with the family has occurred during an emergency in which the ward could not remain without jeopardy at home even with reasonable services being provided, the department shall be considered to have made reasonable or active efforts to prevent or eliminate the need for removal.

      (4) When the court finds that preventive or reunification efforts have not been reasonable or active, but further preventive or reunification efforts could not permit the ward to remain without jeopardy at home, the court may authorize or continue the removal of the ward.

      (5) If a court determines that one of the following circumstances exist, the juvenile court may make a finding that the department is not required to make reasonable efforts to make it possible for the ward to safely return home:

      (a) Aggravated circumstances including, but not limited to, the following:

      (A) The parent by abuse or neglect has caused the death of any child;

      (B) The parent has attempted, solicited or conspired, as described in ORS 161.405, 161.435 or 161.450 or under comparable laws of any jurisdiction, to cause the death of any child;

      (C) The parent by abuse or neglect has caused serious physical injury to any child;

      (D) The parent has subjected any child to rape, sodomy or sexual abuse;

      (E) The parent has subjected any child to intentional starvation or torture;

      (F) The parent has abandoned the ward as described in ORS 419B.100 (1)(e); or

      (G) The parent has unlawfully caused the death of the other parent of the ward;

      (b) The parent has been convicted in any jurisdiction of one of the following crimes:

      (A) Murder of another child of the parent, which murder would have been an offense under 18 U.S.C. 1111(a);

      (B) Manslaughter in any degree of another child of the parent, which manslaughter would have been an offense under 18 U.S.C. 1112(a);

      (C) Aiding, abetting, attempting, conspiring or soliciting to commit an offense described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of this paragraph; or

      (D) Felony assault that results in serious physical injury to the ward or another child of the parent; or

      (c) The parent’s rights to another child have been terminated involuntarily.

      (6) If, pursuant to a determination under subsection (5) of this section, the juvenile court makes a finding that the department is not required to make reasonable efforts to prevent or eliminate the need for removal of the ward from the home or to make it possible for the ward to safely return home, and the department determines that it will not make such efforts, the court shall conduct a permanency hearing as provided in ORS 419B.470 no later than 30 days after the judicial finding under subsection (5) of this section. [1993 c.33 §109; 1993 c.546 §124; 1999 c.859 §11; 2001 c.686 §14; 2003 c.396 §58; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §33]

 

      419B.343 Recommendations of committing court; case planning; plan contents. (1) To ensure effective planning for wards, the Department of Human Services shall take into consideration recommendations and information provided by the committing court before placement in any facility. The department shall ensure that the case planning in any case:

      (a) For the reunification of the family bears a rational relationship to the jurisdictional findings that brought the ward within the court’s jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100;

      (b) Incorporates the perspective of the ward and the family and, whenever possible, allows the family to assist in designing its own service programs, based on an assessment of the family’s needs and the family’s solutions and resources for change; and

      (c) Is integrated with other agencies in cooperation with the caseworkers.

      (2) Except in cases when the plan is something other than to reunify the family, the department shall include in the case plan:

      (a) Appropriate services to allow the parent the opportunity to adjust the parent’s circumstances, conduct or conditions to make it possible for the ward to safely return home within a reasonable time; and

      (b) A concurrent permanent plan to be implemented if the parent is unable or unwilling to adjust the parent’s circumstances, conduct or conditions in such a way as to make it possible for the ward to safely return home within a reasonable time.

      (3) For a ward 14 years of age or older, the department shall ensure that:

      (a) Case planning for the ward addresses the ward’s needs and goals for a transition to successful adulthood, including needs and goals related to housing, physical and mental health, education, employment, community connections and supportive relationships; and

      (b) The ward’s case plan includes a document that describes the rights of the ward as specified in ORS 418.201 and a signed acknowledgment by the ward that the ward has been provided with a copy of the document and that rights contained in the document have been explained to the ward in an age-appropriate manner.

      (4) The case plan for a ward in substitute care must include the health and education records of the ward, including the most recent information available regarding:

      (a) The names and addresses of the ward’s health and education providers;

      (b) The grade level of the ward’s academic performance;

      (c) The ward’s school record;

      (d) Whether the ward’s placement takes into account proximity to the school in which the ward is enrolled at the time of placement;

      (e) The ward’s immunizations;

      (f) Any known medical problems of the ward;

      (g) The ward’s medications; and

      (h) Any other relevant health and education information concerning the ward that the department determines is appropriate to include in the records. [1993 c.33 §110; 1995 c.770 §1; 1997 c.873 §13; 1999 c.859 §12; 2001 c.686 §15; 2003 c.396 §59; 2003 c.544 §3a; 2007 c.611 §5; 2015 c.254 §7]

 

      419B.346 Medical planning. Whenever a ward who is in need of medical care or other special treatment by reason of physical or mental condition is placed in the custody of the Department of Human Services by the juvenile court, the department shall prepare a plan for care or treatment within 14 days after assuming custody of the ward. The court may indicate in general terms the type of care which it regards as initially appropriate. A copy of the plan, including a time schedule for its implementation, shall be sent to the juvenile court that committed the ward to the department. The court may at any time request regular progress reports on implementation of the plan. The department shall notify the court when the plan is implemented, and shall report to the court concerning the progress of the ward annually thereafter. If the plan is subsequently revised, the department shall notify the court of the revisions and the reasons for the revisions. [1993 c.33 §111; 2003 c.396 §60]

 

      419B.349 Court authority to review placement or proposed placement. (1) Commitment of a child or ward to the Department of Human Services does not terminate the court’s continuing jurisdiction to protect the rights of the child or ward or the child or ward’s parents or guardians. Notwithstanding ORS 419B.337 (5), if upon review of a placement or proposed placement of a child or ward made or to be made by the department the court determines that the placement or proposed placement is not in the best interest of the child or ward, the court may direct the department to place or maintain the child or ward in the care of the child or ward’s parents, in foster care with a foster care provider who is a relative, in foster care with a foster care provider who is or has been a current caretaker for the child, in foster care with a foster care provider who is not a relative or current caretaker, in residential care, in group care or in some other specific type of residential placement, but unless otherwise required by law, the court may not direct a specific placement. The actual planning and placement of the child or ward is the responsibility of the department. Nothing in this subsection affects any contractual right of an individual or a private agency to refuse or terminate a placement.

      (2) The court may not exercise its discretion to direct the department to place or maintain a child or ward where the effect of the direction will be to remove the child or ward from, or prevent the placement of the child or ward with, a person described in ORS 419B.440 (2)(c). [1993 c.33 §112; 1997 c.497 §1; 1997 c.764 §1; 2003 c.396 §61; 2007 c.235 §1; 2007 c.806 §13; 2015 c.795 §6]

 

      419B.350 [1997 c.873 §15; 1999 c.859 §13; repealed by 2001 c.686 §25]

 

      419B.351 Court approval of placement in qualified residential treatment program. (1) The Department of Human Services shall move the court for approval of a placement no later than 30 days following the date the department placed, or will place, a child or ward in a qualified residential treatment program described in ORS 418.323.

      (2)(a) The motion for approval of the placement must include, at a minimum:

      (A) The date of the placement;

      (B) To the extent practicable, the parties’ placement preferences; and

      (C) A copy of the child’s or ward’s independent assessment described in ORS 418.324.

      (b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a)(C) of this subsection, if the independent assessment is not completed at the time the department files the motion under subsection (1) of this section, the department may file the motion under this section without the assessment and shall supplement the motion with a copy of the completed assessment immediately following the department’s receipt of the completed assessment.

      (3) The department shall provide an exact copy of the motion to each of the parties listed in ORS 419B.875.

      (4) Upon receipt of a motion under this section, the court shall schedule a hearing to occur no later than 60 days following the date the child or ward is placed in the qualified residential treatment program.

      (5)(a) The court shall enter an order approving or disapproving the placement and make specific determinations regarding the following:

      (A) Whether the needs of the child or ward can be met through placement in a foster family home or in a proctor foster home as defined in ORS 418.205.

      (B) If the court determines that the needs of the child or ward cannot be met through placement in a foster family home or proctor foster home, whether placement of the child or ward in the qualified residential treatment program:

      (i) Provides the least restrictive setting to provide the most effective and appropriate level of care for the child or ward; and

      (ii) Is consistent with the child’s or ward’s case plan.

      (b) In addition to the determinations under paragraph (a) of this subsection, if the motion is for approval of the placement of a child or ward in an out-of-state child-caring agency that serves juvenile offenders as defined in ORS 418.321 (6), the court may not approve the placement unless the court finds that the child or ward’s placement in the out-of-state child-caring agency is the least restrictive setting available to meet the child or ward’s treatment needs, taking into consideration all of the following:

      (A) The nature of the services offered by the child-caring agency;

      (B) The population served by the child-caring agency;

      (C) The percentage of the child-caring agency’s population that is juvenile offenders; and

      (D) Whether the child-caring agency is required to file a report under the Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003, 34 U.S.C. 30301 et seq.

      (c) The court may receive testimony, reports or other material relating to the child’s or ward’s mental, physical and social history and prognosis without regard to the competency or relevancy of the testimony, reports or other material under the rules of evidence.

      (6) The court shall enter an order under subsection (5) of this section no later than 60 days following the date the child or ward is placed in the qualified residential treatment program.

      (7) If the court enters an order disapproving the child’s or ward’s placement, the department shall move the child or ward to a placement that provides care, supervision and services that are consistent with the court’s order no later than 30 days following the date the court enters the order. [2020 s.s.1 c.19 §14b]

 

      419B.352 Hospitalization; mental health examination. The court may direct that the child or ward be examined or treated by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, physician assistant licensed under ORS 677.505 to 677.525, naturopathic physician licensed under ORS chapter 685 or nurse practitioner licensed under ORS 678.375 to 678.390, or receive other special care or treatment in a hospital or other suitable facility. If the court determines that mental health examination and treatment should be provided by services delivered through the Department of Human Services, the department shall determine the appropriate placement or services in consultation with the court and other affected agencies. If an affected agency objects to the type of placement or services, the court shall determine the appropriate type of placement or service. During the examination or treatment of the child or ward, the department may, if appropriate, be appointed guardian of the child or ward. [1993 c.33 §113; 2001 c.900 §123; 2003 c.396 §62; 2014 c.45 §44; 2017 c.356 §44]

 

      419B.354 [2019 c.619 §3; 2019 c.619 §3a; 2020 s.s.1 c.19 §§11a,11b; 2021 c.387 §3; 2021 c.489 §59; renumbered 418.322 in 2021]

 

      419B.356 [2019 c.619 §5; repealed by 2020 s.s.1 c.19 §12a]

 

      419B.358 [2019 c.619 §6; repealed by 2020 s.s.1 c.19 §13a]

 

      419B.360 [2019 c.619 §7; repealed by 2020 s.s.1 c.19 §14a]

 

(Guardianships)

 

      419B.365 Permanent guardianship; petition; when filed; procedure. (1) At any time following establishment of jurisdiction and wardship under ORS 419B.100, but prior to the filing of a petition under ORS 419B.500, or after dismissal of a petition filed under ORS 419B.500 if it fails to result in termination of the parent’s rights, a party, or person granted rights of limited participation for the purpose of filing a guardianship petition, may file, and the court may hear, a petition for permanent guardianship. If the Department of Human Services chooses not to participate in a proceeding initiated by an intervenor under ORS 419B.875, the state is not foreclosed from filing a subsequent action should the intervenor’s petition be denied.

      (2) The grounds for granting a permanent guardianship are the same as those for termination of parental rights.

      (3) Upon the filing of a motion to establish guardianship under this section, the court shall make a finding, subject to the procedures under ORS 419B.636 (4), regarding whether there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child.

      (4) The court shall grant a permanent guardianship if it finds by clear and convincing evidence that:

      (a) The grounds cited in the petition are true; and

      (b) It is in the best interest of the ward that the parent never have physical custody of the ward but that other parental rights and duties should not be terminated.

      (5)(a) Notwithstanding subsection (4) of this section, the court may grant the permanent guardianship of an Indian child only:

      (A) If the court has offered the parties the opportunity to participate in mediation as required under ORS 419B.517;

      (B) If requested by the tribe, an agreement is in place that requires the proposed guardian to maintain connection between the Indian child and the Indian child’s tribe; and

      (C) If after inquiry as required under ORS 419B.636 (2) and notice as required under ORS 419B.639 (2), and in addition to any other findings required for the termination of parental rights under ORS 419B.500 to 419B.524, the court finds:

      (i) That evidence, including the testimony of one or more qualified expert witnesses under ORS 419B.642, establishes beyond a reasonable doubt that the continued custody of the Indian child by the child’s parent or custody by the child’s Indian custodian is likely to result in serious emotional or physical damage to the Indian child;

      (ii) That active efforts under ORS 419B.645 to reunite the Indian family did not eliminate the necessity for permanent guardianship based on serious emotional or physical damage to the Indian child; and

      (iii) That the placement of the Indian child complies with the placement preferences described in ORS 419B.654 (1).

      (b) The evidence under paragraph (a) of this subsection must show a causal relationship between the particular conditions in the Indian child’s home and the likelihood that custody or continued custody of the Indian child will result in serious emotional or physical damage to the particular Indian child who is the subject of the child custody proceeding, as defined in ORS 419B.603. Evidence that shows the existence of community or family poverty, isolation, single parenthood, custodian age, crowded or inadequate housing, substance abuse or nonconforming social behavior does not, by itself, establish a causal relationship as required by this paragraph.

      (c) As used in this subsection, “custody” and “continued custody” have the meanings described in ORS 419B.606.

      (6) A guardianship established under this section continues unless vacated under ORS 419B.368 or the ward becomes 21 years of age. [1997 c.873 §3; 1999 c.59 §119; 1999 c.859 §23; 2003 c.229 §6; 2003 c.396 §63a; 2007 c.333 §1; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §43; 2021 c.398 §60; 2023 c.125 §2]

 

      419B.366 Guardianship; motion; procedure. (1) A party, or a person granted rights of limited participation for the purpose of filing a guardianship motion, may file a motion to establish a guardianship. The motion must be in writing and state with particularity the factual and legal grounds for the motion.

      (2) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (3) of this section, the facts supporting any finding made or relief granted under this section must be established by a preponderance of evidence.

      (3) Upon the filing of a motion to establish guardianship under this section, the court shall make a finding, subject to the procedures under ORS 419B.636 (4), regarding whether there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child.

      (4)(a) The court may grant the guardianship of an Indian child only:

      (A) If the court has offered the parties the opportunity to participate in mediation as required under ORS 419B.517;

      (B) If requested by the tribe, an agreement is in place that requires the proposed guardian to maintain connection between the Indian child and the Indian child’s tribe; and

      (C) If after inquiry as required under ORS 419B.636 (2) and notice as required under ORS 419B.639 (2), the court:

      (i) Finds, by clear and convincing evidence, including the testimony of one or more qualified expert witnesses under ORS 419B.642, that the continued custody of the Indian child by the child’s parent or custody by the child’s Indian custodian is likely to result in serious emotional or physical damage to the Indian child;

      (ii) Finds that active efforts under ORS 419B.645 to reunite the Indian family did not eliminate the necessity for guardianship based on serious emotional or physical damage to the Indian child; and

      (iii) Finds that the placement of the Indian child complies with the placement preferences as described in ORS 419B.654 (1) or, if not, upon the moving party’s motion under ORS 419B.654 (3), the court finds, by clear and convincing evidence, that there is good cause to depart from the placement preferences.

      (b) The evidence under paragraph (a) of this subsection must show a causal relationship between the particular conditions in the Indian child’s home and the likelihood that custody or continued custody of the Indian child will result in serious emotional or physical damage to the particular Indian child who is the subject of the child custody proceeding, as defined in ORS 419B.603. Evidence that shows the existence of community or family poverty, isolation, single parenthood, custodian age, crowded or inadequate housing, substance abuse or nonconforming social behavior does not, by itself, establish a causal relationship as required by this paragraph.

      (c) As used in this subsection, “custody” and “continued custody” have the meanings described in ORS 419B.606.

      (5) In a proceeding under this section, the court may receive testimony and reports as provided in ORS 419B.325.

      (6) If the court has approved a plan of guardianship under ORS 419B.476, the court may grant the motion for guardianship if the court determines, after a hearing, that:

      (a) The ward cannot safely return to a parent within a reasonable time;

      (b) Adoption is not an appropriate plan for the ward;

      (c) The proposed guardian is suitable to meet the needs of the ward and is willing to accept the duties and authority of a guardian; and

      (d) Guardianship is in the ward’s best interests. In determining whether guardianship is in the ward’s best interests, the court shall consider the ward’s wishes.

      (7) Unless vacated pursuant to ORS 419B.368, a guardianship established under this section continues as long as the ward is subject to the court’s jurisdiction as provided in ORS 419B.328. [2003 c.229 §2; 2007 c.333 §2; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §44; 2021 c.398 §61]

 

      419B.367 Letters of guardianship; reports by guardian; review of reports; legal status and liability of guardian. (1) Upon granting a motion for guardianship under ORS 419B.366 or upon granting a petition for guardianship under ORS 419B.365, the court shall issue letters of guardianship to the guardian. As provided in ORS 419A.255, a guardian may disclose letters of guardianship when necessary to fulfill the duties of a guardian. Letters of guardianship must be in substantially the following form:

______________________________________________________________________________

 

State of Oregon,          )

                                    )     LETTERS OF

County of___              )     GUARDIANSHIP

 

 

      BY THESE LETTERS OF GUARDIANSHIP be informed:

      That on ______ (month) ___(day), 2___, the ______ Court,

______County, State of Oregon, appointed ________ (name of guardian) guardian for ________ (name of ward) and that the named guardian has qualified and has the authority and duties of guardian for the named ward including legal custody of the ward, except as provided below.

 

      IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have subscribed my name and affixed the seal of the court at my office on ______ (month) ___(day), 2___.

 (Seal)

 

______, Clerk of the Court

 

By______, Deputy

______________________________________________________________________________

 

      (2) If the ward is an Indian child and the court finds that an agreement is in place between the Indian child’s tribe and the guardian that requires the guardian to maintain contact between the Indian child and the Indian child’s tribe, the order must include the terms of that agreement.

      (3) In the order appointing the guardian, the court shall require the guardian to file with the court a written report within 30 days after each anniversary of appointment and may:

      (a) Specify the frequency and nature of visitation or contact between relatives, including siblings, and the ward, if the court determines that visitation or contact is in the ward’s best interests;

      (b) Enter an order for child support pursuant to ORS 419B.400 that complies with ORS 25.275; and

      (c) Make any other order to provide for the ward’s continuing safety and well-being.

      (4) The report required under subsection (3) of this section must:

      (a) Contain a summary sheet that:

      (A) Identifies the written report and includes the date of submission and the name of the submitting person; and

      (B) Is maintained as part of the record of the case under ORS 419A.255 (1);

      (b) Be maintained in the supplemental confidential file under ORS 419A.255 (2); and

      (c) Contain an affidavit attesting to the accuracy of the report or contain a declaration under penalty of perjury immediately above the signature line of the guardian as follows: “I hereby declare that the above statement is true to the best of my knowledge and belief, and that I understand it is made for use as evidence in court and is subject to penalty for perjury.”

      (5)(a) Upon timely receipt of a report under subsection (3) of this section, the court shall review the report and maintain the report as described in subsection (4) of this section. The court may:

      (A) Direct the local citizen review board to conduct a review;

      (B) Subject to the availability of funds, appoint a court visitor and require the visitor to file a report with the court; or

      (C) Conduct a court review.

      (b) If the court does not receive a report under subsection (3) of this section in a timely manner, the court shall:

      (A) Direct the local citizen review board to conduct a review;

      (B) Subject to the availability of funds, appoint a court visitor and require the visitor to file a report with the court; or

      (C) Conduct a court review.

      (6) Except as otherwise limited by the court, a person appointed guardian has legal custody of the ward and the duties and authority of legal custodian and guardian under ORS 419B.373 and 419B.376. A guardian is not liable to third persons for acts of the ward solely by reason of being appointed guardian. [2003 c.229 §3; 2005 c.84 §1; 2007 c.333 §3; 2013 c.417 §6; 2015 c.119 §4; 2015 c.121 §11; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §45]

 

      419B.368 Review, modification or vacation of guardianship order. (1) The court, on its own motion or upon the motion of a party and after such hearing as the court may direct, may review, modify or vacate a guardianship order.

      (2) The court may modify a guardianship order if the court determines to do so would be in the ward’s best interests.

      (3) The court may vacate a guardianship order, return the ward to the custody of a parent and make any other order the court is authorized to make under this chapter if the court determines that:

      (a) It is in the ward’s best interests to vacate the guardianship;

      (b) The conditions and circumstances giving rise to the establishment of the guardianship have been ameliorated; and

      (c) The parent is presently able and willing to adequately care for the ward.

      (4) The court may vacate a guardianship order after determining that the guardian is no longer willing or able to fulfill the duties of a guardian. Upon vacating a guardianship order under this subsection, the court shall conduct a hearing:

      (a) Within 14 days, make written findings required in ORS 419B.185 (2) and (3)(d) and (e) and make any order directing disposition of the ward that the court is authorized to make under this chapter; and

      (b) Pursuant to ORS 419B.476 within 90 days.

      (5) In determining whether it is in the ward’s best interests to modify or vacate a guardianship, the court shall consider, but is not limited to considering:

      (a) The ward’s emotional and developmental needs;

      (b) The ward’s need to maintain existing attachments and relationships and to form attachments and relationships, including those with the birth family;

      (c) The ward’s health and safety; and

      (d) The ward’s wishes.

      (6) In addition to service required under ORS 419B.851:

      (a) A party filing a motion to vacate a guardianship shall serve the motion upon the Department of Human Services.

      (b) A party filing a motion to terminate wardship under ORS 419B.328 shall serve the motion upon the department.

      (7) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, a parent may not move the court to vacate a guardianship once a guardianship is granted under ORS 419B.365.

      (8) If a guardianship is established under ORS 419B.366 and 419B.371, the court shall conduct a court review not later than 60 days before the ward reaches 18 years of age. At the hearing, the court shall inform the ward that after reaching 18 years of age the ward may not be placed in substitute care in the legal custody of the department. [2003 c.229 §4; 2007 c.333 §4; 2007 c.806 §7; 2012 c.86 §3; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §58; 2021 c.398 §72; 2023 c.125 §3]

 

      419B.369 Guardianship study; rules. (1) When a ward is in the legal custody of the Department of Human Services, the department shall conduct a guardianship study of the proposed guardian’s home and provide a report to the court regarding the suitability of the proposed guardian and whether guardianship is in the ward’s best interests. The department shall adopt rules necessary to carry out the duties imposed by this subsection.

      (2) When a ward is not in the legal custody of the department, the court may order the proposed guardian to obtain, at the proposed guardian’s expense, a guardianship study of the proposed guardian’s home and provide a report to the court regarding the suitability of the proposed guardian and whether guardianship is in the ward’s best interests. [2003 c.229 §5; 2007 c.333 §5]

 

      419B.370 [1993 c.33 §114; 1993 c.367 §3; 2003 c.229 §10; 2003 c.396 §64; renumbered 419B.372 in 2013]

 

      419B.371 Community guardianship. (1) As used in this section:

      (a) “Community guardian” means a child-caring agency licensed, certified or otherwise authorized under ORS 418.205 to 418.327 that is filing a motion for appointment as guardian of a ward under ORS 419B.366.

      (b) “Community guardianship” means a guardianship granted under ORS 419B.366 to a community guardian.

      (2) The court may appoint a community guardian and establish a community guardianship of a ward under ORS 419B.366 when, in addition to the requirements of ORS 419B.366:

      (a) The ward is 16 years of age or older;

      (b) The ward has spent three or more years in substitute care;

      (c) The proposed community guardian has provided care or services to the ward under ORS 418.205 to 418.327 in the 12 months immediately preceding the filing of the motion for community guardianship;

      (d) Except for another planned permanent living arrangement, there is no other appropriate permanency plan for the ward under ORS 419B.476 (5);

      (e) The proposed community guardianship would include planning and guidance for the ward’s transition to successful adulthood, including needs and goals related to crisis intervention, housing, physical and mental health, education, employment, community connections and supportive relationships;

      (f) The ward gives informed consent to the establishment of the community guardianship; and

      (g) The ward has access to court-appointed counsel under ORS 419B.195.

      (3) Informed consent of the ward under subsection (2)(f) of this section shall include:

      (a) The ward’s written consent to information provided in writing to the ward by the court, the Department of Human Services or the proposed community guardian about the consequences of establishment of a community guardianship, including any loss of benefits currently being received or that may prospectively be provided to the ward if another permanency plan were ordered; and

      (b) The ward’s written acknowledgment that the ward cannot be placed in substitute care in the legal custody of the Department of Human Services after reaching 18 years of age. [2012 c.86 §1; 2015 c.254 §8; 2016 c.106 §48]

 

      Note: 419B.371 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 419B or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

(Legal Custodian of Child)

 

      419B.372 Guardianship as incident of custody. (1) When the court grants legal custody to the Department of Human Services, it may also grant guardianship of the ward to the department, to remain in effect solely while the ward remains in the legal custody of the department.

      (2) When the court grants legal custody to a private institution or agency or to a suitable person or entity, the court may grant guardianship of the ward to the private institution or agency to which the ward is committed or to the suitable person or entity if it appears necessary to do so in the interests of the ward.

      (3) Unless guardianship is granted as provided in subsection (1) or (2) of this section, the court as an incident of its wardship has the duties and authority of the guardian as provided in ORS 419B.376 and 419B.379. [Formerly 419B.370]

 

      419B.373 Duties and authority of legal custodian. A person, agency or institution having legal custody of a ward has the following duties and authority:

      (1) To have physical custody and control of the ward.

      (2) To supply the ward with food, clothing, shelter and incidental necessaries.

      (3) To provide the ward with care, education and discipline.

      (4) To authorize ordinary medical, dental, psychiatric, psychological, hygienic or other remedial care and treatment for the ward, and, in an emergency where the ward’s safety appears urgently to require it, to authorize surgery or other extraordinary care.

      (5) To make such reports and to supply such information to the court as the court may from time to time require.

      (6) To apply for any Social Security benefits, public assistance or medical assistance, as defined in ORS 414.025, to which the ward is otherwise entitled and, subject to ORS 409.265, to use the benefits or assistance to provide for the care of the ward. [1993 c.33 §115; 1993 c.367 §1; 2003 c.396 §65; 2013 c.688 §88; 2023 c.576 §3]

 

(Guardian)

 

      419B.376 Duties and authority of guardian. A person, agency or institution having guardianship of a ward by reason of appointment by the court has the duties and authority of a guardian of the ward, including but not limited to the following:

      (1) To authorize surgery for the ward, but this authority does not prevent the person having legal custody of the ward from acting under ORS 419B.373 (4).

      (2) To authorize the ward to enlist in the Armed Forces of the United States.

      (3) To consent to the ward’s marriage.

      (4) When the ward has been committed under ORS 419B.527, to consent to the adoption of the ward.

      (5) To make other decisions concerning the ward of substantial legal significance.

      (6) To make such reports and to supply such information to the court as the court may from time to time require. [1993 c.33 §116; 2003 c.396 §66]

 

      419B.379 Guardian is not conservator. A person appointed guardian of the ward by the court is guardian only and not a conservator of the estate of the ward, unless that person is appointed conservator of the ward’s estate in a protective proceeding as provided in ORS chapter 125. [1993 c.33 §117; 1995 c.664 §94; 2003 c.396 §67]

 

(Authority Over Parents)

 

      419B.385 Parent or guardian as party. A parent or legal guardian of a ward, if such parent or guardian was served with summons under ORS 419B.812 to 419B.839 prior to the adjudication, is subject to the jurisdiction of the court for purposes of this section. The court may order the parent or guardian to assist the court in any reasonable manner in providing appropriate education or counseling for the ward. [1993 c.33 §118; 2001 c.622 §49; 2003 c.396 §68]

 

      419B.387 Parent participation in treatment or training. If the court finds in an evidentiary hearing that treatment or training is needed by a parent to correct the circumstances that resulted in wardship or to prepare the parent to resume the care of the ward, the court may order the parent to participate in the treatment or training if the participation is in the ward’s best interests. [1993 c.546 §55 (enacted in lieu of 1993 c.33 §§119 and 120); 2003 c.396 §69]

 

      419B.389 Inability of parent to comply with order of court. A parent who believes or claims that financial, health or other problems will prevent or delay the parent’s compliance with an order of the court must inform the court of the relevant circumstances as soon as reasonably possible and, if appropriate, seek relief from the order under ORS 419B.923. [2001 c.360 §3; 2003 c.315 §1]

 

(Parentage)

 

      419B.395 Judgment of parentage or nonparentage. (1) If in any proceeding under ORS 419B.100 or 419B.500 the juvenile court determines that the child or ward has fewer than two legal parents or that parentage is disputed as allowed in ORS 109.070, the court may enter a judgment of parentage or a judgment of nonparentage in compliance with the provisions of ORS 109.065, 109.070, 109.124 to 109.230, 109.250 to 109.262, 109.326 and 419B.609.

      (2) Before entering a judgment under subsection (1) of this section, the court shall:

      (a) Determine that the inquiry requirements under ORS 419B.636 (2), to determine whether the child is an Indian child, have been satisfied;

      (b) Make a finding regarding whether the child is an Indian child, subject to the procedures under ORS 419B.636 (4); and

      (c) Find that adequate notice and an opportunity to be heard was provided to:

      (A) The parties to the proceeding;

      (B) The person alleged or claiming to be the child or ward’s parent;

      (C) The Administrator of the Division of Child Support of the Department of Justice or the branch office providing support services to the county in which the court is located; and

      (D) If the child is an Indian child, the child’s Indian custodian and tribe, together with the notice of proceeding in the form required under ORS 419B.639 (2).

      (3) When appropriate, the court shall inform a person before the court claiming to be the parent of a child or ward that parentage establishment services may be available through the administrator if the child or ward:

      (a) Is a child born out of wedlock;

      (b) Has not been placed for adoption; and

      (c) Has fewer than two legal parents.

      (4) As used in this section:

      (a) “Administrator” has the meaning given that term in ORS 25.010.

      (b) “Child born out of wedlock” has the meaning given that term in ORS 109.124.

      (c) “Legal parent” has the meaning given that term in ORS 419A.004. [2005 c.160 §8; 2015 c.254 §10; 2015 c.795 §3; 2017 c.651 §42; 2021 c.398 §46; 2021 c.489 §60]

 

(Support)

 

      419B.400 Authority to order support; collection. (1) The court may, after a hearing on the matter, require the parents or other person legally obligated to support a child alleged to be within the jurisdiction of the court under ORS 419B.100 or a ward to pay toward the child or ward’s support such amounts at such intervals as the court may direct, even though the child or ward is over 18 years of age as long as the child or ward is a child attending school, as defined in ORS 107.108.

      (2) At least 21 days before the hearing, the court shall notify the Administrator of the Division of Child Support of the Department of Justice, or the branch office providing support services to the county where the hearing will be held, of the hearing. Before the hearing the administrator shall inform the court, to the extent known:

      (a) Whether there is pending in this state or any other jurisdiction any type of support proceeding involving the child or ward, including a proceeding brought under ORS 25.287, 25.501 to 25.556, 107.085, 107.135, 107.431, 108.110, 109.100, 109.103, 109.165 or 125.025 or ORS chapter 110; and

      (b) Whether there exists in this state or any other jurisdiction a support order, as defined in ORS 110.503, involving the child or ward.

      (3) The Judicial Department and the Department of Justice may enter into an agreement regarding how the courts give the notice required under subsection (2) of this section to the Department of Justice and how the Department of Justice gives the information described in subsection (2)(a) and (b) to the courts.

      (4) The court, in determining the amount to be paid, shall use the scale and formula provided for in ORS 25.275 and 25.280. Unless otherwise ordered, the amounts so required to be paid shall be paid to the Department of Justice or the county clerk, whichever is appropriate, for transmission to the person, institution or agency having legal custody of the child or ward. [1993 c.33 §121; 1997 c.704 §§46,60; 2003 c.116 §16; 2003 c.396 §70a; 2015 c.298 §101; 2021 c.597 §72]

 

      419B.402 Support order is judgment; modification; satisfaction. (1) Pursuant to ORS 18.035, the court shall ensure that any order for support entered pursuant to ORS 419B.400 is entered as a judgment.

      (2) If a motion is filed to set aside, alter or modify a judgment described in subsection (1) of this section, the court may not set aside, alter or modify the judgment, or any portion of the judgment, to the extent that the set-aside, alteration or modification would affect moneys that accrued prior to the date the motion is served on the nonmoving party if the moneys that accrued are for minor children or the support of a party.

      (3)(a) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, when a judgment is entered terminating or relinquishing a parent’s parental rights, any child support arrears for that child owed to the State of Oregon by the parent are deemed satisfied as a matter of law.

      (b) Nothing in subsection (2) of this section limits the authority of the court to deem satisfied any arrears under a judgment described in subsection (1) of this section owed to the State of Oregon by a parent. [1993 c.33 §122; 2003 c.576 §252; 2023 c.291 §5]

 

      419B.404 Support for child or ward in state financed or supported institution. Any order for support entered pursuant to ORS 419B.400 for a child or ward in the care and custody of the Department of Human Services may be made contingent upon the child or ward residing in a state financed or supported residence, shelter or other facility or institution. A certificate signed by the Director of Human Services, the Administrator of the Division of Child Support or the administrator’s authorized representative shall be sufficient to establish such periods of residence and to satisfy the order for periods of nonresidence. [1993 c.33 §123; 2003 c.396 §71]

 

      419B.406 Assignment of support order to state. When a child or ward is in the legal custody of the Department of Human Services and the child or ward is the beneficiary of an order of support in a judgment of dissolution or other order and the department is required to provide financial assistance for the care and support of the child or ward, the state is assignee of and subrogated to the child or ward’s proportionate share of the support obligation including sums that have accrued whether or not the support order or judgment provides for separate monthly amounts for the support of each of two or more children or wards or a single monthly gross payment for the benefit of two or more children or wards, up to the amount of assistance provided by the department. The assignment shall be as provided in ORS 412.024. [1993 c.33 §124; 1999 c.80 §76; 2003 c.73 §67; 2003 c.396 §72; 2003 c.572 §18; 2003 c.576 §448]

 

      419B.408 Enforcement of support order. (1) An order of support entered pursuant to ORS 419B.400 may be enforced by execution or in the manner provided by law for the enforcement of a judgment granting an equitable remedy or by an order to withhold pursuant to ORS 25.372 to 25.427.

      (2) No property of the child or ward’s parents, or either of them, or other person legally obligated to support the child or ward is exempt from levy and sale or other process to enforce collection of the amounts ordered by the court to be paid toward the support of the child or ward. [1993 c.33 §125; 1993 c.798 §31; 2003 c.396 §73]

 

      419B.420 [1993 c.33 §126; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.423 [1993 c.33 §127; 1993 c.546 §125; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.426 [1993 c.33 §128; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

(Reports by Guardians and Custodians)

 

      419B.440 Circumstances requiring reports; exceptions. (1) Any public or private agency having guardianship or legal custody of a child or ward pursuant to court order shall file reports on the child or ward with the juvenile court that entered the original order concerning the child or ward or, when no such order exists, with the juvenile court of the county of the child or ward’s residence in the following circumstances:

      (a) When the child or ward has been placed with the agency as a result of a court order and prior to, or as soon as practicable after the agency places the child or ward in any placement including, but not limited to, the child or ward’s home, shelter care, substitute care or a child care center, unless the court has previously received a report or treatment plan indicating the actual physical placement of the child or ward.

      (b)(A) When the child or ward has been placed with the agency as the result of a court order and remains under agency care for six consecutive months from date of initial placement;

      (B) When the child or ward has been surrendered for adoption or the parents’ rights have been terminated and the agency has not physically placed the child or ward for adoption or initiated adoption proceedings within six months of receiving the child or ward; and

      (C) When the ward is in the legal custody of the Department of Human Services as provided in ORS 419B.337, but the ward has been placed for a period of six consecutive months in the physical custody of a parent or a person who was appointed the ward’s legal guardian prior to placement of the ward in the legal custody of the department.

      (c) When the agency has removed or plans to remove a child or ward from a foster home as defined in ORS 418.625 that is certified under ORS 418.635 and the removal is for the purpose of placing the child or ward in a different substitute care placement, if:

      (A) The child or ward has resided for 12 consecutive months or more in the foster home; or

      (B) The child or ward resides or resided in the foster home pursuant to a permanent foster care agreement.

      (2) An agency is not required to file a report under subsection (1)(c) of this section when:

      (a) The removal of the child or ward was made following a founded allegation of abuse or neglect by the child’s or ward’s foster care provider;

      (b) The removal was made to address an imminent threat to the health or safety of the child or ward pending completion of an investigation of reported abuse or neglect by the child’s or ward’s foster care provider;

      (c) The agency has placed the child or ward with a person who has been selected by the department to be the adoptive parent, when the selection has become final after the expiration of any administrative or judicial review procedures under ORS chapter 183; or

      (d) The removal was made at the request of the foster care provider. [1993 c.33 §129; 2003 c.396 §74; 2007 c.610 §1; 2015 c.795 §7]

 

      419B.443 Time and content of reports. (1) An agency described in ORS 419B.440 shall file the reports required by ORS 419B.440 (1)(b) at the end of the initial six-month period and no less frequently than each six months thereafter. The agency shall file reports more frequently if the court so orders. The reports must include, but not be limited to:

      (a) A description of the problems or offenses that necessitated the placement of the child or ward with the agency;

      (b) A description of the type and an analysis of the effectiveness of the care, treatment and supervision that the agency has provided for the child or ward;

      (c) A list of all placements made since the child or ward has been in the guardianship or legal custody of an agency and the length of time the child or ward has spent in each placement;

      (d) For a child or ward in substitute care, a list of all schools the child or ward has attended since the child or ward has been in the guardianship or legal custody of the agency, the length of time the child or ward has spent in each school and, for a child or ward 14 years of age or older, the number of high school credits the child or ward has earned;

      (e) A list of dates of face-to-face contacts the assigned case worker has had with the child or ward since the child or ward has been in the guardianship or legal custody of the agency and, for a child or ward in substitute care, the place of each contact;

      (f) For a child or ward in substitute care, a list of the visits the child or ward has had with the child’s or ward’s parents or siblings since the child or ward has been in the guardianship or legal custody of the agency and the place and date of each visit;

      (g) For a child or ward in substitute care, the steps the Department of Human Services is taking to ensure that:

      (A) The child’s or ward’s substitute care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard; and

      (B) The child or ward has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate activities, including consultation with the child or ward in an age-appropriate manner about the opportunities the child or ward has to participate in the activities;

      (h) A description of agency efforts to return the child or ward to the parental home or find permanent placement for the child or ward, including, when applicable, efforts to assist the parents in remedying factors which contributed to the removal of the child or ward from the home;

      (i) A proposed treatment plan or proposed continuation or modification of an existing treatment plan, including a proposed visitation plan or proposed continuation or modification of an existing visitation plan and a description of efforts expected of the child or ward and the parents to remedy factors that have prevented the child or ward from safely returning home within a reasonable time;

      (j) If continued substitute care is recommended, a proposed timetable for the child’s or ward’s return home or other permanent placement or a justification of why extended substitute care is necessary;

      (k) If the child or ward has been placed in foster care outside the state, whether the child or ward has been visited not less frequently than every six months by a state or private agency; and

      (L) If the child or ward is placed in a qualified residential treatment program:

      (A) A determination that the strengths and needs of the child or ward cannot be met through placement in a foster home, that the placement in a qualified residential treatment program provides the least restrictive setting to provide the most effective and appropriate level of care for the child or ward, and that the placement is consistent with the short-term and long-term goals for the child or ward, as specified in the permanency plan for the child or ward;

      (B) Documentation of the specific treatment or service needs that will be met for the child or ward in the placement and the length of time the child or ward is expected to need the treatment or services; and

      (C) Documentation of the efforts made by the agency to prepare the child or ward to return home or be placed with a fit and willing relative, a legal guardian, an adoptive parent or in a less restrictive foster home setting.

      (2) In addition to the information required in a report made under subsection (1) of this section, for a ward who is in the legal custody of the department pursuant to ORS 419B.337 but who will be or recently has been placed in the physical custody of a parent or a person who was appointed the ward’s legal guardian prior to placement of the ward in the legal custody of the department, a report required under ORS 419B.440 (1)(a) shall include:

      (a) A recommended timetable for dismissal of the department’s legal custody of the ward and termination of the wardship; and

      (b) A description of the services that the department will provide to the ward and the ward’s physical custodian to eliminate the need for the department to continue legal custody.

      (3) In addition to the information required in a report made under subsection (1) of this section, if the report is made by the department under ORS 419B.440 (1)(b)(C), the report shall include:

      (a) A recommended timetable for dismissal of the department’s legal custody of the ward and termination of the wardship; and

      (b) A description of the services that the department has provided to the ward and the ward’s physical custodian to eliminate the need for the department to continue legal custody.

      (4) Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (1) of this section, reports need not contain information contained in prior reports. [1993 c.33 §130; 2001 c.686 §22; 2003 c.396 §75; 2007 c.610 §2; 2007 c.611 §6; 2007 c.806 §8; 2015 c.254 §3; 2015 c.795 §8; 2019 c.619 §13; 2020 s.s.1 c.19 §§18a,18b]

 

      419B.446 Filing report. (1) Notwithstanding the requirements under ORS 419B.440 that reports be filed with the court, any report after the initial report that is required by ORS 419B.443 on a child or ward whose case is being regularly reviewed by a local citizen review board shall be filed with that local citizen review board rather than the court.

      (2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, all reports made under ORS 419B.440 (1)(b)(C) on wards in the legal custody of the Department of Human Services shall be filed with the court. [1993 c.33 §131; 2003 c.396 §76; 2007 c.610 §3; 2015 c.795 §9]

 

      419B.449 Review hearing by court; findings. (1) Upon receiving any report required by ORS 419B.440, the court may hold a hearing to review the child or ward’s condition and circumstances and to determine if the court should continue jurisdiction and wardship or order modifications in the care, placement and supervision of the child or ward. The court shall hold a hearing:

      (a) In all cases under ORS 419B.440 (1)(b)(B) when the parents’ rights have been terminated;

      (b) If requested by the child or ward, the attorney for the child or ward, if any, the parents or the public or private agency having guardianship or legal custody of the child or ward within 30 days of receipt of the notice provided in ORS 419B.452;

      (c) Not later than six months after receipt of a report made under ORS 419B.440 (1)(a) on a ward who is in the legal custody of the Department of Human Services pursuant to ORS 419B.337 but who is placed in the physical custody of a parent or a person who was appointed the ward’s legal guardian prior to placement of the ward in the legal custody of the department;

      (d) Within 30 days after receipt of a report made under ORS 419B.440 (1)(b)(C); or

      (e) Within 10 days after receipt of a report made under ORS 419B.440 (1)(c).

      (2) The court shall conduct a hearing provided in subsection (1) of this section in the manner provided in ORS 419B.310, except that the court may receive testimony and reports as provided in ORS 419B.325. At the conclusion of the hearing, the court shall enter findings of fact.

      (3) If the child or ward is in substitute care and the decision of the court is to continue the child or ward in substitute care, the findings of the court shall specifically state:

      (a)(A) Why continued care is necessary as opposed to returning the child or ward home or taking prompt action to secure another permanent placement; and

      (B) The expected timetable for return or other permanent placement.

      (b) Whether the agency having guardianship or legal custody of the child or ward has made diligent efforts to place the child or ward pursuant to ORS 419B.192.

      (c) The number of placements made, schools attended, face-to-face contacts with the assigned case worker and visits had with parents or siblings since the child or ward has been in the guardianship or legal custody of the agency and whether the frequency of each of these is in the best interests of the child or ward.

      (d) For a child or ward 14 years of age or older, whether the child or ward is progressing adequately toward graduation from high school and, if not, the efforts that have been made by the agency having custody or guardianship to assist the child or ward to graduate.

      (e) For a ward 16 years of age or older with a permanency plan of another planned permanent living arrangement, the steps the department is taking to ensure that:

      (A) The ward’s substitute care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard; and

      (B) The ward has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate activities, including consultation with the ward in an age-appropriate manner about the opportunities the ward has to participate in the activities.

      (4) If the ward is in the legal custody of the department but has been placed in the physical custody of the parent or a person who was appointed the ward’s legal guardian prior to placement of the ward in the legal custody of the department, and the decision is to continue the ward in the legal custody of the department and the physical custody of the parent or guardian, the findings of the court shall specifically state:

      (a) Why it is necessary and in the best interests of the ward to continue the ward in the legal custody of the department; and

      (b) The expected timetable for dismissal of the department’s legal custody of the ward and termination of the wardship.

      (5) If the child or ward is an Indian child and the child or ward is in the legal custody of the department but has been placed in the physical custody of the parent or a person who was appointed the child’s or ward’s legal guardian prior to placement of the child or ward in the legal custody of the department, the court may order that the child or ward be placed in the physical custody of a substitute care provider only after making all of the inquiry, notice and findings required under ORS 419B.305 and 419B.310.

      (6) In making the findings under subsection (2) of this section, the court shall consider the efforts made to develop the concurrent case plan, including, but not limited to, identification of appropriate permanent placement options for the child or ward both inside and outside this state and, if adoption is the concurrent case plan, identification and selection of a suitable adoptive placement for the child or ward.

      (7)(a) If the child or ward is an Indian child, the findings of the court shall specifically state whether the department has provided active efforts to reunify the Indian child with the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian.

      (b) If the court finds that active efforts have not been provided, the court shall order that the Indian child be immediately returned to the Indian child’s parent.

      (c) Notwithstanding paragraph (b) of this subsection, if the court finds that returning the Indian child to the Indian child’s parent will result in substantial and immediate danger or threat of danger to the Indian child, the court shall:

      (A) Determine the period of time during which active efforts were not provided;

      (B) Order the department to provide those services necessary for the provision of active efforts;

      (C) Order the department to continue placement of the Indian child pursuant to the placement preferences under ORS 419B.654; and

      (D) Order the department to continue to foster relationships with any individuals identified by the department as long-term placement resources meeting the placement preferences under ORS 419B.654.

      (8) In addition to findings of fact required by subsection (2) of this section, the court may order the department to consider additional information in developing the case plan or concurrent case plan.

      (9) Any final decision of the court made pursuant to the hearing provided in subsection (1) of this section is appealable under ORS 419A.200. [1993 c.33 §132; 1999 c.568 §1; 2001 c.480 §8; 2001 c.910 §4; 2003 c.396 §77; 2007 c.610 §4; 2007 c.611 §7; 2007 c.806 §9; 2015 c.254 §4; 2015 c.795 §10; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §46; 2021 c.398 §73]

 

      419B.452 Distribution of report by court. Except when a child or ward has been surrendered for adoption or the parents’ rights have been terminated, the court shall send a copy of the report required by ORS 419B.440 to the parents and shall notify the parents either that a hearing will be held or that the parents may request a hearing at which time they may ask for modifications in the care, treatment and supervision of the child or ward. If the court finds that informing the parents of the identity and location of the foster parents of the child or ward is not in the best interest of the child or ward, the court may order such information deleted from the report before sending the report to the parents. If the child is an Indian child, the court shall send a copy of the report to the Indian child’s tribe as required by the notice requirements under ORS 419B.639. [1993 c.33 §133; 1993 c.546 §126; 2003 c.396 §78; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §59; 2021 c.398 §74]

 

(Child Surrendered for Adoption)

 

      419B.460 Agency’s responsibility. Where a child has been surrendered for adoption and the agency has not physically placed the child for adoption or initiated adoption proceedings within six months of receiving the child, the agency shall file a petition alleging that the child comes within the jurisdiction of the court. [1993 c.33 §134]

 

(Permanency Hearing)

 

      419B.470 Permanency hearing; schedule. (1) The court shall conduct a permanency hearing within 30 days after a judicial finding is made under ORS 419B.340 (5) if, based upon that judicial finding, the Department of Human Services determines that it will not make reasonable efforts to reunify the family.

      (2) In all other cases when a child or ward is in substitute care, the court shall conduct a permanency hearing no later than 12 months after the ward was found within the jurisdiction of the court under ORS 419B.100 or 14 months after the child or ward was placed in substitute care, whichever is the earlier.

      (3) If a ward is removed from court sanctioned permanent foster care, the department shall request and the court shall conduct a permanency hearing within three months after the date of the change in placement.

      (4) If a ward has been surrendered for adoption or the parents’ rights have been terminated and the department has not physically placed the ward for adoption or initiated adoption proceedings within six months after the surrender or entry of an order terminating parental rights, the court shall conduct a permanency hearing within 30 days after receipt of the report required by ORS 419B.440 (1)(b)(B).

      (5) If an order is entered reinstating parental rights under ORS 109.383 or 419B.532, the court shall conduct a permanency hearing within 60 days after entry of the order.

      (6) Unless good cause otherwise is shown, the court shall also conduct a permanency hearing at any time upon the request of the department, an agency directly responsible for care or placement of the child or ward, parents whose parental rights have not been terminated, an attorney for the child or ward, a court appointed special advocate, a citizen review board, a tribal court or upon its own motion. The court shall schedule the hearing as soon as possible after receiving a request.

      (7) After the initial permanency hearing conducted under subsection (1) or (2) of this section or any permanency hearing conducted under subsections (3) to (6) of this section, the court shall conduct subsequent permanency hearings not less frequently than once every 12 months for as long as the child or ward remains in substitute care.

      (8) After the permanency hearing conducted under subsection (4) of this section, the court shall conduct subsequent permanency hearings at least every six months for as long as the ward is not physically placed for adoption or adoption proceedings have not been initiated.

      (9) If a child returns to substitute care after a court’s previously established jurisdiction over the child has been dismissed or terminated, a permanency hearing shall be conducted no later than 12 months after the child is found within the jurisdiction of the court on a newly filed petition or 14 months after the child’s most recent placement in substitute care, whichever is the earlier. [1993 c.33 §135; 1993 c.546 §127; 1999 c.859 §14; 2001 c.686 §7; 2003 c.396 §79; 2007 c.806 §10; 2015 c.795 §11; 2018 c.89 §3; 2021 c.398 §34]

 

      419B.473 Notice; appearance. (1) The court may order that the child or ward or any other person be present during the hearing.

      (2) The court shall notify the parties listed in ORS 419B.470 and any other interested parties of the hearing. The notice shall state the time and place of the hearing. Upon request of the court, the Department of Human Services or other legal custodian of the child or ward shall provide the court with information concerning the whereabouts and identity of such parties. [1993 c.33 §136; 2003 c.396 §80]

 

      419B.476 Conduct of hearing; court determinations; orders. (1) A permanency hearing shall be conducted in the manner provided in ORS 418.312, 419B.310, 419B.812 to 419B.839 and 419B.908, except that the court may receive testimony and reports as provided in ORS 419B.325.

      (2) At a permanency hearing the court shall:

      (a) If the case plan at the time of the hearing is to reunify the family, determine whether the Department of Human Services has made reasonable efforts or, if the ward is an Indian child, active efforts as described in ORS 419B.645 to make it possible for the ward to safely return home and whether the parent has made sufficient progress to make it possible for the ward to safely return home. In making its determination, the court shall consider the ward’s health and safety the paramount concerns.

      (b) If the case plan at the time of the hearing is something other than to reunify the family, determine whether the department has made reasonable efforts to place the ward in a timely manner in accordance with the plan, including, if appropriate, reasonable efforts to place the ward through an interstate placement, and to complete the steps necessary to finalize the permanent placement.

      (c) If the case plan at the time of the hearing is something other than to reunify the family, determine whether the department has considered permanent placement options for the ward, including, if appropriate, whether the department has considered both permanent in-state placement options and permanent interstate placement options for the ward.

      (d) Make the findings of fact under ORS 419B.449 (3).

      (e) If the child is an Indian child and the case plan at the time of the hearing is something other than to reunify the family, make a finding whether, after the department’s consultation with the child’s tribe, and, if the tribe appears at the hearing, the court’s direct consultation with the tribe, tribal customary adoption, as described in ORS 419B.656, is an appropriate permanent placement for the child if reunification is unsuccessful.

      (3) When the ward is 14 years of age or older, in addition to making the determination required by subsection (2) of this section, at a permanency hearing the court shall review the comprehensive plan for the ward’s transition to successful adulthood and determine and make findings as to:

      (a) Whether the plan is adequate to ensure the ward’s transition to successful adulthood;

      (b) Whether the department has offered appropriate services pursuant to the plan; and

      (c) Whether the department has involved the ward in the development of the plan.

      (4) At a permanency hearing the court may:

      (a) If the case plan changed during the period since the last review by a local citizen review board or court hearing and a plan to reunify the family was in effect for any part of that period, determine whether the department has made reasonable efforts or, if the ward is an Indian child, active efforts as described in ORS 419B.645 to make it possible for the ward to safely return home. In making its determination, the court shall consider the ward’s health and safety the paramount concerns;

      (b) If the case plan changed during the period since the last review by a local citizen review board or court hearing and a plan other than to reunify the family was in effect for any part of that period, determine whether the department has made reasonable efforts to place the ward in a timely manner in accordance with the plan, including, if appropriate, placement of the ward through an interstate placement, and to complete the steps necessary to finalize the permanent placement;

      (c) If the court determines that further efforts will make it possible for the ward to safely return home within a reasonable time, order that the parents participate in specific services for a specific period of time and make specific progress within that period of time;

      (d) Determine the adequacy and compliance with the case plan and the case progress report;

      (e) Review the efforts made by the department to develop the concurrent permanent plan, including but not limited to identification of appropriate permanent in-state placement options and appropriate permanent interstate placement options and, if adoption is the concurrent case plan, identification and selection of a suitable adoptive placement for the ward;

      (f) Order the department to develop or expand the case plan or concurrent permanent plan and provide a case progress report to the court and other parties within 10 days after the permanency hearing;

      (g) Order the department or agency to modify the care, placement and supervision of the ward;

      (h) Order the local citizen review board to review the status of the ward prior to the next court hearing; or

      (i) Set another court hearing at a later date.

      (5) The court shall enter an order within 20 days after the permanency hearing. In addition to any determinations or orders the court may make under subsection (4) of this section, the order shall include the following:

      (a) The court’s determinations required under subsections (2) and (3) of this section, including a brief description of the efforts the department has made with regard to the case plan in effect at the time of the permanency hearing.

      (b) The court’s determination of the permanency plan for the ward that includes whether and, if applicable, when:

      (A) The ward will be returned to the parent;

      (B) The ward will be placed for adoption, and a petition for termination of parental rights will be filed;

      (C) The ward will be referred for establishment of legal guardianship;

      (D) The ward will be placed with a fit and willing relative; or

      (E) If the ward is 16 years of age or older, the ward will be placed in another planned permanent living arrangement.

      (c) If the court determines that the permanency plan for the ward should be to return home because further efforts will make it possible for the ward to safely return home within a reasonable time, the court’s determination of the services in which the parents are required to participate, the progress the parents are required to make and the period of time within which the specified progress must be made.

      (d) If the court determines that the permanency plan for the ward should be adoption, the court’s determination of whether one of the circumstances in ORS 419B.498 (2) is applicable.

      (e) If the court determines that the permanency plan for the ward should be establishment of a legal guardianship, the court’s determination of why neither placement with parents nor adoption is appropriate.

      (f) If the court determines that the permanency plan for a ward should be placement with a fit and willing relative, the court’s determination of why placement with the ward’s parents, or for adoption, or placement with a legal guardian, is not appropriate.

      (g) If the court determines that the permanency plan for the ward should be tribal customary adoption, the court’s determination of whether one of the circumstances in ORS 419B.498 (2) is applicable.

      (h) If the court determines that the permanency plan for a ward 16 years of age or older should be another planned permanent living arrangement, the court’s determinations:

      (A) Why another planned permanent living arrangement is in the ward’s best interests and a compelling reason, that must be documented by the department, why it would not be in the best interests of the ward to be returned home, placed for adoption, placed with a legal guardian or placed with a fit and willing relative; and

      (B) That the department has taken steps to ensure that:

      (i) The ward’s substitute care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard; and

      (ii) The ward has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate activities, including consultation with the ward in an age-appropriate manner about the opportunities the ward has to participate in the activities.

      (i) If the current placement is not expected to be permanent, the court’s projected timetable for return home or for placement in another planned permanent living arrangement. If the timetable set forth by the court is not met, the department shall promptly notify the court and parties.

      (j) If the ward is an Indian child, the tribal affiliation of the ward.

      (k) If the ward is an Indian child and if the court determines that the permanency plan for the ward should be something other than to reunify the family, the court’s determination, by clear and convincing evidence, that:

      (A) Active efforts as described in ORS 419B.645 were provided to make it possible for the Indian child to safely return home;

      (B) Despite the efforts provided, continued removal of the Indian child is necessary to prevent serious emotional or physical damage to the Indian child;

      (C) The parent has not made sufficient progress to make it possible for the Indian child to safely return home; and

      (D) The new permanency plan complies with the placement preferences described in ORS 419B.654.

      (L) If the ward has been placed in an interstate placement, the court’s determination of whether the interstate placement continues to be appropriate and in the best interests of the ward.

      (6) In making the determinations under subsection (5)(h) of this section, the court shall ask the ward about the ward’s desired permanency outcome.

      (7) If the child is an Indian child:

      (a) The court shall follow the placement preferences described in ORS 419B.654.

      (b) If the court finds that the department did not provide active efforts to make it possible for the Indian child to safely return home, the court may not, at that permanency hearing, change the permanency plan to something other than to reunify the family.

      (c) If the court finds that the department did not provide active efforts to make it possible for the Indian child to return home, except as otherwise required under ORS 419B.470, the court may not set a date for a subsequent permanency hearing until the department has provided active efforts for the number of days that active efforts were not previously provided.

      (d)(A) If the court determines that tribal customary adoption, as described in ORS 419B.656, is an appropriate permanent placement for the child, and the Indian child’s tribe consents, the court shall request that the tribe file with the court a tribal customary adoption order or judgment evidencing that the tribal customary adoption has been completed. The tribe must file the tribal customary adoption order or judgment no less than 20 days prior to the date set by the court for hearing.

      (B) Upon the tribe’s request, the court may grant an extension of time to file the tribal customary adoption order or judgment, not to exceed 60 days.

      (C) If the tribe does not file the tribal customary adoption order or judgment within the designated time period, the court shall order a new permanency hearing to determine the best permanency plan for the child.

      (8) Any final decision of the court made pursuant to the permanency hearing is appealable under ORS 419A.200. On appeal of a final decision of the court under this subsection, the court’s finding, if any, under ORS 419B.340 (5) that the department is not required to make reasonable efforts to make it possible for the ward to safely return home is an interlocutory order to which a party may assign error. [1993 c.33 §137; 1993 c.546 §128; 1999 c.568 §2; 1999 c.859 §15; 2001 c.480 §9; 2001 c.622 §50; 2001 c.686 §16; 2001 c.910 §5; 2003 c.396 §81; 2003 c.544 §1a; 2007 c.611 §8; 2007 c.806 §11; 2015 c.254 §5; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §38; 2021 c.398 §65b]

 

(Termination of Parental Rights)

 

      419B.498 Termination of parental rights; petition by Department of Human Services; when required. (1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the Department of Human Services shall simultaneously file a petition to terminate the parental rights of a child or ward’s parents and identify, recruit, process and approve a qualified family for adoption if the child or ward is in the custody of the department and:

      (a) The child or ward has been in substitute care under the responsibility of the department for 15 months of the most recent 22 months;

      (b) A parent has been convicted of murder of another child of the parent, voluntary manslaughter of another child of the parent, aiding, abetting, attempting, conspiring or soliciting to commit murder or voluntary manslaughter of the child or ward or of another child of the parent or felony assault that has resulted in serious physical injury to the child or ward or to another child of the parent; or

      (c) A court of competent jurisdiction has determined that the child or ward is an abandoned child.

      (2) The department shall file a petition to terminate the parental rights of a parent in the circumstances described in subsection (1) of this section unless:

      (a) The child or ward is being cared for by a relative and that placement is intended to be permanent;

      (b) There is a compelling reason, which is documented in the case plan, for determining that filing such a petition would not be in the best interests of the child or ward. Such compelling reasons include, but are not limited to:

      (A) The parent is successfully participating in services that will make it possible for the child or ward to safely return home within a reasonable time as provided in ORS 419B.476 (5)(c);

      (B) Another permanent plan is better suited to meet the health and safety needs of the child or ward, including the need to preserve the child’s or ward’s sibling attachments and relationships;

      (C) If the child is an Indian child, the court finds that tribal customary adoption, as described in ORS 419B.656, is an appropriate permanent plan for the child and the Indian child’s tribe consents to the tribal customary adoption; or

      (D) The court or local citizen review board in a prior hearing or review determined that while the case plan was to reunify the family the department did not make reasonable efforts or, if the child or ward is an Indian child, active efforts, as described in ORS 419B.645, to make it possible for the child or ward to safely return home; or

      (c) The department has not provided to the family of the child or ward, consistent with the time period in the case plan, such services as the department deems necessary for the child or ward to safely return home, if reasonable efforts to make it possible for the child or ward to safely return home are required to be made with respect to the child or ward.

      (3) No petition to terminate the parental rights of a child or ward’s parents pursuant to subsection (1) of this section or pursuant to ORS 419B.500, 419B.502, 419B.504, 419B.506 or 419B.508 may be filed until the court has determined that the permanency plan for the child or ward should be adoption after a permanency hearing pursuant to ORS 419B.476. [1999 c.859 §21; 2001 c.686 §17; 2003 c.396 §82; 2003 c.544 §2; 2007 c.234 §1; 2007 c.806 §12; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §47; 2021 c.398 §65c]

 

      419B.500 Termination of parental rights generally. (1) The parental rights of the parents of a ward may be terminated as provided in this section and ORS 419B.502 to 419B.524, only upon a petition filed by the state or the ward for the purpose of freeing the ward for adoption if the court finds it is in the best interests of the ward and, if the ward is an Indian child, that the parents’ continued custody of the Indian child, as described in ORS 419B.606, is likely to result in serious emotional or physical harm to the ward. The rights of one parent may be terminated without affecting the rights of the other parent.

      (2) Upon the filing of a petition to terminate parental rights, the court shall make a finding, subject to the procedures under ORS 419B.636 (4), regarding whether there is reason to know that the ward is an Indian child. [1993 c.33 §138; 1993 c.546 §56; 1997 c.873 §6; 2003 c.396 §83; 2011 c.438 §5; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §48; 2021 c.398 §62]

 

      419B.502 Termination upon finding of extreme conduct. The rights of the parent or parents may be terminated as provided in ORS 419B.500 if the court finds that the parent or parents are unfit by reason of a single or recurrent incident of extreme conduct toward any child. In such case, no efforts need to be made by available social agencies to help the parent adjust the conduct in order to make it possible for the child or ward to safely return home within a reasonable amount of time. In determining extreme conduct, the court shall consider the following:

      (1) Rape, sodomy or sex abuse of any child by the parent.

      (2) Intentional starvation or torture of any child by the parent.

      (3) Abuse or neglect by the parent of any child resulting in death or serious physical injury.

      (4) Conduct by the parent to aid or abet another person who, by abuse or neglect, caused the death of any child.

      (5) Conduct by the parent to attempt, solicit or conspire, as described in ORS 161.405, 161.435 or 161.450 or under comparable laws of any jurisdiction, to cause the death of any child.

      (6) Previous involuntary terminations of the parent’s rights to another child if the conditions giving rise to the previous action have not been ameliorated.

      (7) Conduct by the parent that knowingly exposes any child of the parent to the storage or production of methamphetamines from precursors. In determining whether extreme conduct exists under this subsection, the court shall consider the extent of the child or ward’s exposure and the potential harm to the physical health of the child or ward. [1993 c.33 §139; 1995 c.767 §1; 1997 c.873 §5; 1999 c.859 §16; 2001 c.575 §1; 2001 c.686 §23; 2003 c.396 §84]

 

      419B.504 Termination upon finding of unfitness. The rights of the parent or parents may be terminated as provided in ORS 419B.500 if the court finds that the parent or parents are unfit by reason of conduct or condition seriously detrimental to the child or ward and integration of the child or ward into the home of the parent or parents is improbable within a reasonable time due to conduct or conditions not likely to change. In determining such conduct and conditions:

      (1) The court shall consider but is not limited to the following:

      (a) Conduct toward any child of an abusive, cruel or sexual nature.

      (b) Addictive or habitual use of intoxicating liquors, cannabis or controlled substances to the extent that parental ability has been substantially impaired.

      (c) Physical neglect of the child or ward.

      (d) Lack of effort of the parent to adjust the circumstances of the parent, conduct, or conditions to make it possible for the child or ward to safely return home within a reasonable time or failure of the parent to effect a lasting adjustment after reasonable efforts by available social agencies for such extended duration of time that it appears reasonable that no lasting adjustment can be effected.

      (e) Criminal conduct that impairs the parent’s ability to provide adequate care for the child or ward.

      (f) A mental health condition of the parent of such nature and duration as to render the parent incapable of providing proper care for the child or ward for extended periods of time.

      (2) The court may not consider a parent’s disability, as that term is defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.), unless the parent’s conduct related to the disability is of such nature and duration as to render the parent incapable of providing proper care for the child or ward for extended periods of time. [1993 c.33 §140; 1997 c.873 §7; 2001 c.686 §24; 2003 c.396 §85; 2007 c.70 §199; 2017 c.21 §56; 2018 c.74 §1]

 

      419B.506 Termination upon finding of neglect. The rights of the parent or parents may be terminated as provided in ORS 419B.500 if the court finds that the parent or parents have failed or neglected without reasonable and lawful cause to provide for the basic physical and psychological needs of the child or ward for six months prior to the filing of a petition. In determining such failure or neglect, the court shall disregard any incidental or minimal expressions of concern or support and shall consider but is not limited to one or more of the following:

      (1) Failure to provide care.

      (2) Failure to maintain regular visitation or other contact with the child or ward that was designed and implemented in a plan to reunite the child or ward with the parent.

      (3) Failure to contact or communicate with the child or ward or with the custodian of the child or ward. In making this determination, the court may disregard incidental visitations, communications or contributions. [1993 c.33 §141; 1997 c.873 §8; 2003 c.396 §86; 2023 c.291 §6]

 

      419B.508 Termination upon finding of abandonment. The rights of the parent or parents may be terminated as provided in ORS 419B.500 if the court finds that the parent or parents have abandoned the child or ward or the child or ward was left under circumstances such that the identity of the parent or parents of the child or ward was unknown and could not be ascertained, despite diligent searching, and the parent or parents have not come forward to claim the child or ward within three months following the finding of the child or ward. [1993 c.33 §142; 2003 c.396 §87]

 

      419B.510 Termination upon finding child conceived as result of rape. (1) The rights of the parent may be terminated as provided in ORS 419B.500 if the court finds that the child or ward was conceived as the result of an act that led to the parent’s conviction for rape under ORS 163.365 or 163.375 or other comparable law of another jurisdiction.

      (2) Termination of parental rights under subsection (1) of this section does not relieve the parent of any obligation to pay child support.

      (3) Termination of parental rights under subsection (1) of this section is an independent basis for termination of parental rights and the court need not make any of the considerations or findings described in ORS 419B.502, 419B.504, 419B.506 or 419B.508. [2011 c.438 §2]

 

419B.515 [1993 c.33 §143; 1993 c.546 §57; repealed by 2001 c.622 §57]

 

      419B.517 Mediation to be encouraged. (1) The use of mediation shall be encouraged in cases involving:

      (a) A parent or guardian in a juvenile dependency proceeding in which the child is taken into protective custody or placed in substitute care; or

      (b) The termination of parental rights.

      (2) If the child or ward is an Indian child, prior to hearing a petition for guardianship under ORS 419B.365 or 419B.366, or termination of parental rights under ORS 419B.500, the court shall offer to order mediation through the Department of Human Services, or, if there is mutual party agreement to private mediation and party assumption of costs, through other mediation services between the Indian child’s parents, the Indian child’s tribe and the proposed guardian or, if the hearing is for the termination of parental rights, the proposed adoptive placement. [1995 c.767 §4; 2005 c.656 §1; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §39; 2021 c.398 §63]

 

      Note: 419B.517 was added to and made a part of ORS chapter 419B by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.518 Appointment of counsel for parents. (1) If the parents are determined to be financially eligible, and request the assistance of appointed counsel, the court shall appoint an attorney to represent them at state expense. Appointment of counsel under this section is subject to ORS 135.055, 151.216 and 151.219.

      (2) The court may not substitute one appointed counsel for another except pursuant to the policies, procedures, standards and guidelines adopted under ORS 151.216. [1993 c.33 §144; 2001 c.962 §55; 2005 c.449 §4]

 

      419B.521 Conduct of termination hearing. (1) The court shall hold a hearing on the question of terminating the rights of the parent or parents. The court may not hold the hearing any earlier than 10 days after service or final publication of the summons. The facts on the basis of which the rights of the parents are terminated, unless admitted, must be established by clear and convincing evidence and a stenographic or other report authorized by ORS 8.340 shall be taken of the hearing.

      (2) Not earlier than provided in subsection (1) of this section and not later than six months from the date on which summons for the petition to terminate parental rights is served, the court before which the petition is pending shall hold a hearing on the petition except for good cause shown. When determining whether or not to grant a continuance for good cause, the judge shall take into consideration the age of the child or ward and the potential adverse effect delay may have on the child or ward. The court shall make written findings when granting a continuance.

      (3) The court, on its own motion or upon the motion of a party, may take testimony from any child appearing as a witness and may exclude the child’s parents and other persons if the court finds such action would be likely to be in the best interests of the child. However, the court may not exclude the attorney for each party and any testimony taken under this subsection shall be recorded.

      (4)(a) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, the termination of parental rights to an Indian child must be supported by evidence beyond a reasonable doubt, including testimony of qualified expert witnesses, that continued custody of the Indian child by the child’s parents is likely to result in serious emotional or physical damage to the child.

      (b) The court may not enter an order terminating parental rights to an Indian child unless:

      (A) The court has offered the parties the opportunity to participate in mediation as required under ORS 419B.517;

      (B) If requested by the tribe, and if the Department of Human Services has identified a proposed adoptive placement, an agreement is in place that requires the proposed adoptive placement to maintain connection between the Indian child and the Indian child’s tribe; and

      (C) After inquiry as required under ORS 419B.636 and notice as required under ORS 419B.639, and in addition to any other findings required under ORS 419B.500 to 419B.524, the court determines:

      (i) That evidence, including the testimony of one or more qualified expert witnesses under ORS 419B.642, establishes beyond a reasonable doubt that the continued custody of the Indian child by the child’s parent or custody by the child’s Indian custodian is likely to result in serious emotional or physical damage to the Indian child; and

      (ii) That active efforts under ORS 419B.645 to reunite the Indian family did not eliminate the necessity for termination based on serious emotional or physical damage to the Indian child.

      (c) The evidence under this subsection must show a causal relationship between the particular conditions in the Indian child’s home and the likelihood that continued custody of the Indian child by the child’s parents will result in serious emotional or physical damage to the particular Indian child who is the subject of the child custody proceeding, as defined in ORS 419B.603. Evidence that shows the existence of community or family poverty, isolation, single parenthood, custodian age, crowded or inadequate housing, substance abuse or nonconforming social behavior does not, by itself, establish a causal relationship as required by this paragraph.

      (d) As used in this subsection, “custody” and “continued custody” have the meanings described in ORS 419B.606. [1993 c.33 §145; 1993 c.546 §58; 1995 c.767 §2; 1997 c.873 §9; 2003 c.396 §88; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §49; 2021 c.398 §64]

 

      419B.524 Effect of termination order. (1) Except as provided in ORS 109.382, 109.383, 419B.532 or 419B.651, unless there is an appeal from the order terminating the rights of the parent or parents, the order permanently terminates all rights of the parent or parents whose rights are terminated and the parent or parents have no standing to appear as such in any legal proceeding concerning the ward.

      (2) A parent who is the subject of an order restoring parental rights under ORS 109.382 or 419B.651 may assert that the parental rights were never terminated without incurring a penalty for perjury or false swearing under the laws of the state. [1993 c.33 §146; 2003 c.396 §89; 2018 c.89 §4; 2021 c.398 §35]

 

      419B.527 Disposition of ward after termination. (1) After the entry of an order terminating the rights of the parent or parents of the ward, the court may:

      (a) Place the ward in the legal custody and guardianship of a public or private institution or agency authorized to consent in loco parentis to the adoption of children. An order pursuant to this paragraph is a “permanent commitment” for the purposes of ORS 109.118, 109.268, 109.301 to 109.330 and 109.350 to 109.390; or

      (b) Make any order directing disposition of the ward that it is empowered to make under this chapter.

      (2) If the rights of only one parent have been terminated, the authority to consent to the adoption of the ward as provided in subsection (1)(a) of this section is effective only with respect to the parent whose rights have been terminated. [1993 c.33 §147; 2003 c.396 §90; 2013 c.346 §13]

 

      419B.529 Adoption after permanent commitment or surrender; procedure; certain fees prohibited. (1) Notwithstanding ORS 109.276, a prospective adoptive parent is not required to file a petition for adoption when:

      (a) One of the following has occurred:

      (A) A juvenile court that is a circuit court has entered an order of permanent commitment of a ward to the Department of Human Services under ORS 419B.527; or

      (B) The parent has signed and the department has accepted a release and surrender to the department, and the parent has signed a certificate of irrevocability and waiver as provided in ORS 418.270 regarding a child;

      (b) The department has completed a home study as defined in ORS 109.266 that finds the prospective parent is suitable to adopt the child or ward and the department consents to the adoption of the child or ward by the prospective parent;

      (c) If the child is an Indian child:

      (A) The department has offered to coordinate mediation between the Indian child’s tribe and the proposed adoptive placement;

      (B) If requested by the tribe, an agreement is in place that requires the proposed adoptive parent to maintain connection between the Indian child and the Indian child’s tribe; and

      (C) If an agreement described in subparagraph (B) of this paragraph is in place, the department incorporates the terms of the agreement into the placement report;

      (d) Written evidence of the home study and a placement report requesting the juvenile court to enter a judgment of adoption have been filed in the juvenile court proceeding; and

      (e) At the time the placement report is filed under paragraph (d) of this subsection, the prospective adoptive parent files the adoption report form required under ORS 109.400.

      (2) If the child is an Indian child, a parent’s release, surrender or certificate of irrevocability and waiver under subsection (1)(a) of this section must meet the following requirements:

      (a) The court explained to the parent, on the record in detail and in the language of the parent, the parent’s right to legal counsel, the terms and consequences of the release, surrender or certificate of irrevocability and waiver and informed the parent that the parent may revoke the release, surrender or certificate of irrevocability and waiver at any time prior to the entry of the judgment of adoption;

      (b) The parent executed the release, surrender or certificate of irrevocability and waiver before the court;

      (c) The parent or child-caring agency filed a record of the release, surrender or certificate of irrevocability and waiver with the court; and

      (d) The court certified that the court provided the explanation as required under paragraph (a) of this subsection and that the parent fully understood the terms and consequences of the release and surrender.

      (3) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, a prospective adoptive parent is required to file an Adoption Summary and Segregated Information Statement with accompanying exhibits as provided under ORS 109.287.

      (4) Notwithstanding ORS 21.135, the clerk of the juvenile court may not charge or collect first appearance fees for a proceeding under this section.

      (5)(a) After the filing of written evidence of a home study and the placement report requesting the court to enter a judgment of adoption, the juvenile court that entered the order of permanent commitment, or the juvenile court having jurisdiction over a ward for whom the department has accepted a release and surrender and a certificate and waiver signed by the parent as provided in subsection (1)(a)(B) of this section, may proceed as provided in ORS 109.272 and 109.350 and may enter a judgment of adoption.

      (b) If the child is an Indian child and the Indian child’s tribe has entered into an agreement described in subsection (1)(c)(B) of this section, the judgment of adoption must include the terms of the agreement.

      (6) Records of adoptions filed and established under this section shall be kept in accordance with, and are subject to, ORS 109.289. [1997 c.873 §24; 1999 c.859 §24; 2003 c.396 §91; 2003 c.576 §449; 2011 c.595 §18; 2013 c.346 §8; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §50; 2021 c.398 §30]

 

      419B.530 Representation by Attorney General. (1) Whenever a juvenile court has before it an action to terminate parental rights, the juvenile court or the Department of Human Services may request the services of the Attorney General.

      (2) Whenever an action to terminate parental rights is before a juvenile court pursuant to ORS 419B.500, 419B.502, 419B.504, 419B.506 and 419B.508, the Attorney General shall have the same authority to assist the court as is granted to the district attorney under ORS 8.685. [1993 c.33 §148]

 

      419B.532 Reinstatement of parental rights; rules. (1) As used in this section, “former parent” means a person who was previously the legal parent of a ward and whose parental rights to the ward have been terminated.

      (2)(a) In a proceeding under ORS 419B.500, the Department of Human Services or a ward may file a motion to reinstate the parental rights of a former parent if:

      (A)(i) The ward has not been adopted; or

      (ii) The ward was previously adopted but no longer has a legal parent;

      (B) No legal action to achieve the adoption of the ward has been initiated under ORS 109.276 or 419B.529;

      (C) At least 18 months have passed since entry of the judgment terminating the former parent’s parental rights to the ward or, in the event of an appeal, at least six months have passed since issuance of an appellate judgment affirming the termination judgment, whichever is later; and

      (D) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, the ward is at least 12 years of age at the time the motion to reinstate parental rights is filed.

      (b) If the ward is under 12 years of age at the time the motion to reinstate parental rights is filed, the court may allow the motion upon a showing of good cause.

      (3) A motion to reinstate parental rights under this section must be in writing and state with particularity the factual and legal grounds for the motion.

      (4) The moving party shall provide a copy of the motion to reinstate parental rights to the former parent and shall notify the court, the parties and, if there is reason to know that the ward is an Indian child, the tribe that a copy of the motion has been provided.

      (5) If a motion to reinstate parental rights does not state a prima facie case as to the facts that must be proved under subsection (6) of this section, the court may deny the motion without a hearing.

      (6)(a) If a motion to reinstate parental rights states a prima facie case as to the facts that must be proved under this subsection, the court shall hold a hearing on the merits of the motion. The court shall grant the motion if the moving party proves by clear and convincing evidence that:

      (A) The former parent’s conduct and conditions that led to the termination of parental rights have been ameliorated and the former parent is presently fit;

      (B) The former parent wishes to have parental rights reinstated;

      (C) The ward consents to the reinstatement of parental rights; and

      (D) Reinstatement of parental rights is in the ward’s best interests.

      (b) In determining whether reinstatement of parental rights is in the ward’s best interests under paragraph (a) of this subsection, the court shall consider:

      (A) The ward’s health, safety, permanency, age, maturity and ability to express the ward’s preferences;

      (B) The reasons that the former parent’s parental rights were terminated;

      (C) The former parent’s stated reasons for wishing to have parental rights reinstated; and

      (D) The likely impact on the ward of the former parent’s past abuse or neglect.

      (c) The moving party shall provide notice to the former parent of a hearing on the merits under paragraph (a) of this subsection.

      (d) The department shall establish by rule procedures for investigating the present fitness of the former parent and for providing appropriate reunification services.

      (7) If the court grants the motion to reinstate parental rights under subsection (6) of this section:

      (a) The court shall enter an order reinstating parental rights that shall restore all parental rights and duties of the former parent as to the ward;

      (b) The ward shall continue as a ward of the court for at least six months after entry of the order reinstating parental rights; and

      (c) The court shall conduct a permanency hearing as provided in ORS 419B.470 within 60 days after entering the order under paragraph (a) of this subsection.

      (8) An order reinstating parental rights under this section does not vacate or otherwise affect the validity of the original judgment terminating the parental rights of the former parent except to the extent that the order reinstates parental rights.

      (9) In any proceeding under this section, the ward is entitled to have counsel appointed at state expense if the ward is determined to be financially eligible under the policies, procedures, standards and guidelines of the Oregon Public Defense Commission. [2018 c.89 §2; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §51; 2021 c.398 §75; 2023 c.281 §66]

(Emancipation of Minor)

 

      419B.550 Definitions for ORS 419B.550 to 419B.558. As used in ORS 419B.550 to 419B.558:

      (1) “Domicile” of a minor means the legal residence or domicile of the custodial parent or guardian.

      (2) “Emancipation” means conferral of certain rights of majority upon a minor, as enumerated in ORS 419B.552.

      (3) “Minor” means a person under the age of 18 years.

      (4) “Parent” means legal guardian or custodian, natural parent or adoptive parent if the minor has been legally adopted.

      (5) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, if a minor is subject to the jurisdiction of the juvenile court pursuant to ORS 419B.100 or 419C.005, the domicile of that minor shall be that of the court which has jurisdiction. [1993 c.546 §133]

 

      419B.552 Application for emancipation judgment; effect of judgment. (1) A juvenile court, upon the written application of a minor who is domiciled within the jurisdiction of such court, is authorized to enter a judgment of emancipation in the manner provided in ORS 419B.558. A judgment of emancipation shall serve only to:

      (a) Recognize the minor as an adult for the purposes of contracting and conveying, establishing a residence, suing and being sued, and making a will, and recognize the minor as an adult for purposes of the criminal laws of this state.

      (b) Terminate as to the parent and child relationship the provisions of ORS 109.010 until the child reaches the age of majority.

      (c) Terminate as to the parent and child relationship the provisions of ORS 108.045, 109.100, 419B.373, 419B.400, 419B.402, 419B.404, 419B.406, 419B.408 and 419C.550.

      (2) A judgment of emancipation shall not affect any age qualification for purchasing alcoholic liquor, the requirements for obtaining a marriage license, nor the minor’s status under ORS 109.510. [1993 c.546 §134; 2003 c.576 §450; 2015 c.387 §33; 2021 c.597 §73]

 

      419B.555 Hearing; notice to parent; duty to advise minor of liabilities of emancipated person; filing fee. (1) The juvenile court shall conduct a preliminary hearing on the minor’s application for emancipation within 10 days of the date on which it is filed or as soon as possible thereafter. At the time of the preliminary hearing, the court may issue a temporary custody order, stay any pending proceedings or enter any other temporary order appropriate to the circumstances. No action of the court pursuant to this subsection may be extended beyond the date set for a final hearing.

      (2) The final hearing shall be held no later than 60 days or as soon as possible after the date on which the application is filed.

      (3) Notice to the parent or parents of the applicant shall be made pursuant to ORS 419B.812 to 419B.839.

      (4) At the preliminary hearing, the court shall advise the minor of the civil and criminal rights and civil and criminal liabilities of an emancipated minor. This advice shall be recited in the judgment of emancipation.

      (5) The hearing mentioned in subsection (2) of this section may be waived by the minor and parent or parents.

      (6) The filing fee established under ORS 21.135 shall be charged and collected by the court for each application for emancipation. [1993 c.546 §135; 1997 c.801 §33; 2001 c.622 §51; 2003 c.576 §451; 2003 c.737 §§68,69; 2005 c.702 §§81,82,83; 2011 c.595 §64]

 

      419B.558 Entry of judgment of emancipation. (1) The juvenile court in its discretion may enter a judgment of emancipation where the minor is at least 16 years of age and the court finds that the best interests of the minor will be served by emancipation. In making its determination, the court shall take into consideration the following factors:

      (a) Whether the parent of the minor consents to the proposed emancipation;

      (b) Whether the minor has been living away from the family home and is substantially able to be self-maintained and self-supported without parental guidance and supervision; and

      (c) Whether the minor can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the court that the minor is sufficiently mature and knowledgeable to manage the minor’s affairs without parental assistance.

      (2) Upon entry of a judgment of emancipation by the court, the applicant shall be given a copy of the judgment. The judgment shall instruct that the applicant obtain an Oregon driver’s license or an Oregon identification card through the Department of Transportation and that the Department of Transportation make a notation of the minor’s emancipated status on the license or identification card.

      (3) An emancipated minor shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the adult courts for all criminal offenses. [1993 c.546 §136; 2003 c.576 §452]

 

INDIAN CHILD WELFARE

 

      419B.600 Policy on Indian child welfare. The Legislative Assembly finds that the United States Congress recognizes the special legal status of Indian tribes and their members. It is the policy of the State of Oregon to protect the health and safety of Indian children and the stability and security of Indian tribes and families by promoting practices designed to prevent the removal of Indian children from their families and, if removal is necessary and lawful, to prioritize the placement of an Indian child with the Indian child’s extended family and tribal community. The state recognizes the inherent jurisdiction of Indian tribes to make decisions regarding the custody of Indian children. The state also recognizes the importance of ensuring that Indian children and Indian families receive appropriate services to obviate the need to remove an Indian child from the Indian child’s home and, if removal is necessary and lawful, to effect the child’s safe return home. ORS 419B.600 to 419B.654 create additional safeguards for Indian children to address disproportionate rates of removal, to improve the treatment of and services provided to Indian children and Indian families in the child welfare system and to ensure that Indian children who must be removed are placed with Indian families, communities and cultures. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §1]

 

      Note: 419B.600 to 419B.665 were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 419B or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.603 Definitions. As used in ORS 419B.600 to 419B.654, unless the context provides otherwise:

      (1)(a) “Child custody proceeding” means a matter arising under ORS chapter 109, 418, 419A or 419B in which the legal custody or physical custody of an Indian child is an issue.

      (b) “Child custody proceeding” does not include:

      (A) A proceeding for the custody or support of, or parenting time with, a child under ORS 109.100, 109.103 or 109.119; or

      (B) An emergency proceeding.

      (2) “Emergency proceeding” means any court action that involves the emergency removal or emergency placement of an Indian child, including removal under ORS 419B.150, with or without a protective custody order, or a shelter care proceeding under ORS 419B.185.

      (3)(a) “Extended family member” has the meaning given that term by the law or custom of an Indian child’s tribe.

      (b) If the meaning of “extended family member” cannot be determined under paragraph (a) of this subsection, “extended family member” means a person who has attained 18 years of age and who is the Indian child’s grandparent, aunt, uncle, brother, sister, sister-in-law, brother-in-law, niece, nephew, first cousin, second cousin, stepparent or, as determined by the Indian child’s tribe, clan or band member.

      (4) “Indian” means a person who is a member of an Indian tribe or who is an Alaska Native and a member of a regional corporation as defined in section 7 of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1606).

      (5) “Indian child” means any unmarried person who has not attained 18 years of age and:

      (a) Is a member or citizen of an Indian tribe; or

      (b) Is eligible for membership or citizenship in an Indian tribe and is the biological child of a member of an Indian tribe.

      (6) “Indian custodian” means an Indian, other than the Indian child’s parent, who has custody, as described in ORS 419B.606 (1), of the Indian child, or to whom temporary physical care, custody and control has been transferred by the Indian child’s parent.

      (7) “Indian tribe” or “tribe” means any Indian tribe, band, nation or other organized group or community of Indians federally recognized as eligible for the services provided to Indians by the United States Secretary of the Interior because of their status as Indians, including any Alaska Native village as defined in 43 U.S.C. 1602(c).

      (8) “Juvenile court” has the meaning given that term in ORS 419A.004.

      (9) “Member” or “membership” means a determination by an Indian tribe that a person is a member or citizen in that Indian tribe.

      (10) “Parent” means:

      (a) A biological parent of an Indian child;

      (b) An Indian who has lawfully adopted an Indian child, including adoptions made under tribal law or custom; or

      (c) A father whose parentage has been acknowledged or established under ORS 109.065 or 419B.609.

      (11) “Party” or “parties” means parties to a proceeding, as described in ORS 419B.875.

      (12) “Reservation” means Indian country as defined in 18 U.S.C. 1151 and any lands not covered under that section, title to which is held by the United States in trust for the benefit of an Indian tribe or individual or held by an Indian tribe or individual subject to a restriction by the United States against alienation.

      (13) “Tribal court” means a court with jurisdiction over Indian child custody proceedings and that is either a Court of Indian Offenses, a court established and operated under the code or custom of an Indian tribe or any other administrative body of a tribe that is vested with authority over Indian child custody proceedings. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §2; 2021 c.398 §11]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.606 Custody; presumption of continued custody. (1) An individual has custody of an Indian child under ORS 419B.600 to 419B.654 if the individual has physical custody or legal custody of the Indian child under any applicable tribal law, tribal custom or state law.

      (2) An Indian child’s parent has continued custody of the Indian child under ORS 419B.600 to 419B.654 if the parent currently has, or previously had, custody of the Indian child.

      (3) For purposes of ORS 419B.600 to 419B.654, the following individuals are presumed to have continued custody of an Indian child:

      (a) The Indian child’s biological mother.

      (b) A man who is married to the Indian child’s biological mother.

      (c) A man whose parentage has been acknowledged or established as described in ORS 419B.609. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §3; 2021 c.398 §48]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.609 Acknowledgment or establishment of parentage. (1) A man’s parentage of an Indian child is acknowledged or established for purposes of ORS 109.266 to 109.410 and 419B.600 to 419B.654 and ORS chapter 419B if the man’s parentage has been:

      (a) Established under ORS 109.065;

      (b) Established under tribal law;

      (c) Recognized in accordance with tribal custom; or

      (d) Subject to subsection (2) of this section, acknowledged orally or in writing by the man to the court, to the Department of Human Services or to an Oregon licensed adoption agency.

      (2)(a) If a man acknowledges paternity of an Indian child as provided in subsection (1)(d) of this section, the department or the adoption agency must notify the court of the man’s acknowledgment immediately or, if a matter is not yet pending in this state, immediately upon filing a petition or being served with a copy of a petition alleging that the child is within the jurisdiction of the court under ORS 109.276 or 419B.100.

      (b) No later than 30 days after receiving the man’s oral or written acknowledgment under subsection (1)(d) of this section or receiving notice under paragraph (a) of this subsection of the man’s acknowledgment, the court shall order blood tests, subject to the provisions of ORS 109.252.

      (c) If any person fails to comply with the court’s order for blood tests within a reasonable amount of time, the court shall consider the person to have refused to submit to the test for the purposes of ORS 109.252.

      (d) If the blood tests ordered under paragraph (b) of this subsection do not confirm the man’s paternity as provided in ORS 109.258, or if the man has refused to consent to the blood tests, the man’s parentage has not been acknowledged or established for purposes of subsection (1) of this section. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §4; 2021 c.398 §41]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.612 Best interests of Indian child. In a child custody proceeding involving an Indian child, when making a determination regarding the best interests of the child under ORS 109.266 to 109.410 or 419B.600 to 419B.654, ORS chapter 419B, the Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. 1901 et seq.) or any regulations or rules regarding ORS 109.266 to 109.410 or 419B.600 to 419B.654, ORS chapter 419B, or the Indian Child Welfare Act, the court shall, in consultation with the Indian child’s tribe, consider the following:

      (1) The protection of the safety, well-being, development and stability of the Indian child;

      (2) The prevention of unnecessary out-of-home placement of the Indian child;

      (3) The prioritization of placement of the Indian child in accordance with the placement preferences under ORS 419B.654;

      (4) The value to the Indian child of establishing, developing or maintaining a political, cultural, social and spiritual relationship with the Indian child’s tribe and tribal community; and

      (5) The importance to the Indian child of the Indian tribe’s ability to maintain the tribe’s existence and integrity in promotion of the stability and security of Indian children and families. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §5; 2021 c.398 §49]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.615 Assistance enrolling child in tribe; notice to parents. (1) Unless an Indian child’s parent objects, the Department of Human Services shall provide assistance with enrolling an Indian child within the juvenile court’s jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 in a tribe with which the child is eligible for enrollment.

      (2) In any child custody proceeding under ORS chapter 419B, when the department determines the department has reason to know that the child is an Indian child, and if the department reasonably believes that the Indian child is eligible for enrollment in a tribe, the department shall notify the Indian child’s parent of the parent’s right to object to the department’s assistance under subsection (1) of this section. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §7; 2021 c.398 §47]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.618 Determination of Indian child’s tribe. (1) In a child custody proceeding in which an Indian child is alleged to be within the jurisdiction of the court under ORS chapter 109, 418, 419A or 419B, or in a hearing under ORS 419C.626 involving an Indian child, the Indian child’s tribe is:

      (a) If the Indian child is a member of or is eligible for membership in only one tribe, the tribe of which the Indian child is a member or eligible for membership.

      (b) If the Indian child is a member of one tribe but is eligible for membership in one or more other tribes, the tribe of which the Indian child is a member.

      (c) If the Indian child is a member of more than one tribe or if the Indian child is not a member of any tribe but is eligible for membership with more than one tribe:

      (A) The tribe designated by agreement between the tribes of which the Indian child is a member or in which the Indian child is eligible for membership; or

      (B) If the tribes are unable to agree on the designation of the Indian child’s tribe, the tribe designated by the court.

      (2) When designating an Indian child’s tribe under subsection (1)(c)(B) of this section, the court shall, after hearing, designate the tribe with which the Indian child has the more significant contacts, taking into consideration the following:

      (a) The preference of the Indian child’s parent;

      (b) The duration of the Indian child’s current or prior domicile or residence on or near the reservation of each tribe;

      (c) The tribal membership of the Indian child’s custodial parent or Indian custodian;

      (d) The interests asserted by each tribe;

      (e) Whether a tribe has previously adjudicated a case involving the Indian child; and

      (f) If the court determines that the Indian child is of sufficient age and capacity to meaningfully self-identify, the self-identification of the Indian child. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §8; 2021 c.398 §12]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.621 Judicial determination of Indian child’s residence, domicile and status as ward. In any child custody proceeding based on allegations that an Indian child is within the jurisdiction of the court under ORS 109.266 to 109.410 or ORS chapter 419B, the court must determine the residence and domicile of the Indian child and whether the Indian child is a ward of tribal court. The court shall communicate with any tribal courts to the extent necessary to make a determination under this section. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §9; 2021 c.398 §3]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.622 Domicile. For purposes of ORS 419B.600 to 419B.654:

      (1) A person’s domicile is the place the person regards as home, where the person intends to remain or to which, if absent, the person intends to return.

      (2) An Indian child’s domicile is, in order of priority, the domicile of:

      (a) The Indian child’s parents or, if the Indian child’s parents do not have the same domicile, the Indian child’s parent who has physical custody of the Indian child;

      (b) The Indian child’s Indian custodian; or

      (c) The Indian child’s guardian. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §6]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.624 Tribal-state agreements. (1)(a) The Department of Human Services shall make a good faith effort to enter into a tribal-state agreement with any Indian tribe within the borders of this state.

      (b) The department may also enter into a tribal-state agreement with any Indian tribe outside of this state having significant numbers of member children or membership-eligible children residing in this state.

      (2) The purposes of a tribal-state agreement are to promote the continued existence and integrity of the Indian tribe as a political entity and to protect the vital interests of Indian children in securing and maintaining political, cultural and social relationships with their tribe.

      (3) A tribal-state agreement may include agreements regarding default jurisdiction over cases in which the state courts and tribal courts have concurrent jurisdiction, the transfer of cases between state courts and tribal courts, the assessment, removal, placement, custody and adoption of Indian children and any other child welfare services provided to Indian children.

      (4) A tribal-state agreement must:

      (a) Provide for the cooperative delivery of child welfare services to Indian children in this state, including the utilization, to the extent available, of services provided by the tribe or an organization whose mission is to serve the American Indian or Alaska Native population to implement the terms of the tribal-state agreement; and

      (b) If services provided by the tribe or an organization whose mission is to serve the American Indian or Alaska Native population are unavailable, provide for the department’s use of community services and resources developed specifically for Indian families and that have the demonstrated experience and capacity to provide culturally relevant and effective services to Indian children. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §10; 2021 c.398 §50]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.627 Jurisdiction; limitations; tribal court assumption of jurisdiction. (1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the court’s jurisdiction under ORS 109.276 (4) or 419B.100 (1) in a case involving an Indian child is concurrent with the Indian child’s tribe.

      (2) If a tribe is not subject to Public Law 83-280, the tribe has exclusive jurisdiction in a case described in ORS 109.276 (4) or 419B.100 (1) involving an Indian child if:

      (a) The Indian child is a ward of a tribal court of the tribe; or

      (b) The Indian child resides or is domiciled within the reservation of the tribe.

      (3)(a) An Indian tribe subject to Public Law 83-280 may limit the court’s exercise of jurisdiction under ORS 109.276 (4) or 419B.100 (1) over an Indian child by entering into a tribal-state agreement described in ORS 419B.624.

      (b) The court shall decline to exercise its jurisdiction under ORS 109.276 (4) or 419B.100 (1) over an Indian child who is a ward of a tribal court or who resides or is domiciled within the reservation of a tribe if:

      (A) The tribe has entered into a tribal-state agreement in which the state has agreed to decline jurisdiction; and

      (B) The tribal-state agreement provides that the tribe has default jurisdiction over those cases.

      (c)(A) If the court declines to exercise its jurisdiction under paragraph (b) of this subsection, the court shall coordinate with the tribal court to facilitate the tribal court’s assumption of jurisdiction.

      (B) The court shall:

      (i) Allow the Indian child’s parent, Indian custodian or tribe to participate in any communications under this subsection with a tribal court or, if the person is unable to participate in a communication, provide the person with an opportunity to represent facts and legal arguments supporting the person’s position before the court makes a decision regarding jurisdiction;

      (ii) Create records of any communications under this subsection;

      (iii) Notify the Indian child’s parent, Indian custodian or tribe in advance of each communication; and

      (iv) Provide the Indian child’s parent, Indian custodian or tribe with access to the record of the communication.

      (C) Communications between the court and a tribal court regarding calendars, court records and similar matters may occur without informing the parties or creating a record of the communications.

      (D) As used in this paragraph, “record” means information that is inscribed on a tangible medium or that is stored in an electronic or other medium and is retrievable in perceivable form.

      (4) Notwithstanding subsections (2) and (3) of this section, the juvenile court has temporary exclusive jurisdiction over an Indian child who is taken into protective custody under ORS 419B.150 or 419B.152. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §12; 2021 c.398 §1]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.630 Motion to transfer to tribal court; objection; good cause to deny transfer. (1) Except as provided in subsection (5) of this section, the court shall transfer a child custody proceeding under ORS 109.266 to 109.410 or ORS chapter 419B involving an Indian child if, at any time during the proceeding, the Indian child’s parent, Indian custodian or tribe petitions the court to transfer the proceeding to the tribal court.

      (2) Upon receipt of a transfer motion, the court shall contact the Indian child’s tribe and request a timely response regarding whether the tribe intends to decline the transfer.

      (3) Transfer of the proceeding is inappropriate if:

      (a) The Indian child’s tribe has declined the transfer;

      (b) One or both of the Indian child’s parents object to the transfer; or

      (c) Good cause exists to deny the transfer.

      (4)(a) If a party objects to the transfer motion for good cause, the court shall fix the time for hearing on objections to the motion.

      (b) At the hearing, the objecting party has the burden of proof of establishing by clear and convincing evidence that good cause exists to deny the transfer.

      (c) If the Indian child’s tribe contests the assertion that good cause exists to deny the transfer, the court shall give the tribe’s argument substantial weight.

      (d) When making a determination whether good cause exists to deny the transfer motion, the court may not consider:

      (A) Whether the proceeding is at an advanced stage;

      (B) Whether there has been a prior proceeding involving the Indian child in which a transfer motion was not filed;

      (C) Whether the transfer could affect the placement of the Indian child;

      (D) The Indian child’s cultural connections with the tribe or the tribe’s reservation;

      (E) The socioeconomic conditions of the Indian child’s tribe or any negative perception of tribal or United States Bureau of Indian Affairs’ social services or judicial systems; or

      (F) Whether the transfer serves the best interests of the Indian child.

      (5)(a) The court shall deny the transfer motion if:

      (A) The tribe declines the transfer orally on the record or in writing;

      (B) The Indian child’s parent objects to the transfer; or

      (C) The court finds by clear and convincing evidence, after hearing, that good cause exists to deny the transfer.

      (b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a)(B) of this subsection, the objection of the Indian child’s parent does not preclude the transfer if:

      (A) The objecting parent dies or the objecting parent’s parental rights are terminated and have not been reinstated under ORS 419B.532; and

      (B) The Indian child’s remaining parent, Indian custodian or tribe files a new transfer motion subsequent to the death of the objecting parent or the termination of the parental rights of the objecting parent.

      (6) If the court denies a transfer under this section, the court shall document the basis for the denial in a written order. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §13; 2021 c.398 §4]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.633 Transfer to tribal court. Upon granting a transfer motion under ORS 419B.630, the court shall expeditiously:

      (1) Notify the tribal court of the pending dismissal of the child custody proceeding;

      (2) Transfer all information regarding the proceeding, including pleadings and court records, to the tribal court;

      (3) If the Indian child is alleged to be within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court under ORS 419B.100, direct the Department of Human Services to:

      (a) Coordinate with the tribal court and the Indian child’s tribe to ensure that the transfer of the proceeding and the transfer of custody of the Indian child is accomplished with minimal disruption of services to the Indian child and the Indian child’s family; and

      (b) Provide the Indian child’s tribe with documentation related to the Indian child’s eligibility for state and federal assistance and information related to the Indian child’s social history, treatment diagnosis and services and other relevant case and service related data; and

      (4) Dismiss the proceeding upon confirmation from the tribal court that the tribal court received the transferred information. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §14; 2021 c.398 §5]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.636 Inquiry to determine whether child is Indian child; when there is reason to know child is Indian child; notice. (1) In an emergency proceeding, the person taking the child into protective custody shall make a good faith effort to:

      (a) Determine whether the person has reason to know that the child is an Indian child; and

      (b) Contact by telephone, electronic mail, facsimile or other means of immediate communication any tribe of which the child is or may be a member to determine the child’s affiliation.

      (2) Except as provided in subsection (1) of this section or if the person already knows that a child is an Indian child, whenever a person is required under ORS 419C.626 or ORS chapter 109, 418, 419A or 419B to determine whether the person has reason to know that the child is an Indian child, the person shall make a good faith effort to determine whether the child is an Indian child, including, at a minimum, consulting with:

      (a) The child;

      (b) The child’s parent or parents;

      (c) Any person having custody of the child or with whom the child resides;

      (d) Extended family members of the child;

      (e) Any other person who may reasonably be expected to have information regarding the child’s membership or eligibility for membership in an Indian tribe; and

      (f) Any Indian tribe of which the child may be a member or of which the child may be eligible for membership.

      (3) A court or person has reason to know that a child is an Indian child if:

      (a) The person knows that the child is an Indian child;

      (b) The court has found that the child is an Indian child or that there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child;

      (c) Any individual present in the proceeding, officer of the court involved in the proceeding, Indian tribe, Indian organization or agency informs the court or the person that the child is an Indian child;

      (d) Any individual present in the proceeding, officer of the court involved in the proceeding, agency, Indian tribe or Indian organization informs the court or the person that information has been discovered indicating that the child is an Indian child;

      (e) The child indicates to the court or the person that the child is an Indian child;

      (f) The court or the person is informed that the domicile or residence of the child, the child’s parent or the child’s Indian custodian is on a reservation or in an Alaska Native village;

      (g) The court or the person is informed that the child is or has been a ward of a tribal court;

      (h) The court or the person is informed that the child or the child’s parent possesses an identification card or other record indicating membership in an Indian tribe;

      (i) Testimony or documents presented to the court or the person indicate in any way that the child may be an Indian child; or

      (j) Any other indicia provided to the court or the person, or within the knowledge of the court or the person, indicates that the child is an Indian child.

      (4)(a) Except as provided in ORS 109.278, whenever a person is required to demonstrate to the court that the person made efforts to determine whether a child is an Indian child, the court shall make written findings regarding whether the person satisfied the inquiry requirements under subsection (1) or (2) of this section, as appropriate, and whether the child is an Indian child, there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child or there is not reason to know that the child is an Indian child.

      (b) At the commencement of any hearing in which the court is required to inquire whether a child is an Indian child, unless the court previously found that the child is an Indian child, the court shall ask, on the record, each individual present on the matter whether the individual has reason to know that the child is an Indian child and shall make a finding regarding whether there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child.

      (c) If the court finds under paragraph (a) or (b) of this subsection that there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child but the court does not have sufficient evidence to find that the child is an Indian child, the court shall order that the child be treated as an Indian child until the court finds that the child is not an Indian child.

      (d) If the court finds under paragraph (a) or (b) of this subsection that there is not reason to know that the child is an Indian child, the court shall order each party to immediately inform the court if the party receives information providing reason to know that the child is an Indian child.

      (5) If the court finds under subsection (4) of this section that there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child but the court does not have sufficient evidence to make a finding that the child is or is not an Indian child, the court shall require the Department of Human Services or other party to submit a report, declaration or testimony on the record that the department or the other party used due diligence to identify and work with all of the tribes of which the child may be a member or in which the child may be eligible for membership to verify whether the child is a member or is eligible for membership.

      (6)(a) A person making an inquiry under subsection (1) or (2) of this section shall request that any tribe receiving information under this section keep documents and information regarding the inquiry confidential if a consenting parent in an adoption proceeding under ORS 109.266 to 109.410 requests anonymity.

      (b) A consenting parent’s request for anonymity does not relieve the court or any party in an adoption proceeding from the duty to verify whether the child is an Indian child. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §15; 2021 c.398 §14]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.639 Notice to tribe in emergency proceeding; notice in other proceedings; form and timing of notice; exception. (1)(a) In an emergency proceeding, if there is reason to know that a child is an Indian child and the nature of the emergency allows, the Department of Human Services must notify by telephone, electronic mail, facsimile or other means of immediate communication any tribe of which the child is or may be a member.

      (b) Notification under this subsection must include the basis for the child’s removal, the time, date and place of the initial hearing and a statement that the tribe has the right to participate in the proceeding as a party or in an advisory capacity under ORS 419B.875.

      (2) Except as provided in subsection (1) of this section, if there is reason to know that a child alleged to be within the court’s jurisdiction under ORS chapter 109, 418, 419A or 419B is an Indian child and notice is required, the party providing notice must:

      (a) Promptly send notice of the proceeding as described in subsection (3) of this section; and

      (b) File a copy of each notice sent under this section with the court, together with any return receipts or other proof of service.

      (3) Notice under subsection (2) of this section must:

      (a) Be sent to:

      (A) Each tribe of which the child may be a member or of which the Indian child may be eligible for membership;

      (B) The child’s parents;

      (C) The child’s Indian custodian, if applicable; and

      (D) The appropriate United States Bureau of Indian Affairs Regional Director listed in 25 C.F.R. 23.11(b), if the identity or location of the child’s parents, Indian custodian or tribe cannot be ascertained.

      (b) Be sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested.

      (c) Be in clear and understandable language and include the following:

      (A) The child’s name, date of birth and place of birth;

      (B) To the extent known, all names, including maiden, married and former names or aliases, of the child’s parents, the parents’ birthplaces and tribal enrollment numbers;

      (C) To the extent known, the names, dates of birth, places of birth and tribal enrollment information of other direct lineal ancestors of the child;

      (D) The name of each Indian tribe of which the child is a member or in which the Indian child may be eligible for membership;

      (E) If notice is required to be sent to the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs under paragraph (a) of this subsection, to the extent known, information regarding the child’s direct lineal ancestors, an ancestral chart for each biological parent, and the child’s tribal affiliations and blood quantum;

      (F) A copy of the petition or motion initiating the proceeding and, if a hearing has been scheduled, information on the date, time and location of the hearing;

      (G) The name of the petitioner and the name and address of the petitioner’s attorney;

      (H) In a proceeding under ORS chapter 419B:

      (i) A statement that the child’s parent or Indian custodian has the right to participate in the proceeding as a party to the proceeding under ORS 419B.875;

      (ii) A statement that the child’s tribe has the right to participate in the proceeding as a party or in an advisory capacity under ORS 419B.875;

      (iii) A statement that if the court determines that the child’s parent or Indian custodian is unable to afford counsel, the parent or Indian custodian has the right to court-appointed counsel; and

      (iv) A statement that the child’s parent, Indian custodian or tribe has the right, upon request, to up to 20 additional days to prepare for the proceeding;

      (I) In a proceeding under ORS 109.266 to 109.410, a statement that the child’s tribe may intervene in the proceeding;

      (J) A statement that the child’s parent, Indian custodian or tribe has the right to petition the court to transfer the child custody proceeding to the tribal court;

      (K) A statement describing the potential legal consequences of the proceeding on the future parental and custodial rights of the parent or Indian custodian;

      (L) The mailing addresses and telephone numbers of the court and contact information for all parties to the proceeding and individuals notified under this section; and

      (M) A statement that the information contained in the notice is confidential and that the notice should not be shared with any person not needing the information to exercise rights under ORS 419B.600 to 419B.654.

      (4) If there is a reason to know that the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian has limited English proficiency and may not understand the contents of the notice under subsection (2) of this section, the court must provide language access services as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other applicable federal and state laws. If the court is unable to secure translation or interpretation support, the court shall contact or direct a party to contact the Indian child’s tribe or the local office of the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs for assistance identifying a qualified translator or interpreter.

      (5)(a) A hearing that requires notice under subsection (2) of this section may not be held until at least 10 days after the latest of receipt of the notice by the Indian child’s parent, Indian custodian or tribe or, if applicable, the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs. Upon request, the court shall grant the Indian child’s parent, Indian custodian or tribe up to 20 additional days from the date upon which notice was received by the parent, Indian custodian or tribe to prepare for participation in the hearing.

      (b) Nothing in this subsection prevents a court at an emergency proceeding before the expiration of the waiting period described in paragraph (a) of this subsection from reviewing the removal of an Indian child from the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian to determine whether the removal or placement is no longer necessary to prevent imminent physical damage or harm to the Indian child. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §16; 2021 c.398 §15]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.642 Qualified expert witness. (1) In any child custody proceeding under ORS chapter 109 or 419B that requires the testimony of a qualified expert witness, the petitioner shall contact the Indian child’s tribe and request that the tribe identify one or more individuals meeting the criteria described in subsection (3) or (4) of this section. The petitioner may also request the assistance of the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs in locating individuals meeting the criteria described in subsection (3) or (4) of this section. The petitioner shall file a declaration with the court describing the efforts the petitioner made under this subsection to identify a qualified expert witness.

      (2) At a hearing under ORS 109.326, 109.330, 419B.340, 419B.365, 419B.366 or 419B.521, if the court has found that there is reason to know that a child is an Indian child, at least one qualified expert witness must testify regarding:

      (a) Whether the continued custody of the Indian child by the child’s parent or custody by the child’s Indian custodian is likely to result in serious emotional or physical damage to the Indian child; and

      (b) The prevailing social and cultural standards and child rearing practices of the Indian child’s tribe.

      (3) A person is a qualified expert witness under this section if the Indian child’s tribe has designated the person as being qualified to testify to the prevailing social and cultural standards of the tribe.

      (4) If the Indian child’s tribe has not identified a qualified expert witness, the following individuals, in order of priority, may testify as a qualified expert witness:

      (a) A member of the Indian child’s tribe or another person who is recognized by the tribe as knowledgeable about tribal customs regarding family organization or child rearing practices;

      (b) A person having substantial experience in the delivery of child and family services to Indians and extensive knowledge of prevailing social and cultural standards and child rearing practices within the Indian child’s tribe; or

      (c) Any person having substantial experience in the delivery of child and family services to Indians and knowledge of prevailing social and cultural standards and child rearing practices in Indian tribes with cultural similarities to the child’s tribe.

      (5) In addition to testimony from a qualified expert witness, the court may hear supplemental testimony regarding information described in subsection (2) of this section from a professional having substantial education and experience in the area of the professional’s specialty.

      (6) No petitioning party, employees of the petitioning party or an employee of the Department of Human Services may serve as a qualified expert witness or a professional under this section. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §17; 2021 c.398 §52]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.645 Active efforts. (1) As used in this section, “active efforts” means efforts that are affirmative, active, thorough, timely and intended to maintain or reunite an Indian child with the Indian child’s family.

      (2) If there is reason to know that a child in a proceeding under ORS 109.266 to 109.410 or ORS chapter 419B is an Indian child and active efforts are required, the court must determine whether active efforts have been made to prevent the breakup of the family or to reunite the family.

      (3) Active efforts require a higher standard of conduct than reasonable efforts.

      (4) Active efforts must:

      (a) Be documented in detail in writing and on the record;

      (b) If the child is alleged to be within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court under ORS 419B.100, include assisting the Indian child’s parent or parents or Indian custodian through the steps of a case plan and with accessing or developing the resources necessary to satisfy the case plan;

      (c) Include providing assistance in a manner consistent with the prevailing social and cultural standards and way of life of the Indian child’s tribe;

      (d) Be conducted in partnership with the Indian child and the Indian child’s parents, extended family members, Indian custodians and tribe; and

      (e) Be tailored to the facts and circumstances of the case.

      (5) Active efforts may include, as applicable, the following:

      (a) Conducting a comprehensive assessment of the circumstances of the Indian child’s family, with a focus on reunification as the most desirable goal;

      (b) Identifying appropriate services and helping the Indian child’s parents overcome barriers to reunification, including actively assisting the parents in obtaining the identified services;

      (c) Identifying, notifying and inviting representatives of the Indian child’s tribe to participate in providing support and services to the Indian child’s family and in family team meetings, permanency planning, resolution of placement issues, reviews or other case management related meetings;

      (d) Conducting or causing to be conducted a diligent search for the Indian child’s extended family members, contacting and consulting with the Indian child’s extended family members and adult relatives to provide family structure and support for the Indian child and the Indian child’s parents;

      (e) Offering and employing culturally appropriate family preservation strategies and facilitating the use of remedial and rehabilitative services provided by the Indian child’s tribe;

      (f) Taking steps to keep the Indian child and the Indian child’s siblings together whenever possible;

      (g) Supporting regular visits with the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian in the most natural setting possible, as well as trial home visits during any period of removal, consistent with the need to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the Indian child;

      (h) Identifying community resources, including housing, financial assistance, employment training, transportation, mental health, health care, substance abuse prevention and treatment, parent training, transportation and peer support services and actively assisting the Indian child’s parents or, when appropriate, the Indian child’s extended family members, in utilizing and accessing those resources;

      (i) Monitoring progress and participation of the Indian child’s parents, Indian custodian or extended family members in the services as described in paragraphs (b), (c), (e) and (h) of this subsection;

      (j) Considering alternative options to address the needs of the Indian child’s parents and, where appropriate, the Indian child’s extended family members, if the services as described in paragraphs (b), (c), (e) and (h) of this subsection are not available;

      (k) Providing post-reunification services and monitoring while the Indian child is within the juvenile court’s jurisdiction; and

      (L) Any other efforts that are appropriate to the Indian child’s circumstances. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §18; 2021 c.398 §20]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.646 Right to appear; withdrawal by party. (1) Notwithstanding ORS 9.160 and 9.320, a tribe that is a party to a proceeding under ORS 419B.875 (1)(a)(H) may be represented by any individual, regardless of whether the individual is licensed to practice law.

      (2) An attorney who is not barred from practicing law in this state may appear in any proceeding involving an Indian child without associating with local counsel if the attorney establishes to the satisfaction of the Oregon State Bar that:

      (a) The attorney will appear in a court in this state for the limited purpose of participating in a proceeding under ORS chapter 419B subject to the provisions of ORS 419B.600 to 419B.654;

      (b) The attorney represents an Indian child’s parent, Indian custodian or tribe; and

      (c) The Indian child’s tribe has affirmed the Indian child’s membership or eligibility for membership under tribal law.

      (3) Notwithstanding ORS 419B.875 (1)(a)(H), an Indian custodian or tribe may notify the court, orally on the record or in writing, that the Indian custodian or tribe withdraws as a party to the proceeding. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §19]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.647 Right to counsel. (1) If there is reason to know that a child in a proceeding under ORS chapter 419B is an Indian child:

      (a) The court shall appoint counsel to represent the Indian child.

      (b) If the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian requests counsel to represent the parent or Indian custodian but is without sufficient financial means to employ suitable counsel possessing skills and experience commensurate with the nature of the petition and the complexity of the case, the court shall appoint suitable counsel to represent the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian if the parent or Indian custodian is determined to be financially eligible under the policies, procedures, standards and guidelines of the Oregon Public Defense Commission.

      (2) Upon presentation of the order of appointment under this section by the attorney for the Indian child, any agency, hospital, school organization, division or department of the state, doctor, nurse or other health care provider, psychologist, psychiatrist, police department or mental health clinic shall permit the attorney for the Indian child to inspect and copy any records of the Indian child involved in the case, without the consent of the Indian child or the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian. This subsection does not apply to records of a police agency relating to an ongoing investigation prior to bringing charges. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §20; 2023 c.281 §67]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.648 Right to examine reports or documents. (1) In any child custody proceeding under ORS 109.326 or 109.330 or ORS chapter 419B when there is reason to know that the child is an Indian child, each party has the right to timely examine all reports or other documents held by the Department of Human Services that are not otherwise subject to a discovery exception under ORS 419B.881 or precluded under state or federal law.

      (2) The preservation of confidentiality under this section does not relieve the court or any petitioners in an adoption proceeding from the duty to comply with the placement preferences under ORS 419B.654 (2) if the child is an Indian child. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §21; 2021 c.398 §28]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.651 Vacating order or judgment regarding jurisdiction, placement, guardianship or termination of parental rights; effect of vacated order or judgment. (1) A petition to vacate an order or a judgment involving an Indian child regarding jurisdiction, placement, guardianship or the termination of parental rights may be filed in a pending child custody proceeding involving the Indian child or, if none, in any state or local court of competent jurisdiction by:

      (a) The Indian child who was alleged to be within the jurisdiction of the court under ORS 109.276 or 419B.100;

      (b) The Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian from whose custody such child was removed or whose parental rights were terminated; or

      (c) The Indian child’s tribe.

      (2)(a) The court shall vacate an order or judgment involving an Indian child regarding jurisdiction, placement, guardianship or the termination of parental rights if the court determines that any provision of ORS 418.312, 419B.627, 419B.630, 419B.639 (2), (3)(a) or (b) or (5)(a), 419B.647 (1) or 419B.648 or, where required, ORS 419B.642 (2), 419B.645 or 419B.654 has been violated and the court determines it is appropriate to vacate the order or judgment.

      (b) If the vacated order or judgment resulted in the removal or placement of the Indian child, the court shall order the child immediately returned to the Indian child’s parent or Indian custodian and the court’s order must include a transition plan for the physical custody of the child, which may include protective supervision under ORS 419B.331.

      (c) If the vacated order or judgment terminated parental rights, the court shall order the previously terminated parental rights to be restored.

      (d) If the state or any other party affirmatively asks the court to reconsider the issues under the vacated order or judgment, the court’s findings or determinations must be readjudicated.

      (3) As used in this section, “termination of parental rights” includes the involuntary termination of parental rights under ORS chapter 419B or the termination of parental rights resulting from an adoption proceeding under ORS 109.266 to 109.410. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §22; 2021 c.398 §37]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.652 Determination regarding improper removal or retainment; effect of determination; exception. (1) The juvenile court, on the court’s own motion or on the motion of any party, shall expeditiously determine whether an Indian child asserted to be within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court under ORS 419B.100 has been improperly removed or improperly retained following a visit or temporary relinquishment of custody. A motion under this section may be made orally on the record or in writing.

      (2) If the court finds that the Indian child has been improperly removed or improperly retained, the court shall order the Department of Human Services to immediately return the Indian child to the child’s parent or Indian custodian and dismiss the proceeding, unless the court determines by clear and convincing evidence that doing so would subject the child to substantial and immediate danger or a threat of substantial and immediate danger. [2021 c.398 §39]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.654 Placement preferences; motion for placement contrary to preferences for good cause. (1) If the parental rights of an Indian child’s parents have not been terminated and the Indian child is in need of placement or continuation in substitute care, as defined in ORS 419A.004, except as provided in subsection (3) of this section the child must be placed in the least restrictive setting that:

      (a) Most closely approximates a family, taking into consideration sibling attachment;

      (b) Allows the Indian child’s special needs, if any, to be met;

      (c) Is in reasonable proximity to the Indian child’s home, extended family or siblings; and

      (d)(A) Is in accordance with the order of preference established by the Indian child’s tribe; or

      (B) If the Indian child’s tribe has not established placement preferences, is in accordance with the following order of preference:

      (i) A member of the Indian child’s extended family;

      (ii) A foster home licensed, approved or specified by the Indian child’s tribe;

      (iii) A foster home licensed or approved by a licensing authority in this state and in which one or more of the licensed or approved foster parents is an Indian; or

      (iv) An institution for children that has a program suitable to meet the Indian child’s needs and is approved by an Indian tribe or operated by an Indian organization.

      (2) If the parental rights of the Indian child’s parents have been terminated or if an Indian child is in need of a guardianship pursuant to ORS 419B.365 or 419B.366 or adoptive placement, except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, the Indian child shall be placed:

      (a) In accordance with the order of preference established by the Indian child’s tribe; or

      (b) If the Indian child’s tribe has not established placement preferences, according to the following order of preference:

      (A) With a member of the Indian child’s extended family;

      (B) With other members of the Indian child’s tribe; or

      (C) With other Indian families.

      (3)(a) A party may move the court for authority to make a placement contrary to the placement preferences of subsection (1) or (2) of this section. The motion must detail the reasons the party asserts that good cause exists for placement contrary to the placement preferences established by subsection (1) or (2) of this section.

      (b) Upon the filing of an objection to a motion under this subsection, the court shall fix the time for hearing on the objections.

      (c) If the court determines that the moving party has established, by clear and convincing evidence, that there is good cause to depart from the placement preferences under this section, the court may authorize placement in an alternative placement.

      (d) The court’s determination under paragraph (c) of this subsection:

      (A) Must be in writing and be based on:

      (i) The preferences of the Indian child;

      (ii) The presence of a sibling attachment that cannot be maintained through placement consistent with the placement preferences established by subsection (1) or (2) of this section;

      (iii) Any extraordinary physical, mental or emotional needs of the Indian child that require specialized treatment services if, despite active efforts, those services are unavailable in the community where families who meet the placement preferences under subsection (1) or (2) of this section reside; or

      (iv) Whether, despite a diligent search, a placement meeting the placement preferences under this section is unavailable, as determined by the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community in which the Indian child’s parent or extended family resides or with which the Indian child’s parent or extended family members maintain social and cultural ties.

      (B) Must, in applying the placement preferences under this subsection, give weight to a parent’s request for anonymity if the placement is an adoptive placement to which the parent has consented.

      (C) May be informed by but not determined by the placement request of a parent of the Indian child, after the parent has reviewed the placement options, if any, that comply with the placement preferences under this section.

      (D) May not be based on:

      (i) The socioeconomic conditions of the Indian child’s tribe;

      (ii) Any perception of the tribal or United States Bureau of Indian Affairs social services or judicial systems;

      (iii) The distance between a placement meeting the placement preferences under this section that is located on or near a reservation and the Indian child’s parent; or

      (iv) The ordinary bonding or attachment between the Indian child and a nonpreferred placement arising from time spent in the nonpreferred placement.

      (4) The court, on the court’s own motion or on the motion of any party, shall make a determination under ORS 419B.651 (2) regarding the Indian child’s placement if the court or the moving party has reason to believe that the child was placed contrary to the placement preferences of subsection (1) or (2) of this section without good cause. A motion under this subsection may be made orally on the record or in writing. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §23; 2021 c.398 §16]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.656 Tribal customary adoption; rules; forms. (1) As used in this section, “tribal customary adoption” means the adoption of an Indian child, by and through the tribal custom, traditions or law of the child’s tribe, and which may be effected without the termination of parental rights.

      (2) If the juvenile court determines that tribal customary adoption is in the best interests, as described in ORS 419B.612, of a ward who is an Indian child and the child’s tribe consents to the tribal customary adoption:

      (a) The Department of Human Services shall provide the Indian child’s tribe and proposed tribal customary adoptive parents with a written report on the Indian child, including, to the extent not otherwise prohibited by state or federal law, the medical background, if known, of the child’s parents, and the child’s educational information, developmental history and medical background, including all known diagnostic information, current medical reports and any psychological evaluations.

      (b) The court shall accept a tribal customary adoptive home study conducted by the Indian child’s tribe if the home study:

      (A) Includes federal criminal background checks, including reports of child abuse, that meet the standards applicable under the laws of this state for all other proposed adoptive placements;

      (B) Uses the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian child’s tribe as the standards for evaluation of the proposed adoptive placement;

      (C) Includes an evaluation of the background, safety and health information of the proposed adoptive placement, including the biological, psychological and social factors of the proposed adoptive placement and assessment of the commitment, capability and suitability of the proposed adoptive placement to meet the Indian child’s needs; and

      (D) Except where the proposed adoptive placement is the Indian child’s current foster care placement, is completed prior to the placement of the Indian child in the proposed adoptive placement.

      (c)(A) Notwithstanding subsection (3) of this section, the court may not accept the tribe’s order or judgment of tribal customary adoption if any adult living in the proposed adoptive placement has a felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or a crime involving violence.

      (B) As used in this paragraph, “crime involving violence” has the meaning described by the Department of Human Services by rule, which must include rape, sexual assault or homicide, but may not include other physical assault or battery.

      (3)(a) The juvenile court shall accept an order or judgment for tribal customary adoption that is filed by the Indian child’s tribe if:

      (A) The court determines that tribal customary adoption is an appropriate permanent placement option for the Indian child;

      (B) The court finds that the tribal customary adoption is in the Indian child’s best interests, as described in ORS 419B.612; and

      (C) The order or judgment:

      (i) Includes a description of the modification of the legal relationship of the Indian child’s parents or Indian custodian and the child, including contact, if any, between the child and the parents or Indian custodian, responsibilities of the parents or Indian custodian and the rights of inheritance of the parents and child;

      (ii) Includes a description of the Indian child’s legal relationship with the tribe; and

      (iii) Does not include any child support obligation from the Indian child’s parents or Indian custodian.

      (b) The court shall afford full faith and credit to a tribal customary adoption order or judgment that is accepted under this subsection.

      (4)(a) Notwithstanding ORS 109.276, a tribal customary adoptive parent is not required to file a petition for adoption when the court accepts a tribal customary adoption order or judgment under subsection (3) of this section.

      (b) The tribal customary adoptive parent shall file an Adoption Summary and Segregated Information Statement with accompanying exhibits as provided under ORS 109.287.

      (c) Notwithstanding ORS 21.135, the clerk of the juvenile court may not charge or collect first appearance fees for a proceeding under this subsection.

      (d) After accepting a tribal customary adoption order or judgment under subsection (3) of this section, the juvenile court that accepted the order or judgment shall proceed as provided in ORS 109.350 and enter a judgment of adoption. In addition to the requirements under ORS 109.350, the judgment of adoption must include a statement that any parental rights or obligations not specified in the judgment are transferred to the tribal customary adoptive parents and a description of any parental rights or duties retained by the Indian child’s parents, the rights of inheritance of the child and the child’s parents and the child’s legal relationship with the child’s tribe.

      (e) A tribal customary adoption under this section does not require the consent of the Indian child or the child’s parents.

      (f) Upon the court’s entry of a judgment of adoption under this section, the court’s jurisdiction over the Indian child terminates as provided in ORS 419B.328 (2)(d).

      (g) Records of adoptions filed and established under this subsection shall be kept in accordance with, and are subject to, ORS 109.289.

      (5) Any parental rights or obligations not specifically retained by the Indian child’s parents in the juvenile court’s adoption judgment are conclusively presumed to transfer to the tribal customary adoptive parents.

      (6) This section shall remain operative only to the extent that compliance with the provisions of this section do not conflict with federal law as a condition of receiving funding under Title IV-E of the Social Security Act.

      (7)(a) The Department of Human Services shall adopt rules requiring that any report regarding a ward who is an Indian child that the department submits to the court, including home studies, placement reports or other reports required under ORS chapters 109, 418, 419A and 419B, must address tribal customary adoption as a permanency option.

      (b) The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court may make rules necessary for the court processes to implement the provisions of this section.

      (c) The State Court Administrator may prepare necessary forms for the implementation of this section. [2021 c.398 §65a]

 

      Note: Section 80, chapter 398, Oregon Laws 2021, provides:

      Sec. 80. Report to Legislative Assembly regarding tribal customary adoption. No later than March 15, 2024, the Department of Human Services shall submit a report to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to the judiciary describing the department’s implementation of tribal customary adoption as described in section 65a of this 2021 Act [419B.656], as an alternative permanency option for wards who are Indian children and the department’s recommendations for proposed legislation to improve the tribal customary adoption process. [2021 c.398 §80]

 

      419B.657 Reports to Legislative Assembly. No later than September 15 of every even-numbered year, the Department of Human Services and the Judicial Department shall report to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly relating to children regarding:

      (1) The number of Indian children involved in dependency proceedings during the prior two-year period.

      (2) The average duration Indian children were in protective custody.

      (3) The ratio of Indian children to non-Indian children in protective custody.

      (4) Which tribes the Indian children in protective custody were members of or of which they were eligible for membership.

      (5) The number of Indian children in foster care who are in each of the placement preference categories described in ORS 419B.654 and the number of those placements that have Indian parents in the home.

      (6) The number of Indian children placed in adoptive homes in each of the placement preference categories described in ORS 419B.654 and the number of those placements that have Indian parents in the home.

      (7) The number of available placements and common barriers to recruitment and retention of appropriate placements.

      (8) The number of times the court found that good cause existed to deviate from the statutory placement preferences under ORS 419B.654 when making a finding regarding the placement of a child in a dependency proceeding.

      (9) The number of cases that were transferred to tribal court under ORS 419B.633.

      (10) The number of times the court found good cause to decline to transfer jurisdiction of a dependency proceeding to tribal court upon request and the most common reasons the court found good cause to decline a transfer petition.

      (11) The efforts the Department of Human Services and the Judicial Department have taken to ensure compliance with the provisions of ORS 419B.600 to 419B.654 and the amendments to statutes by sections 24 to 60, chapter 14, Oregon Laws 2020 (first special session), in dependency proceedings.

      (12) The number of ICWA compliance reports, as defined in ORS 109.266, in which the department reported the petitioner’s documentation was insufficient for the court to make a finding regarding whether the petitioner complied with the inquiry or notice requirements under ORS 419B.636 (2) or 419B.639 (2).

      (13) The total number and the ratio of all ICWA compliance reports that indicated there was a reason to know that the child was an Indian child. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §61; 2021 c.398 §79]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.660 Conflict of laws. (1) If any provision of ORS 109.278, 109.302, 109.382, 109.383, 419B.600 to 419B.654 or 419B.656 or the amendments to statutes and session law by sections 1 to 5, 8 to 17, 20 to 30, 34 to 37, 40 to 64 and 65b to 77, chapter 398, Oregon Laws 2021, is found to provide a lower standard of protection to the rights of an Indian child or the Indian child’s parent, Indian custodian or tribe than the Indian Child Welfare Act:

      (a) The higher standard of protection in the Indian Child Welfare Act shall control; and

      (b) It shall not serve to render inoperative any remaining provisions of ORS 109.278, 109.302, 109.382, 109.383, 419B.600 to 419B.654 or 419B.656 or the amendments to statutes and session law by sections 1 to 5, 8 to 17, 20 to 30, 34 to 37, 40 to 64 and 65b to 77, chapter 398, Oregon Laws 2021, that may be held to provide a higher standard of protection than the Indian Child Welfare Act.

      (2) As used in this section, “Indian Child Welfare Act” means the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. 1901 et seq.) and related regulations. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §64; 2021 c.398 §78]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.663 Full faith and credit. The juvenile court shall give full faith and credit to the public acts, records and judicial proceedings of an Indian tribe applicable to an Indian child custody proceeding. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §63]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

      419B.665 Rules. The Department of Human Services and the Judicial Department may adopt rules to implement ORS 419B.600 to 419B.654. [2020 s.s.1 c.14 §65]

 

      Note: See note under 419B.600.

 

JUVENILE COURT DEPENDENCY PROCEDURE

 

      419B.800 Applicability of ORS 419B.800 to 419B.929. (1) ORS 419B.800 to 419B.929 govern procedure and practice in all juvenile court proceedings under this chapter. The Oregon Rules of Civil Procedure do not apply in these proceedings.

      (2) ORS 419B.800 to 419B.929 apply to all proceedings under this chapter pending on or filed on or after January 1, 2002, except when, in the opinion of the court, application in a case pending on January 1, 2002, would not be feasible or would work an injustice.

      (3) ORS 419B.800 to 419B.929 do not preclude a court in which they apply from regulating pleading, practice and procedure in any manner not inconsistent with ORS 419B.800 to 419B.929. [2001 c.622 §2]

 

      419B.803 Jurisdiction. (1) A juvenile court having subject matter jurisdiction has jurisdiction over:

      (a) A party, who has been served in the matter as provided in ORS 419B.812 to 419B.839 to the extent that prosecution of the action is not inconsistent with the Constitution of this state and the Constitution of the United States;

      (b) A child under 12 years of age who is the subject of a petition filed pursuant to ORS 419B.100; and

      (c) Any other party specified in ORS 419B.875 (1).

      (2) Juvenile court jurisdiction is subject to ORS 109.701 to 109.834. [2001 c.622 §3]

 

      419B.806 Consolidation; when required; procedures. (1) As used in this section, “consolidated” means that actions are heard before one judge of the circuit court to determine issues regarding a child or ward.

      (2) In any action filed in the juvenile court in which the legal or physical custody of a child or ward is at issue and there is also a child custody, parenting time, visitation, restraining order, filiation or Family Abuse Prevention Act action involving the child or ward in a domestic relations, filiation or guardianship proceeding, the matters shall be consolidated. Actions must be consolidated under this subsection regardless of whether the actions to be consolidated were filed or initiated before or after the filing of the petition under ORS 419B.100.

      (3) Consolidation does not merge the procedural or substantive law of the individual actions. Parties to the individual consolidated actions do not have standing, solely by virtue of the consolidation, in every action subject to the order of consolidation. Parties must comply with provisions for intervention or participation in a particular action under the provisions of law applicable to that action.

      (4) Upon entry of an order of consolidation, all pending issues pertaining to the actions subject to the order shall be heard together in juvenile court. The court shall hear the juvenile matters first unless the court finds that it is in the best interest of the child or ward to proceed otherwise.

      (5) A judge shall make and modify orders and findings in actions subject to the order of consolidation upon the filing of proper motions and notice as provided by law applicable to the actions. Any findings, orders or modifications must be consistent with the juvenile court orders, and persons who were parties to the juvenile court action may not relitigate issues in consolidated actions.

      (6) The judge shall set out separately from orders entered under this chapter or ORS chapter 419C any orders or judgments made in other actions subject to the consolidation order. The trial court administrator shall file the orders and judgments in the appropriate actions subject to the consolidation order. An order or judgment in an individual juvenile court action is final if it finally disposes of the rights and duties of the parties to that action, without reference to whether the order or judgment disposes of the rights and duties of the parties to another action with which the action has been consolidated.

      (7)(a) When the actions described in subsection (2) of this section exist in two or more circuit courts, the judges assigned to the actions shall confer to determine the appropriate court in which to consolidate and hear the actions. The judges shall confer not later than 10 judicial days after a court has received notice of the existence of an action in another circuit court.

      (b) If the judges agree on the circuit court in which the actions should be consolidated, the judges shall take such action as is necessary to consolidate the actions in the circuit court.

      (c) If the judges do not agree on the circuit court in which the actions should be consolidated, the actions must be consolidated in the court in which the juvenile action is filed or, if more than one juvenile action is pending, in the court in which the first juvenile action was filed.

      (8) Nothing in this section requires the consolidation of any administrative proceeding under ORS 25.501 to 25.556 or ORS chapter 25 with a juvenile court or other action. [Formerly 419B.260; 2003 c.396 §92; 2007 c.547 §12; 2019 c.13 §47]

 

      419B.809 Petition; contents; form; dismissal. (1) Any person may file a petition in the juvenile court alleging that a child named therein is within the jurisdiction of the court under ORS 419B.100.

      (2) The petition and all subsequent court documents in the proceeding must be entitled “In the matter of_____, a child.” The petition must be in writing, signed by the petitioner or the petitioner’s attorney and verified.

      (3) When the petition is filed by a peace officer, district attorney, attorney general, juvenile department counselor, employee of the Department of Human Services or employee of the Oregon Youth Authority, the petition may be verified upon the information and belief of the petitioner. In all other cases, the petition must be based on the personal knowledge of the petitioner.

      (4) The petition alleging jurisdiction must set forth in ordinary and concise language such of the following facts as are known and indicate any that are not known. The petition shall:

      (a) Contain the name, age and residence of the child.

      (b) Contain the facts that bring the child within the jurisdiction of the court, including sufficient information to put the parties on notice of the issues in the proceeding.

      (c) Contain the name and residence of the child’s parent and, in cases under ORS 419B.100, the names of persons with whom, and the places where, the child has resided for the previous five years.

      (d) Indicate whether there is a proceeding involving the custody of the child pending in any court.

      (e) Indicate whether a person other than a parent has or claims to have physical custody of the child and, if so, the name and residence of the person having physical custody of the child.

      (f) Indicate whether the petitioner has participated in any capacity in any other proceeding concerning the custody of or parenting time or visitation with the child and, if so, the court, case number and date of any child custody determination.

      (g) Indicate whether the petitioner knows of any proceeding that could affect the current proceeding and, if so, the court, case number and date of the proceeding.

      (5) At any time after a petition is filed, the court may make an order providing for temporary custody of the child.

      (6) The court, on motion of an interested party or on its own motion, may at any time direct that the petition be amended. If the amendment results in a substantial departure from the facts originally alleged, the court shall grant such continuance as the interests of justice may require.

      (7) Prior to an adjudicatory hearing on the petition, the court may dismiss the petition provided that every party has had an opportunity to investigate and present a case supporting the petition or has waived the opportunity to investigate and the right to present a case. At or after an adjudicatory hearing, the court may dismiss the petition at any other stage of the proceedings.

      (8) The petition for jurisdiction must be in substantially the following form.

______________________________________________________________________________

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT

OF THE STATE OF OREGON

FOR ____________ COUNTY

 

In the Matter of           )

                                    )           No.

                                    )           Petition No.

                                    )

      A Child.                )           PETITION

 

 

 

TO THE ABOVE-ENTITLED COURT:

 

Petitioner, whose name appears below, respectfully represents to the Court as follows:

 

      1.   The name, age and residence of the above-named child are as follows: (name); (age);

(DOB); (resides at), _______________, Oregon. (Alternative: The name and age of the above-named

child are as follows:________. The child’s residence is provided in a sealed document because

providing that information would jeopardize the health, safety or liberty of the child or of

a party to the case. ORS 109.767.)

 

      2.   The child is within the jurisdiction of the Court by reason of the following facts:

 

      A.  _______________

      B.  _______________

 

      3.   Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act information:

 

      A.  Child(ren)’s present address: _______________(Alternative: The child’s present address is

provided in a sealed document because providing that information would jeopardize the

health, safety or liberty of the child or of a party to the case. ORS 109.767.)

      B.  Places the child(ren) has lived during the previous five years:

      _______________

      _______________

 

      C.  Names and present addresses of persons with whom child(ren) has lived during that

period:

      _______________

      _______________

 

      D.  The petitioner has/has not participated as a party or witness or in any other

capacity in any other proceeding concerning the custody of or parenting time or visitation

with the child. Court, case number and date of any child custody determination:

      _______________

 

      E.   Petitioner knows/does not know of any proceeding that could affect the current

proceeding. Court, case number and date of the proceeding:

      _______________

 

      F.   Petitioner knows/does not know of any person who has physical custody of the

child(ren) or claims rights of legal custody, physical custody, parenting time or visitation

with the child(ren). Names and addresses of such persons:

      _______________

 

      4.   The child resides in ___________ County.

 

      5.   The name and present address of each parent is as follows:

      _______________

 

      6.   The petition is not filed pursuant to the direction of this Court.

 

      WHEREFORE, petitioner prays this Court to have an investigation made of the circumstances concerning the above-named child and to make such order or orders as are appropriate in the circumstances.

 

      DATED:____________, 2___.

__________________

Petitioner

 

STATE OF OREGON      )

                                          )     ss.

County of______              )

 

      I, ____________, being first duly sworn, on oath or upon affirmation, depose and say that I am the petitioner in the above-entitled proceeding, that I have read the foregoing petition, know the contents thereof, and the same is true as I am informed and believe.

__________________

Petitioner

 

      SIGNED AND SWORN to before me on____________, 2___.

_____________________

SEAL (Alternate Verification)

 

STATE OF OREGON      )

                                          )     ss.

County of______              )

 

      I, ____________, being first duly sworn, on oath or upon affirmation, depose and say that I am the petitioner in the above-entitled proceeding, that I have read the foregoing petition, know the contents thereof, and the same is true based on my personal knowledge of this matter.

__________________

Petitioner

 

      SIGNED AND SWORN to before me on____________, 2___.

_____________________

SEAL

______________________________________________________________________________ [2001 c.622 §4]

 

      419B.812 Issuance of summons; time for hearing on petition. (1) As used in this section and ORS 419B.815, 419B.819 and 419B.824, a “true copy” of a summons or petition means an exact and complete copy of the original summons or petition with a certificate upon the copy signed by an attorney of record or a party that indicates that the copy is exact and complete.

      (2) A summons under ORS 419B.815 or 419B.819 must be titled “In the matter of_____, a child” and must contain the name of the person to be served and the address at which the summons and petition may be served.

      (3) The summons must be issued no later than 30 days after the filing of a petition alleging jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100, a petition to establish a permanent guardianship under ORS 419B.365 or a petition seeking termination of parental rights under ORS 419B.500, 419B.502, 419B.504, 419B.506 or 419B.508.

      (4) The petitioner, the petitioner’s attorney, the juvenile department, the district attorney, the Attorney General or the Department of Human Services may issue a summons.

      (5) The summons must be signed by the:

      (a) Petitioner;

      (b) Petitioner’s attorney;

      (c) Juvenile department;

      (d) District attorney;

      (e) Attorney General; or

      (f) Department of Human Services.

      (6) The summons must be served with a true copy of the petition.

      (7) The summons and petition may be served by any competent person 18 years of age or older who is a resident of the state where service is made or of this state.

      (8) The summons and petition may be transmitted by telegraph, facsimile or electronic mail as provided in ORS 419B.848 (3).

      (9) The court shall fix the date and time for the hearing on a petition at a reasonable time after service or, if service is by publication, final publication of the summons. The time may not be less than 24 hours after service or, if service is by publication, final publication in a proceeding to establish jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 and may not be less than 10 days after service or, if service is by publication, final publication in a proceeding to establish permanent guardianship or terminate parental rights. [2001 c.622 §5; 2003 c.205 §1; 2017 c.737 §10]

 

      419B.815 Summons for proceeding to establish jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100; contents; failure to appear. (1) A court may make an order establishing jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 only after service of summons and a true copy of the petition as provided in ORS 419B.812, 419B.823, 419B.824, 419B.827, 419B.830, 419B.833 and 419B.839.

      (2) A summons under this section must require one of the following:

      (a) That the person appear personally before the court at the time and place specified in the summons for a hearing on the allegations of the petition;

      (b) That the person appear personally before the court at the time and place specified in the summons to admit or deny the allegations of the petition; or

      (c) That the person file a written answer to the petition within 30 days from the date on which the person is served with the summons.

      (3) If the court does not direct the type of response to be required by the summons under subsection (2) of this section, the summons shall require the person being summoned to respond in the manner authorized by subsection (2)(c) of this section.

      (4) A summons under this section must contain:

      (a) A statement that the petition seeks to establish jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 and that, if the person fails to appear at the time and place specified in the summons or an order under ORS 419B.816 or, if the summons requires the filing of a written answer, fails to file the answer within the time provided, the court may establish jurisdiction without further notice either on the date specified in the summons or order or on a future date, and may take any other action that is authorized by law including, but not limited to, making the child a ward of the court and removing the child from the legal and physical custody of the parent or other person having legal or physical custody of the child.

      (b) A notice that the person has the right to be represented by an attorney. The notice must be in substantially the following form:

______________________________________________________________________________

You have a right to be represented by an attorney. If you wish to be represented by an attorney, please retain one as soon as possible to represent you in this proceeding. If you are the child or the parent or legal guardian of the child and you cannot afford to hire an attorney and you meet the state’s financial guidelines, you are entitled to have an attorney appointed for you at state expense. To request appointment of an attorney to represent you at state expense, you must contact the juvenile court immediately. Phone ________ for further information.

______________________________________________________________________________

      (c) A statement that, if the person is represented by an attorney, the person has the responsibility to maintain contact with the person’s attorney and to keep the attorney advised of the person’s whereabouts.

      (d) A statement that, if the person is represented by an attorney, the person must appear personally at any hearing where the person is required to appear, unless the person is the child at issue in the proceeding who must be served with summons in accordance with ORS 419B.839 (1)(f). The statement must explain that to “appear personally” does not include appearance through the person’s attorney.

      (e) A statement that, if the court has granted the person an exception in advance under ORS 419B.918, the person may appear in any manner permitted by the court under ORS 419B.918.

      (f) A statement that no later than 30 days after the petition is filed each party about whom allegations have been made must admit or deny the allegations and that, unless the court specifies otherwise, the admission or denial may be made orally at the hearing or filed with the court in writing.

      (g) A statement that if the petition alleges that the child has been physically or sexually abused, the court, at the hearing, may enter an order restraining the alleged perpetrator of the abuse from having contact with the child or attempting to contact the child and requiring the alleged perpetrator to move from the household in which the child resides.

      (h) A statement that the parent or other person legally obligated to support the child may be required to pay at some future date for all or a portion of the support of the child, including the cost of out-of-home placement, depending upon the ability of the parent or other person to pay support.

      (5) If the summons requires the person to appear before the court to admit or deny the allegations of the petition or requires the person to file a written answer to the petition, the summons must advise the person that, if the person contests the petition, the court:

      (a) Will schedule a hearing on the allegations of the petition and order the person to appear personally; and

      (b) May schedule other hearings related to the petition and order the person to appear personally.

      (6) At a hearing, when the person is required to appear personally, or in the person’s written answer to the petition, the person shall inform the court and the petitioner of the person’s current residence address, mailing address and telephone number.

      (7) If a person fails to appear for any hearing related to the petition, or fails to file a written answer, as directed by summons or court order under this section or ORS 419B.816, the court may establish jurisdiction without further notice, either on the date specified in the summons or order or on a future date, and may take any other action that is authorized by law including, but not limited to, making the child a ward of the court and removing the child from the legal and physical custody of the parent or other person having legal or physical custody of the child.

      (8) If the summons requires the person to appear personally before the court, or if a court orders the person to appear personally at a hearing in the manner provided in ORS 419B.816, the person may not appear through the person’s attorney, unless the person is the child at issue in the proceeding who has been served with summons in accordance with ORS 419B.839 (1)(f). [2001 c.622 §6; 2001 c.962 §54; 2003 c.205 §§10,11; 2007 c.497 §3]

 

      419B.816 Notice to person contesting petition to establish jurisdiction. If the person appears in the manner provided in ORS 419B.815 (2)(b) or (c) and the person contests the petition, the court, by written order provided to the person in person or mailed to the person at the address provided by the person, or by oral order made on the record, shall:

      (1) Inform the person of the time, place and purpose of the next hearing or hearings related to the petition;

      (2) Require the person to appear personally at the next hearing or hearings related to the petition;

      (3) Inform the person that, if the person is represented by an attorney, the person’s attorney may not attend the hearing in place of the person, unless the person is the child at issue in the proceeding who has been served with summons in accordance with ORS 419B.839 (1)(f);

      (4) Inform the person that, if the court has granted the person an exception in advance under ORS 419B.918, the person may appear in any manner permitted by the court under ORS 419B.918; and

      (5) Inform the person that, if the person fails to appear as ordered for any hearing related to the petition, the court may establish jurisdiction without further notice, either on the date specified in the summons or order or on a future date, and may take any other action that is authorized by law including, but not limited to, making the child a ward of the court and removing the child from the legal and physical custody of the parent or other person having legal or physical custody of the child. [2003 c.205 §10b; 2007 c.497 §4]

 

      419B.818 Form of summons under ORS 419B.815. The summons for appearance in a proceeding to establish jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 must be in substantially the following form:

______________________________________________________________________________

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT

OF THE STATE OF OREGON

FOR ____________ COUNTY

 

In the Matter of            )

                                      )         No.

                                      )         Petition No.

                                      )

      A Child.                  )         SUMMONS

 

TO: Name and address

 

IN THE NAME OF THE STATE OF OREGON:

You are directed:

 

_____To appear in person before this Court at _______________ (address), Courtroom #_____, ____________, Oregon, on: the _____ day of_____, 2___, at ___ o’clock__.m. for a hearing on the allegations of the petition and at any subsequent court-ordered hearing. You must appear personally in the courtroom on the date and at the time listed above. An attorney may not attend the hearing in your place. However, if you are the child at issue in this proceeding and you have an attorney, you may rely upon your attorney to appear at the hearing on your behalf.

 

_____To appear in person before this Court at _______________ (address), Courtroom #_____, ____________, Oregon, on the _____ day of_____, 2___, at ___ o’clock__.m. to admit or deny the allegations of the petition and at any subsequent court-ordered hearing. You must appear personally in the courtroom on the date and at the time listed above. An attorney may not attend the hearing in your place. However, if you are the child at issue in this proceeding and you have an attorney, you may rely upon your attorney to appear at the hearing on your behalf.

 

_____To file a written answer to the petition no later than 30 days after the date you were served with this summons and to appear at any court-ordered hearing. An attorney may not attend any court-ordered hearing in your place. However, if you are the child at issue in this proceeding and you have an attorney, you may rely upon your attorney to file and to appear at the hearing on your behalf.

 

NOTICE:

READ THESE PAPERS CAREFULLY!!

 

A petition has been filed to establish jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100. A copy of the petition is attached.

 

No later than 30 days from the date the petition is filed, each person about whom allegations have been made in the petition must admit or deny the allegations. Unless directed otherwise above, the admission or denial may be made orally at the hearing or filed with the court in writing.

 

If you do not appear or file a written answer as directed above, or do not appear at any subsequent court-ordered hearing, the Court may proceed without further notice and take jurisdiction of the child(ren) either on the date specified in this summons or on a future date, and make such orders and take such action as authorized by law including, but not limited to, establishing wardship over the child, ordering the removal of the child(ren) from the legal and physical custody of the parent(s) or guardian(s) and, if the petition alleges that the child(ren) has (have) been physically or sexually abused, restraining you from having contact with, or attempting to contact, the child(ren) and requiring you to move from the household in which the child(ren) resides (reside).

 

RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS

 

You have a right to be represented by an attorney. If you wish to be represented by an attorney, please retain one as soon as possible to represent you in this proceeding. If you are the child or the parent or legal guardian of the child and you cannot afford to hire an attorney and you meet the state’s financial guidelines, you are entitled to have an attorney appointed for you at state expense. To request appointment of an attorney to represent you at state expense, you must contact the juvenile court immediately. Phone _____ for further information. If you are represented by an attorney, it is your responsibility to maintain contact with your attorney and to keep your attorney advised of your whereabouts.

 

If you are a parent or other person legally obligated to support the child(ren), you have the obligation to support the child(ren). You may be required to pay for compensation and reasonable expenses for the child(ren)’s attorney. You may be required to pay support for the child(ren) while the child(ren) is (are) in state financed or state supported custody. You may be required to provide health insurance coverage for the child(ren) while the child(ren) is (are) in state financed or state supported custody. You may be required to pay other costs that arise from the child(ren) being in the jurisdiction of the Court. If you are ordered to pay for the child(ren)’s support or there is an existing order of support from a divorce or other proceeding, that support order may be assigned to the state to apply to the costs of the child(ren)’s care.

 

If this summons requires you to appear before the court to admit or deny the allegations of the petition or requires you to file a written answer to the petition and you contest the petition, the court will schedule a hearing on the allegations of the petition and order you to appear personally and may schedule other hearings related to the petition and order you to appear personally. If you are ordered to appear, you must appear personally in the courtroom, unless the court has granted you an exception in advance under ORS 419B.918 to appear by other means including, but not limited to, telephonic or other electronic means. If you are the child at issue in this proceeding and you have an attorney, your attorney may appear in your place.

 

If your rights are adversely affected by the court’s judgment or decision regarding jurisdiction or disposition, you have the right to appeal under ORS 419A.200. If you decide to appeal a judgment or decision of the court, you must file a notice of appeal no later than 30 days after the entry of the court’s judgment or decision as provided in ORS 419A.200. You have a right to be represented by an attorney in an appeal under ORS 419A.200. If you are the child or the parent or legal guardian of the child and you cannot afford to hire an attorney and you meet the state’s financial guidelines, you are entitled to have an attorney appointed for you at state expense. To request appointment of an attorney to represent you at state expense in an appeal under ORS 419A.200, you must contact the juvenile court immediately.

Phone _____ for further information.

 

By: (Name and Title)

Date Issued: ____________

______________________________________________________________________________ [2001 c.622 §7; 2003 c.73 §68; 2003 c.205 §8; 2007 c.497 §5; 2011 c.116 §1]

 

      419B.819 Summons for proceeding to establish permanent guardianship or terminate parental rights; contents; failure to appear. (1) A court may make an order establishing permanent guardianship under ORS 419B.365 or terminating parental rights under ORS 419B.500, 419B.502, 419B.504, 419B.506 or 419B.508 only after service of summons and a true copy of the petition on the parent, as provided in ORS 419B.812, 419B.823, 419B.824, 419B.827, 419B.830 and 419B.833. A putative father who satisfies the criteria set out in ORS 419B.839 (1)(d) or 419B.875 (1)(a)(C) also must be served with summons and a true copy of the petition, unless a court of competent jurisdiction has found him not to be the child or ward’s legal or biological father or he has filed a petition for filiation that was dismissed and no appeal of the judgment or order is pending.

      (2) A summons under this section must require one of the following:

      (a) That the parent appear personally before the court at the time and place specified in the summons for a hearing on the allegations of the petition;

      (b) That the parent appear personally before the court at the time and place specified in the summons to admit or deny the allegations of the petition; or

      (c) That the parent file a written answer to the petition within 30 days from the date on which the parent is served with the summons.

      (3) If the court does not direct the type of response to be required by the summons under subsection (2) of this section, the summons shall require the parent to respond in the manner authorized by subsection (2)(c) of this section.

      (4) A summons under this section must contain:

      (a) A statement that the rights of the parent are proposed to be terminated or, if the petition seeks to establish a permanent guardianship, that a permanent guardianship is proposed to be established.

      (b) A statement that, if the parent fails to appear at the time and place specified in the summons or in an order under ORS 419B.820 or, if the summons requires the filing of a written answer, fails to file the answer within the time provided, the court may, without further notice and in the parent’s absence, terminate the parent’s rights or grant the guardianship petition, either on the date specified in the summons or order or on a future date, and may take any other action that is authorized by law.

      (c) A notice that the parent has the right to be represented by an attorney. The notice must be in substantially the following form:

______________________________________________________________________________

 

You have a right to be represented by an attorney. If you wish to be represented by an attorney, please retain one as soon as possible to represent you in this proceeding. If you cannot afford to hire an attorney and you meet the state’s financial guidelines, you are entitled to have an attorney appointed for you at state expense. To request appointment of an attorney to represent you at state expense, you must contact the juvenile court immediately. Phone ________ for further information.

______________________________________________________________________________

      (d) A statement that, if the parent is represented by an attorney, the parent has the responsibility to maintain contact with the parent’s attorney and to keep the attorney advised of the parent’s whereabouts.

      (e) A statement that, if the parent is represented by an attorney, the parent must appear personally at any hearing where the parent is required to appear. The statement must explain that “appear personally” does not include appearance through the parent’s attorney.

      (f) A statement that, if the court has granted the parent an exception in advance under ORS 419B.918, the parent may appear in any manner permitted by the court under ORS 419B.918.

      (5) If the summons requires the parent to appear before the court to admit or deny the allegations of the petition or requires the parent to file a written answer to the petition, the summons must advise the parent that, if the parent contests the petition, the court:

      (a) Will schedule a hearing on the allegations of the petition and order the parent to appear personally; and

      (b) May schedule other hearings related to the petition and order the parent to appear personally.

      (6) At a hearing, when the parent is required to appear personally, or in the parent’s written answer to the petition, the parent shall inform the court and the petitioner of the parent’s current residence address, mailing address and telephone number.

      (7) If a parent fails to appear for any hearing related to the petition, or fails to file a written answer, as directed by summons or court order under this section or ORS 419B.820, the court, without further notice and in the parent’s absence, may:

      (a) Terminate the parent’s rights or, if the petition seeks to establish a permanent guardianship, grant the guardianship petition either on the date specified in the summons or order or on a future date; and

      (b) Take any other action that is authorized by law.

      (8) If the summons requires the parent to appear personally before the court, or if a court orders the parent to appear personally at a hearing in the manner provided in ORS 419B.820, the parent may not appear through the parent’s attorney.

      (9) If a guardian ad litem has been appointed for a parent under ORS 419B.231, a copy of the summons served on the parent under this section must be provided to the guardian ad litem. [2003 c.205 §3; 2005 c.160 §2; 2005 c.450 §5; 2007 c.454 §13; 2007 c.497 §6]

 

      419B.820 Notice to parent contesting petition to establish permanent guardianship or terminate parental rights. If the parent appears in the manner provided in ORS 419B.819 (2)(b) or (c) and the parent contests the petition, the court, by written order provided to the parent in person or mailed to the parent at the address provided by the parent or by oral order made on the record, shall:

      (1) Inform the parent of the time, place and purpose of the next hearing or hearings related to the petition;

      (2) Require the parent to appear personally at the next hearing or hearings related to the petition;

      (3) Inform the parent that, if the parent is represented by an attorney, the parent’s attorney may not attend the hearing in place of the parent;

      (4) Inform the parent that, if the court has granted the parent an exception in advance under ORS 419B.918, the parent may appear in any manner permitted by the court under ORS 419B.918; and

      (5) Inform the parent that, if the parent fails to appear as ordered for any hearing related to the petition, the court, without further notice and in the parent’s absence, may:

      (a) Terminate the parent’s rights or, if the petition seeks to establish a permanent guardianship, grant the guardianship petition either on the date specified in the order or on a future date; and

      (b) Take any other action that is authorized by law. [2003 c.205 §5; 2007 c.497 §7]

 

      Note: 419B.820 was added to and made a part of ORS chapter 419B by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.821 [2001 c.622 §8; 2003 c.230 §1; renumbered 419B.823 in 2003]

 

      419B.822 Form of summons under ORS 419B.819. The summons for appearance in a proceeding to establish permanent guardianship under ORS 419B.365 or to terminate parental rights under ORS 419B.500, 419B.502, 419B.504, 419B.506 or 419B.508 must be in substantially the following form:

______________________________________________________________________________

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT

OF THE STATE OF OREGON

FOR ____________ COUNTY

 

In the Matter of        )

                                 )  No.

                                 )  Petition No.

                                 )

      A Child.             )  SUMMONS

 

TO: Name and address

 

IN THE NAME OF THE STATE OF OREGON:

You are directed:

 

___To appear in person before this Court at _______________ (address), Courtroom #_____, _______________, Oregon, on: the _____ day of_____, 2___, at ___ o’clock__.m. for a hearing on the allegations of the petition and at any subsequent court-ordered hearing. You must appear personally in the courtroom on the date and at the time listed above. An attorney may not attend the hearing in your place.

 

___To appear in person before this Court at _______________ (address), Courtroom #_____, _______________, Oregon, on: the _____ day of_____, 2___, at ___ o’clock__.m. to admit or deny the allegations of the petition and at any subsequent court-ordered hearing. You must appear personally in the courtroom on the date and at the time listed above. An attorney may not attend the hearing in your place.

 

___To file a written answer to the petition no later than 30 days after the date you were served with this summons and to appear at any court-ordered hearing. An attorney may not attend any court-ordered hearing in your place.

 

NOTICE:

READ THESE PAPERS CAREFULLY!!

 

A petition has been filed to:

 

___Establish a permanent guardianship under ORS 419B.365.

 

___Terminate your parental rights under ORS 419B.500, 419B.502, 419B.504, 419B.506 or 419B.508.

 

A copy of the petition is attached.

 

If you do not appear or file a written answer as directed above, or do not appear at any subsequent court-ordered hearing, the Court may proceed without further notice and (establish a permanent guardianship) (terminate your parental rights) either on the date specified in this summons or on a future date, and make such orders and take such action as authorized by law.

 

RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS

 

You have a right to be represented by an attorney. If you wish to be represented by an attorney, please retain one as soon as possible to represent you in this proceeding. If you cannot afford to hire an attorney and you meet the state’s financial guidelines, you are entitled to have an attorney appointed for you at state expense. To request appointment of an attorney to represent you at state expense, you must contact the juvenile court immediately. Phone _____ for further information. If you are represented by an attorney, it is your responsibility to maintain contact with your attorney and to keep your attorney advised of your whereabouts.

 

If this summons requires you to appear before the court to admit or deny the allegations of the petition or requires you to file a written answer to the petition and you contest the petition, the court will schedule a hearing on the allegations of the petition and order you to appear personally and may schedule other hearings related to the petition and order you to appear personally. If you are ordered to appear, you must appear personally in the courtroom, unless the court has granted you an exception in advance under ORS 419B.918 to appear by other means including, but not limited to, telephonic or other electronic means.

 

By: (Name and Title)

Date Issued: ____________

______________________________________________________________________________ [2003 c.205 §7; 2007 c.497 §8]

 

      419B.823 Service of summons generally. The summons must be served, either inside or outside of the state, in a manner reasonably calculated under all the circumstances to apprise the person served of the existence and pendency of the juvenile proceeding and to afford the person a reasonable opportunity to appear. Service of summons may be made, subject to the restrictions and requirements of ORS 419B.824, by the following methods:

      (1) Personal service of the summons and petition upon the person to be served;

      (2) Substituted service by leaving a copy of the summons and petition at a person’s dwelling house or usual place of abode;

      (3) Office service by leaving the summons and petition with a person who is apparently in charge of an office;

      (4) Service by mail; or

      (5) Alternative service as ordered by the court under ORS 419B.824 (5). [Formerly 419B.821]

 

      419B.824 Methods of serving summons. (1) Personal service may be made by delivery of a true copy of the summons and a true copy of the petition to the person to be served.

      (2) Substituted service may be made by delivering a true copy of the summons and a true copy of the petition at the dwelling house or usual place of abode of the person to be served to any person 14 years of age or older residing in the dwelling house or usual place of abode. When substituted service is used, the person effecting service shall cause to be mailed a true copy of the summons and a true copy of the petition and a statement of the date, time, and place at which substituted service was made. The summons, petition and statement must be mailed by first class mail to the dwelling house or usual place of abode of the person who has been served as soon as is practicable after the substituted service was made. When the computation of a period of time is based on service of summons, substituted service is complete upon such mailing.

      (3) If the person to be served maintains an office for conducting business, office service may be made by leaving a true copy of the summons and a true copy of the petition at the office during normal working hours with the person who is apparently in charge. When office service is used, the person effecting service shall cause to be mailed a true copy of the summons and a true copy of the petition and a statement of the date, time, and place at which office service was made. The summons, petition and statement must be mailed by first class mail to the person who has been served at the person’s dwelling house or usual place of abode, place of business or such other place under the circumstances that is most reasonably calculated to apprise the person of the existence and pendency of the juvenile proceeding. The summons, petition and statement must be mailed as soon as is practicable after the office service was made. When the computation of a period of time is based on service of summons, office service is complete upon such mailing.

      (4) Service by mail must be made by mailing a true copy of the summons and a true copy of the petition to the person to be served by first class mail and another true copy of the petition and another true copy of the summons by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, or by express mail. Service by mail is not complete unless the person to be served signs a receipt for the mail. Service by mail is complete on the date that the person to be served signs a receipt for the mail.

      (5)(a) If any parent or guardian required to be summoned as provided in ORS 419B.812 to 419B.839 cannot be served as provided in ORS 419B.823 (1) to (4), the court may order alternative service of summons on the parent or guardian in any of the following methods or combination of methods that under the circumstances is most reasonably calculated to notify the parent or guardian of the existence and pendency of the action:

      (A) By sending the parent or guardian a copy of the summons by first class mail and an additional copy by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, to one or more addresses;

      (B) By posting at specified locations; or

      (C) By publication of summons pursuant to subsection (6) of this section.

      (b) If alternative service is ordered the court shall specify a time for response.

      (6)(a) On written motion and affidavit that service cannot be made by any method otherwise specified in this section, the court may order service by publication.

      (b) In addition to the contents of a summons as described in ORS 419B.815 or 419B.819, a published summons must also contain the date of first publication of the summons. If the names of one or both parents or the guardian are unknown, they may be summoned as “The parent(s) or guardian of (naming or describing the child), found (stating the address or place where the child was found)”.

      (c) An order for publication must direct that publication be made in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the action is commenced or, if there is no such newspaper, in a newspaper to be designated as most likely to give notice to the person to be served. The summons must be published three times in successive calendar weeks. If the person effecting service knows of a specific location other than the county where the action is commenced where publication might reasonably result in actual notice to the person to be served, the person effecting service shall so state in the affidavit required by paragraph (a) of this subsection, and the court may order publication in a comparable manner at such location in addition to, or in lieu of, publication in the county where the action is commenced.

      (d) If the court orders service by publication and the person effecting service does not know and cannot upon diligent inquiry ascertain the current address of a person being served, a copy of the summons and the petition must be mailed by the methods specified in subsection (4) of this section to the person being served at that person’s last known address. If the person effecting service does not know, and cannot ascertain upon diligent inquiry, the current or last known address of the person being served, mailing of a copy of the summons and the petition is not required.

      (7) For purposes of this section, “first class mail” does not include certified or registered mail or any other form of mail that may delay actual delivery of the mail to the addressee. [2001 c.622 §9; 2003 c.205 §14; 2003 c.230 §2]

 

      419B.827 Responsibility for costs of service of summons and travel expenses of party summoned. The court may authorize payment of travel expenses of any party summoned. Except as provided in this section, responsibility for the payment of the cost of service of summons or other process on any party, and for payment of travel expenses so authorized, shall be borne by the party issuing the summons or requesting the court to issue the summons. When the Department of Human Services issues the summons or requests the court to issue the summons, responsibility for such payment shall be borne by the county. [Formerly 419B.280]

 

      419B.830 Return of summons. The summons must be promptly returned to the clerk with whom the petition is filed with proof of service or mailing or with proof that the person to be served cannot be found. The summons may be returned by first class mail. [2001 c.622 §10]

 

      419B.833 Proof of service of summons or mailing. (1) Except for service by publication, proof of service of summons or mailing must be made by:

      (a) The certificate of the server if the summons is not served by a sheriff or a sheriff’s deputy. The certificate must indicate the time, place and manner of service, that the server is a competent person of at least 18 years of age and is a resident of the state of service or of this state and that the server reasonably believes that the person served is the identical one named in the summons. If the person served was not personally served, the server shall state in the certificate when, where and with whom a copy of the summons and petition was left or describe in detail the manner and circumstances of service. If the summons and petition were mailed, the certificate may be made by the person completing the mailing or the attorney for any party and must state the circumstances of mailing and have the return receipt attached.

      (b) The sheriff’s or sheriff’s deputy’s certificate of service if the summons is served by a sheriff or a sheriff’s deputy. The certificate must indicate the time, place and manner of service and, if the person served was not personally served, when, where and with whom a copy of the summons and petition was left or describe in detail the manner and circumstances of service. If the summons and petition were mailed, the certificate must state the circumstances of mailing and have the return receipt attached.

      (2) Service by publication must be proved by an affidavit in substantially the following form:

______________________________________________________________________________

AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION

 

STATE OF OREGON        )

                                            )   ss.

County of______               )

 

I, ________, being first duly sworn, depose and say that I am the ________ (here set forth the title or job description of the person making the affidavit), of the________, a newspaper of general circulation published at ________ in the aforesaid county and state; that I know from my personal knowledge that the________, a printed copy of which is hereto annexed, was published in the entire issue of said newspaper three times in the following issues: (here set forth dates of issues in which the same was published).

 

Subscribed and sworn to before me this _____ day of____________, 2___.

__________________

Notary Public for Oregon

 

My commission expires:____________.

______________________________________________________________________________

      (3) The affidavit of service may be made and certified before a notary public or other official authorized to administer oaths by the United States, any state or territory of the United States or the District of Columbia. The notary public or official shall affix the notary’s or official’s official seal, if any, to the affidavit. The signature of the notary or other official, when attested by the affixing of the official seal of the person, is prima facie evidence of authority to make and certify the affidavit.

      (4) A certificate or affidavit containing proof of service may be made upon the summons or as a separate document attached to the summons.

      (5) In addition to the other ways specified in this section, proof of service may be made by a written acceptance of service by the person who was served.

      (6) If summons has been properly served, failure to make or file a proper proof of service does not affect the validity of the service. [2001 c.622 §11]

 

      419B.836 Effect of error in summons or service of summons. Failure to comply with provisions of ORS 419B.812, 419B.815, 419B.818, 419B.819, 419B.822 and 419B.839 relating to the form of summons, issuance of summons or who may serve summons does not affect the validity of service of summons or the existence of jurisdiction over the person if the court determines that the served person received actual notice of the substance and pendency of the action. The court may allow amendment to a summons or affidavit or certificate of service of summons. The court shall disregard any error in the content of summons that does not materially prejudice the substantive rights of the party to whom summons was issued. If service is made in any manner complying with ORS 419B.812 to 419B.839, the court shall also disregard any error in the service of summons that does not violate the due process rights of the party against whom summons was issued. [2001 c.622 §12; 2003 c.205 §15]

 

      419B.839 Required and discretionary summons. (1) Summons in proceedings to establish jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 must be served on:

      (a) The parents of the child without regard to who has legal or physical custody of the child;

      (b) The legal guardian of the child;

      (c) A putative father of the child who satisfies the criteria set out in ORS 419B.875 (1)(a)(C), except as provided in subsection (4) of this section;

      (d) A putative father of the child if notice of the initiation of filiation or parentage proceedings was on file with the Center for Health Statistics of the Oregon Health Authority prior to the initiation of the juvenile court proceedings, except as provided in subsection (4) of this section;

      (e) The person who has physical custody of the child, if the child is not in the physical custody of a parent; and

      (f) The child, if the child is 12 years of age or older.

      (2) If it appears to the court that the welfare of the child or of the public requires that the child immediately be taken into custody, the court may indorse an order on the summons directing the officer serving it to take the child into custody.

      (3) Summons may be issued requiring the appearance of any person whose presence the court deems necessary.

      (4) Summons under subsection (1) of this section is not required to be given to a putative father whom a court of competent jurisdiction has found not to be the child’s legal parent or who has filed a petition for filiation that was dismissed if no appeal from the judgment or order is pending.

      (5) If a guardian ad litem has been appointed for a parent under ORS 419B.231, a copy of a summons served on the parent under this section must be provided to the guardian ad litem. [2001 c.622 §13; 2003 c.205 §9; 2005 c.160 §3; 2005 c.450 §6; 2009 c.595 §365; 2017 c.651 §43]

 

      419B.842 When arrest warrant authorized. (1) No person required to appear as provided in ORS 419B.812 to 419B.839 shall without reasonable cause fail to appear or, where directed in the summons, to bring the child before the court.

      (2) If the summons cannot be served, if the person to whom the summons is directed fails to obey it or if it appears to the court that the summons will be ineffectual, the court may direct issuance of a warrant of arrest against the person summoned or against the child. [Formerly 419B.282]

 

      419B.845 Restraining order when child abuse alleged. (1)(a) When a petition has been filed alleging that the child has been physically or sexually abused, the court may enter an order restraining the alleged perpetrator of the abuse from having contact with the child or attempting to contact the child and requiring the alleged perpetrator to move from the household in which the child resides. The court may issue a restraining order only if the court finds that:

      (A) There is probable cause to believe the abuse occurred and that the person to be restrained committed the abuse; and

      (B) The order is in the best interest of the child.

      (b) Upon finding that to do so would aid in protecting the victim of the alleged abuse, the court may enter, in addition to a restraining order described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, other appropriate orders including, but not limited to, orders that control contact between the alleged abuser and other children in the household.

      (c) The court shall include in an order entered under this subsection the following information about the person to be restrained:

      (A) Name;

      (B) Address;

      (C) Age and birth date;

      (D) Race;

      (E) Sex;

      (F) Height and weight; and

      (G) Color of hair and eyes.

      (d) The court may include in the order a provision that a peace officer accompany the restrained person to the household when it is necessary for the person to remove the person’s essential personal effects including, but not limited to, clothing, toiletries, medications, Social Security cards, certified copies of records of live birth, identification and tools of the trade. The restrained person is entitled to remove the person’s essential personal effects under this paragraph on one occasion only and is required to be accompanied by a peace officer. The restrained person and the peace officer shall remain for no longer than 20 minutes and the peace officer may temporarily interrupt the removal of essential personal effects at any time. Nothing in this paragraph affects a peace officer’s duty to arrest under ORS 133.055 and 133.310. A peace officer who accompanies a restrained person under this paragraph has immunity from any liability, civil or criminal, for any actions the person commits during the removal of the person’s essential personal effects.

      (2) If the court enters an order under this section:

      (a) The clerk of the court shall provide without charge the number of certified copies of the petition and order necessary to effect service and shall have a copy of the petition and order delivered to the sheriff or other person qualified to serve the order for service upon the person to be restrained; and

      (b) The sheriff or other person qualified to serve the order shall serve the person to be restrained personally unless that person is present at the hearing. After accepting the order, if the sheriff or other person cannot complete service within 10 days, the sheriff or other person shall hold the order for future service and file a return to the clerk of the court showing that service was not completed.

      (3) Within 30 days after an order is served under this section, the restrained person may file a written request with the court and receive a court hearing on any portion of the order. If the restrained person requests a hearing under this subsection:

      (a) The clerk of the court shall notify the parties and, if the restrained person is not a party, the restrained person of the date and time of the hearing; and

      (b) The court shall hold the hearing within 21 days after the request and may cancel or modify the order.

      (4) Upon receipt of a copy of the order and notice of completion of any required service by a member of a law enforcement agency, the sheriff shall immediately enter the order into the Law Enforcement Data System maintained by the Department of State Police. If the order was served on the person to be restrained by a person other than a member of a law enforcement agency, the county sheriff shall enter the order into the Law Enforcement Data System upon receipt of a true copy of the affidavit of proof of service. Entry into the Law Enforcement Data System constitutes notice to all law enforcement agencies of the existence of the order. Law enforcement agencies shall establish procedures adequate to ensure that an officer at the scene of an alleged violation of the order may be informed of the existence and terms of the order. The order is fully enforceable in any county in this state.

      (5) A restraining order issued pursuant to this section remains in effect for a period of one year or until the order is modified, amended or terminated by court order.

      (6) A court that issued a restraining order under this section may renew the order for a period of up to one year if the court finds that there is probable cause to believe the renewal is in the best interest of the child. The court may renew the order on motion alleging facts supporting the required finding. If the renewal order is granted, subsections (2) and (3) of this section apply.

      (7) If a restraining order issued pursuant to this section is terminated before its expiration date, the clerk of the court shall immediately deliver a copy of the termination order to the sheriff. The sheriff shall promptly remove the original order from the Law Enforcement Data System.

      (8) Pending a contempt hearing for alleged violation of a restraining order issued under this section, a person arrested and taken into custody pursuant to ORS 133.310 may be released as provided in ORS 135.230 to 135.290. Unless the order provides otherwise, the security amount for release shall be $5,000.

      (9) When a restraining order entered under this section prohibits the restrained person from contacting the protected person in writing, the restrained person does not violate the restraining order by serving on the protected person a copy of a notice of appeal of the restraining order or any other document required by law to be served on the adverse party to an appeal if:

      (a) Neither the restrained person nor the protected person is represented by counsel;

      (b) The restrained person serves the document by mail; and

      (c) The contents of the document are not intended to harass or intimidate the protected person. [Formerly 419B.190; 2007 c.255 §13; 2011 c.269 §7; 2013 c.366 §75]

 

      419B.846 Service of restraining order. (1) A sheriff may serve a restraining order issued under ORS 419B.845 in the county in which the sheriff was elected and in any county that is adjacent to the county in which the sheriff was elected.

      (2) A sheriff may serve and enter into the Law Enforcement Data System a copy of a restraining order under ORS 419B.845 that was transmitted to the sheriff by a court or law enforcement agency using an electronic communication device. Before transmitting a restraining order to a sheriff under this subsection by telephonic facsimile or electronic mail, the person sending the copy must receive confirmation from the sheriff’s office that an electronic communication device is available and operating. For purposes of this subsection, “electronic communication device” means a device by which any kind of electronic communication can be made, including but not limited to communication by telephonic facsimile and electronic mail. [2003 c.304 §14; 2007 c.255 §14; 2011 c.269 §8]

 

      419B.848 Process generally. (1) All process authorized to be issued by any court or officer of the court runs in the name of the State of Oregon and must be signed by the officer issuing the process, and if the process is issued by a clerk of the court, the seal of office of the clerk must be affixed to the process. Summonses and subpoenas are not process.

      (2) A civil process may be served or executed on Sunday or any legal holiday. No limitation or prohibition stated in ORS 1.060 applies to the service or execution of a civil process on a Sunday or legal holiday.

      (3)(a) All papers requiring service, may be transmitted from any place by telegraph, facsimile or electronic mail.

      (b) The facsimile or telegraphic copy, as defined in ORS 165.840, of the order or paper transmitted may be served or executed by the officer or person to whom it is sent for that purpose and returned by the officer or person if any return is required in the same manner and with the same force and effect in all respects as if the copy were the original. The officer or person serving or executing the order or paper has the same authority and is subject to the same liabilities as if the copy were the original. The original, if an order, must be filed in the court from which it was issued and a certified copy of the order must be preserved in the office from which it was sent. The operator may use either the original or certified copy to transmit the order or paper.

      (4) Proof of service or execution of process must be made as provided in ORS 419B.833 or 419B.851. [2001 c.622 §14; 2017 c.737 §11]

 

      419B.851 Service of process; filing; proof of service. (1) Except as otherwise provided in ORS 419B.800 to 419B.929, every order, every petition and answer subsequent to the original petition, every written motion other than one that may be heard ex parte and every written request and similar paper must be served upon each of the parties.

      (2)(a) Whenever under ORS 419B.800 to 419B.929 service is required or permitted to be made upon a party, and that party is represented by an attorney, the service must be made upon the attorney unless otherwise ordered by the court. Service upon the attorney or upon a party must be made by:

      (A) Delivering a copy to the attorney or party;

      (B) Mailing a copy to the attorney’s or party’s last known address;

      (C) If the party is represented by an attorney, facsimile communication device as provided in subsection (6) of this section;

      (D) Electronic mail as provided in subsection (7)(a) of this section; or

      (E) Electronic service through the court’s electronic filing system under subsection (7)(b) of this section.

      (b) As used in paragraph (a) of this subsection, “delivery of a copy” means:

      (A) Handing it to the person to be served;

      (B) Leaving it at the person’s office with the person’s clerk or a person apparently in charge of the office or, if there is no one in charge, leaving it in a conspicuous place in the office; or

      (C) If the office is closed or the person to be served has no office, leaving it at the person’s dwelling house or usual place of abode with a person who is over 14 years of age and who resides at the dwelling house or usual place of abode.

      (c) A party who has appeared without providing an appropriate address for service may be served by placing a copy of the paper required to be served in the court file. Service by mail is complete upon mailing. Service of any notice or other paper to bring a party into contempt may only be upon such party personally.

      (3) When a petition is filed under subsection (1) of this section alleging that a child who is a foreign national is within the jurisdiction of the court, or when a motion is filed requesting implementation of a plan other than return of a ward to the ward’s parent, a copy of the petition or motion shall be served on the consulate for the child or ward’s country.

      (4)(a) All papers required to be served upon a party under subsection (1) of this section must be filed with the court within a reasonable time after service.

      (b) Except as otherwise provided in ORS 419B.812 to 419B.839 and 419B.845, proof of service of all papers required or permitted to be served may be by:

      (A) Written acknowledgment of service;

      (B) An affidavit of the person making service;

      (C) A certificate of an attorney;

      (D) When service is made by facsimile communication device, an affidavit or declaration of the person making service or a certificate of an attorney with the printed confirmation of receipt of the message that is generated by the facsimile machine attached to the affidavit or certificate;

      (E) When service is made by electronic mail under subsection (7)(a) of this section, an affidavit or declaration of the person making the service, or certificate of an attorney, stating either that the party consented to service by electronic mail or that the person received confirmation that the message and attachment were received by the party and specifying the method by which the person received confirmation from the party; or

      (F) If service is made by electronic service under subsection (7)(b) of this section, an affidavit or declaration of the person making service, or by certificate of an attorney, specifying that service was completed by electronic service.

      (c) The proof of service required under paragraph (b)(E) or (F) of this subsection may not be by receipt of an automatically generated message indicating that the party is out of the office or an automatically generated delivery status notification.

      (d) Proof of service may be made upon the papers served or as a separate document attached to the papers.

      (5) The filing of any papers with the court must be made by filing them with the clerk of the court or the person exercising the duties of that office. The clerk or the person exercising the duties of that office shall indorse the time of day, day of the month, month and year upon the paper. The clerk or person exercising the duties of that office is not required to receive any paper for filing unless:

      (a) The contents of the paper are legible; and

      (b) All of the following are legibly indorsed on the front of the paper:

      (A) The name of the court;

      (B) The title of the cause and the paper;

      (C) The names of the parties; and

      (D) If there is one, the name of the attorney for the parties requesting filing.

      (6) Whenever under ORS 419B.800 to 419B.929 service is required or permitted to be made upon a party and that party is represented by an attorney, the service may be made upon the attorney by means of a facsimile if the attorney maintains such a device at the attorney’s office and the device is operating at the time service is made.

      (7) Whenever under ORS 419B.800 to 419B.929 service is required or permitted to be made upon a party, unless the party or the party’s attorney is exempted from service by electronic mail or electronic service by an order of the court, the service may be made by one of the following means:

      (a) Electronic mail. Service by electronic mail is complete under this subsection on confirmation of receipt of the electronic mail or, if the party has consented to service by electronic mail, on transmission of the electronic mail. A party or a party’s attorney must provide the name and electronic mail address of that party or that attorney on any document served by electronic mail. A party or attorney who has made service by electronic mail must notify other parties in writing of any changes to that party’s or that attorney’s electronic mail address.

      (b) Electronic service using the electronic filing system provided by the Judicial Department in the manner prescribed in rules adopted by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. [2001 c.622 §15; 2003 c.143 §5; 2003 c.396 §34b; 2017 c.737 §9]

 

      419B.854 Computing statutory time periods. (1) In computing any period of time prescribed or allowed by any applicable statute, by the local rules of any court or by order of court, the day of the act or event from which the designated period of time begins to run is not included. The last day of the period so computed is included, unless it is a Saturday or legal holiday, in which event the period runs until the end of the next day that is not a Saturday or a legal holiday. If the period of time relates to serving a public officer or filing a document at a public office and if the last day falls on a day when that particular office is closed before the end of or for all of the normal work day, the last day is excluded in computing the period of time, in which event the period runs until the close of office hours on the next day the office is open for business. When the period of time prescribed or allowed, without including the extra time allowed by subsection (2) of this section, is less than seven days, intermediate Saturdays and legal holidays are excluded in the computation. As used in this subsection, a “legal holiday” means a day described in ORS 187.010 or 187.020.

      (2) Except for service of summons, whenever a party has the right or is required to do some act within a prescribed period after the service of a notice or other paper upon the party and the notice or paper is served by mail, three days are added to the prescribed period. [2001 c.622 §16]

 

      419B.857 Pleadings; construction. (1) All petitions, answers, motions and other papers must be liberally construed with a view of substantial justice between the parties.

      (2) In every stage of an action, the court shall disregard an error or defect in a petition, answer, motion, other paper or proceeding that does not affect the substantial rights of the adverse party. [2001 c.622 §17]

 

      419B.860 Motions. (1) An application for an order is a motion. Unless a motion is made in court, the motion must be in writing, state with particularity the factual and legal grounds for the motion and set forth the relief or order sought.

      (2) ORS 419B.863 and 419B.866 and any local rules of any court applicable to captions, signing and other matters of form of petitions and answers apply to all motions and other papers provided for by ORS 419B.800 to 419B.929. [2001 c.622 §18]

 

      419B.863 Pleadings; captions. (1) Every petition, answer, motion or other paper must contain a caption setting forth the name of the court, the title of the action and the register number of the case.

      (2) When a party does not know the name of another party and alleges that lack of knowledge in a petition, answer, motion or other paper, the other party may be designated by any name. When the other party’s true name is discovered, the process and all petitions, answers, motions, other papers and proceedings in the case may be amended by substituting the true name. [2001 c.622 §19]

 

      419B.866 Signing pleadings required; effect of signing or not signing. (1) If a party is represented by an attorney, every answer, motion and other paper of the party must be signed by an attorney of record who is an active member of the Oregon State Bar. If a party is not represented by an attorney, the party shall sign the petition, answer, motion or other paper and state the address of the party. Only petitions need be verified. Motions must be accompanied by an affidavit unless the parties agree otherwise.

      (2) If a petition, answer, motion or other paper is not signed, it must be stricken unless it is signed promptly after the omission is called to the attention of the pleader or movant.

      (3)(a) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (d) of this subsection, by signing, filing or otherwise submitting an argument in support of a petition, answer, motion or other paper, an attorney or party makes the certifications to the court identified in paragraphs (b), (c) and (d) of this subsection and further certifies that the certifications are based on the person’s reasonable knowledge, information and belief formed after the making of any inquiry that is reasonable under the circumstances.

      (b) A party or attorney certifies that the petition, answer, motion or other paper is not being presented for any improper purpose including, but not limited to, harassing or causing unnecessary delay or needless increase in the cost of litigation.

      (c) An attorney certifies that the claims and other legal positions taken in the petition, answer, motion or other paper are warranted by existing law or by a nonfrivolous argument for the extension, modification or reversal of existing law or the establishment of new law.

      (d) A party or attorney certifies that the allegations and other factual assertions in the petition, answer, motion or other paper are supported by evidence. An allegation or other factual assertion that the party or attorney does not wish to certify is supported by evidence must be specifically identified. The party or attorney certifies that the party or attorney reasonably believes that an allegation or other factual assertion so identified will be supported by evidence after further investigation and discovery. [2001 c.622 §20]

 

      419B.869 Responding to pleadings; time limit. (1) No later than 30 days after a petition alleging jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100 is filed, each party about whom allegations have been made shall admit or deny the allegations. Unless the court specifies how admissions or denials are to be made pursuant to ORS 419B.800, admissions and denials may be made orally in court or in writing.

      (2) Allegations in a petition that are not admitted or denied are denied. [2001 c.622 §21]

 

      419B.872 Amendment of pleadings. (1) A petition, answer, motion or other paper may be amended by a party within a reasonable time before an adjudication on the petition, answer, motion or other paper. Whenever an amended petition, answer, motion or other paper is filed, it shall be served upon all parties. When the interests of justice require additional time to prepare, due to the amendments to the petition, answer, motion or other paper, the court shall grant such additional time as is reasonable.

      (2) The court, on motion of an interested party or on its own motion, may at any time direct that the petition be amended. If the amendment results in a substantial departure from the facts originally alleged, the court shall grant such continuance as the interests of justice may require. [Formerly 419B.245]

 

      419B.875 Parties to proceedings; rights of limited participation; status of grandparents; interpreters. (1)(a) Parties to proceedings in the juvenile court under ORS 419B.100 and 419B.500 are:

      (A) The child or ward;

      (B) The parents or guardian of the child or ward;

      (C) A putative father of the child or ward who has demonstrated a direct and significant commitment to the child or ward by assuming, or attempting to assume, responsibilities normally associated with parenthood, including but not limited to:

      (i) Residing with the child or ward;

      (ii) Contributing to the financial support of the child or ward; or

      (iii) Establishing psychological ties with the child or ward;

      (D) The state;

      (E) The juvenile department;

      (F) A court appointed special advocate, if appointed;

      (G) The Department of Human Services or other child-caring agency if the department has taken the child or ward into protective custody or if the department or agency has temporary custody of the child or ward; and

      (H) If the child or ward is an Indian child:

      (i) The Indian child’s tribe; and

      (ii) The Indian child’s Indian custodian.

      (b) An intervenor who is granted intervention under ORS 419B.116 is a party to a proceeding under ORS 419B.100. An intervenor under this paragraph is not a party to a proceeding under ORS 419B.500.

      (c) If an Indian child is a member of or is eligible for membership in more than one tribe, the court may, in its discretion, permit a tribe, in addition to the Indian child’s tribe, to participate in a proceeding under this chapter involving the Indian child in an advisory capacity or as a party.

      (2) The rights of the parties include, but are not limited to:

      (a) The right to notice of the proceeding and copies of the petitions, answers, motions and other papers;

      (b) The right to appear with counsel and, except for intervenors under subsection (1)(b) of this section, to have counsel appointed as otherwise provided by law;

      (c) The right to call witnesses, cross-examine witnesses and participate in hearings;

      (d) The right of appeal; and

      (e) The right to request a hearing.

      (3) A putative father who satisfies the criteria set out in subsection (1)(a)(C) of this section shall be treated as a parent, as that term is used in this chapter and ORS chapters 419A and 419C, until the court confirms his parentage or finds that he is not the legal or biological parent of the child or ward.

      (4) If no appeal from the judgment or order is pending, a putative father whom a court of competent jurisdiction has found not to be the child or ward’s legal or biological parent or who has filed a petition for filiation that was dismissed is not a party under subsection (1) of this section.

      (5)(a) A person granted rights of limited participation under ORS 419B.116 is not a party to a proceeding under ORS 419B.100 or 419B.500 but has only those rights specified in the order granting rights of limited participation.

      (b) Persons moving for or granted rights of limited participation are not entitled to appointed counsel but may appear with retained counsel.

      (6) If a foster parent, preadoptive parent or relative is currently providing care for a child or ward, the Department of Human Services shall give the foster parent, preadoptive parent or relative notice of a proceeding concerning the child or ward. A foster parent, preadoptive parent or relative providing care for a child or ward has the right to be heard at the proceeding. Except when allowed to intervene, the foster parent, preadoptive parent or relative providing care for the child or ward is not considered a party to the juvenile court proceeding solely because of notice and the right to be heard at the proceeding.

      (7)(a) The Department of Human Services shall make diligent efforts to identify and obtain contact information for the grandparents of a child or ward committed to the department’s custody. Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, when the department knows the identity of and has contact information for a grandparent, the department shall give the grandparent notice of a hearing concerning the child or ward. Upon a showing of good cause, the court may relieve the department of its responsibility to provide notice under this paragraph.

      (b) If a grandparent of a child or ward is present at a hearing concerning the child or ward, and the court informs the grandparent of the date and time of a future hearing, the department is not required to give notice of the future hearing to the grandparent.

      (c) If a grandparent is present at a hearing concerning a child or ward, the court shall give the grandparent an opportunity to be heard.

      (d) The court’s orders or judgments entered in proceedings under ORS 419B.185, 419B.310, 419B.325, 419B.449, 419B.476 and 419B.500 must include findings of the court as to whether the grandparent had notice of the hearing, attended the hearing and had an opportunity to be heard.

      (e) Notwithstanding the provisions of this subsection, a grandparent is not a party to the juvenile court proceeding unless the grandparent has been granted rights of intervention under ORS 419B.116.

      (f) As used in this subsection, “grandparent” means the legal parent of the child’s or ward’s legal parent, regardless of whether the parental rights of the child’s or ward’s legal parent have been terminated under ORS 419B.500 to 419B.524.

      (8) Interpreters for parties and persons granted rights of limited participation shall be appointed in the manner specified by ORS 45.275 and 45.285. [Formerly 419B.115; 2003 c.231 §§1,2; 2003 c.396 §§93a,94a; 2005 c.160 §4; 2005 c.450 §8; 2007 c.454 §11; 2007 c.611 §9; 2013 c.436 §1; 2015 c.216 §1; 2017 c.651 §44; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §28; 2021 c.398 §13; 2023 c.267 §8]

 

      419B.876 Visitation or other contact between grandparent and ward; findings; order; appeal. (1) The grandparent of a ward who has been placed in the legal custody of the Department of Human Services for care, placement and supervision pursuant to ORS 419B.337 and who is in substitute care as defined in ORS 419A.004 may, at any hearing concerning the ward except for a hearing under ORS 419B.500, request that the court order visitation or other contact or communication between the grandparent and the ward, provided the grandparent has notified the department and parties in the proceeding of the grandparent’s intent to make the request at the hearing at least 30 days before the date of the hearing.

      (2) If the notice required under subsection (1) of this section has been given, the court may grant the grandparent’s request in whole or in part if the court finds that:

      (a) Prior to the establishment of wardship:

      (A) An ongoing relationship existed between the grandparent and the ward that included regular visits or other contact or communication; or

      (B) Despite the grandparent’s efforts, no ongoing relationship existed between the grandparent and the ward due to circumstances beyond the grandparent’s control;

      (b) Ordering visitation or other contact or communication between the grandparent and the ward will support and not interfere with development and implementation of a permanent or concurrent permanent plan for the ward;

      (c) Ordering visitation or other contact or communication between the grandparent and the ward will not reduce the frequency or the quality of a parent’s visitation or other contact or communication with the ward;

      (d) If the court determines consultation with the ward is appropriate, the ward has been consulted and agrees that the court should allow the grandparent’s request in whole or in part;

      (e) Ordering visitation or other contact or communication between the grandparent and the ward is in the ward’s best interests; and

      (f) Ordering visitation or other contact or communication between the grandparent and the ward would not unreasonably burden the resources of the Department of Human Services.

      (3) Unless otherwise agreed by the Department of Human Services and the grandparent, the costs of transportation, lodging, food or other expenses required to implement visitation ordered by the court under this section shall be the responsibility of the grandparent.

      (4) Notwithstanding ORS 419A.200, a grandparent may not appeal from or otherwise challenge on appeal an order or judgment of the court denying in whole or in part a request for visitation or other contact or communication made under this section.

      (5) The court may receive testimony, reports or other material relating to the ward’s mental, physical and social history and prognosis without regard to the competency or relevancy of the testimony, reports or other material under the rules of evidence for the purpose of making the findings required by subsection (2) of this section.

      (6) As used in this section, “grandparent” means the legal parent of the child’s or ward’s legal parent, regardless of whether the parental rights of the child’s or ward’s legal parent have been terminated under ORS 419B.500 to 419B.524. [2013 c.436 §3; 2015 c.216 §2]

 

      Note: 419B.876 was added to and made a part of ORS chapter 419B by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.878 Judicial inquiry and finding regarding whether child is Indian child. (1) When a court conducts a hearing, the court shall inquire and make a finding, subject to the procedures under ORS 419B.636 (4), regarding whether a child is an Indian child.

      (2) If the court enters an order described in ORS 419B.636 (4)(b) directing that the child be treated as an Indian child, the court shall enter an order requiring the Department of Human Services to comply with the inquiry and notice provisions of ORS 419B.636 and 419B.639. [2001 c.622 §22; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §40; 2021 c.398 §76]

 

      419B.881 Disclosure; scope; when required; exceptions; breach of duty to disclose. (1) In all proceedings brought under ORS 419B.100 or 419B.500, each party, including the state, shall disclose to each other party and to a guardian ad litem appointed under ORS 419B.231 the following information and material within the possession or under the control of the party:

      (a) The names and addresses of all persons the party intends to call as witnesses at any stage of the hearing, together with any relevant written or recorded statements or memoranda of any oral statements of such persons;

      (b) Any written or recorded statements or memoranda of any oral statements made either by the parent or by the child to any other party or agent for any other party;

      (c) Any reports or statements of experts who will be called as witnesses, including the results of any physical or mental examinations and of comparisons or experiments that the party intends to offer in evidence at the hearing; and

      (d) Any books, papers, documents or photographs that the party intends to offer in evidence at the hearing, or that were obtained from or belong to any other party.

      (2)(a) Disclosure under subsection (1) of this section must be made as soon as practicable following the filing of a petition and no later than:

      (A) Thirty days after a petition alleging jurisdiction has been filed.

      (B) Three days before any review hearing, except for information received or discovered less than three days prior to the hearing.

      (C) Ten days before a permanency hearing or a termination trial, except for information received or discovered less than 10 days prior to the hearing or trial.

      (b) The court may supervise the exercise of discovery to the extent necessary to insure that it proceeds properly and expeditiously.

      (3)(a) When a ward has been placed in the legal custody of the Department of Human Services for care, placement and supervision under ORS 419B.337, the department shall disclose to all parties the case plan developed under ORS 419B.343, modifications to the case plan and any written material or information about services provided to the ward, or to the ward’s parent or parents, under the case plan.

      (b) Disclosure under this subsection must be made within 10 days of:

      (A) Completion or modification of the case plan; and

      (B) Receipt by the department of the written material or information about services provided under the case plan.

      (4) The obligation to disclose is an ongoing obligation and if a party finds, either before or during the hearing, additional material or information that is subject to disclosure, the information or material shall be promptly disclosed.

      (5) The following material and information need not be disclosed:

      (a) Attorney work product; and

      (b) Transcripts, recordings or memoranda of testimony of witnesses before the grand jury, except transcripts or recordings of testimony of a party to the current juvenile court proceeding.

      (6) A party may not disclose a record of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, as defined in ORS 409.225, under this section unless:

      (a) The department determines, in written findings, that failure to disclose the record is reasonably likely to jeopardize the child’s safety or well-being; or

      (b) The child or the child’s attorney consents to the disclosure.

      (7) Upon a showing of good cause, the court may at any time order that specified disclosure be denied, restricted or deferred or make such other order as is appropriate.

      (8) Upon request of a party, the court may permit a showing of good cause for denial or regulation of disclosure by the parties or the contents of subpoenaed materials, or portion of the showing, to be made in camera. A record shall be made of the proceeding.

      (9) If the court enters an order following an in camera showing, the entire record of the showing shall be sealed and preserved in the records of the court, to be made available to the appellate court in the event of an appeal. The trial court may, after disposition, unseal the record.

      (10) When some parts of certain material are subject to disclosure and other parts are not, as much of the material as is subject to disclosure shall be disclosed.

      (11) Upon being notified of any breach of a duty to disclose material or information, the court may:

      (a) Order the violating party to permit inspection of the material;

      (b) Grant a continuance;

      (c) Refuse to permit the witness to testify;

      (d) Refuse to receive in evidence the material that was not disclosed; or

      (e) Enter such other order as the court considers appropriate. [Formerly 419B.300; 2005 c.450 §9; 2013 c.439 §1; 2023 c.129 §3]

 

      419B.884 Depositions; procedure. (1) After the commencement of a proceeding under ORS 419B.100 or 419B.500, a party may move the court for an order allowing a deposition to be taken to perpetuate the testimony of a witness who is:

      (a) Outside the jurisdiction of, or otherwise not subject to the process of, the court; or

      (b) Unable to attend because of age, sickness, infirmity, imprisonment or undue hardship.

      (2) The affidavit in support of the motion to take a deposition to perpetuate testimony, in addition to setting forth the reasons described in subsection (1)(a) and (b) of this section, shall also set forth:

      (a) The reasons why the testimony of the witness sought to be deposed cannot be taken by telephone at the time of the hearing;

      (b) Where the deposition is to be taken;

      (c) The manner of recording the deposition; and

      (d) A brief statement of the substance of the testimony that the witness is expected to give.

      (3) If the court finds that taking a deposition will best promote the just, speedy and inexpensive resolution of one or more issues in the proceeding or that taking a deposition is necessary to meet the requirements of due process, the court shall grant the motion.

      (4) If the motion is granted, the court may, in its discretion, set conditions regarding the time, place and method of taking the deposition. [Formerly 419B.315]

 

      419B.887 Objections at depositions; effect of failure to make timely objection; errors and irregularities in transcript preparation. (1) As used in this section, “deposition” means a deposition taken under ORS 419B.884.

      (2) Objections to the competency of a witness or to the competency, relevancy, or materiality of testimony are not waived by failure to make them before or during the taking of a deposition unless the ground for the objection is one that might have been obviated or removed if presented before or during the taking of the deposition.

      (3) Unless seasonable objection is made at the time the deposition is taken, the following are waived:

      (a) Errors and irregularities occurring at the oral examination in the manner of taking the deposition, in the form of the questions or answers, in the oath or affirmation or in the conduct of the parties; and

      (b) Errors of any kind that might be obviated, removed or cured if promptly presented.

      (4) Unless a motion to suppress the deposition or some part of the deposition is made with reasonable promptness after the error or irregularity is, or with due diligence might have been, ascertained, errors and irregularities in the manner in which the testimony is transcribed or the deposition is prepared, signed, certified, sealed, indorsed, transmitted and filed are waived. [2001 c.622 §23]

 

      419B.890 Dismissal of petition at end of petitioner’s case; settlement conference. (1) After the proponent of the petition has completed the presentation of evidence, any other party, without waiving the right to offer evidence in the event the motion is not granted, may move for dismissal of any or all of the allegations of the petition on the ground that upon the facts and the law the proponent of the petition has failed to prove the allegations or, if proven, the allegations do not constitute a legal basis for the relief sought by the petition. The court may order dismissal of the petition or one or more of the allegations of the petition, or the court may decline to render any order until the close of all the evidence.

      (2) Unless the court in its judgment of dismissal otherwise specifies, a dismissal under this section operates as an adjudication without prejudice.

      (3) At any time at the request of a party or upon the court’s own motion, the court may order a settlement conference or, if funds are available for a mediator, mediation.

      (4) If there is reason to know that the child or ward is an Indian child, prior to scheduling a settlement conference on jurisdiction, guardianship under ORS 419B.365 or 419B.366 or termination of parental rights under ORS 419B.500, the petitioner shall provide notice to the Indian child’s tribe pursuant to ORS 419B.639. In addition, the court shall provide notice to the Indian child’s tribe that includes a description of the settlement process, the procedure to schedule the settlement conference and the date that the hearing will occur if settlement is not reached. [2001 c.622 §24; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §41]

 

      419B.893 Subpoenas generally. (1) A subpoena is a writ or an order directed to a person and may require the attendance of the person at a particular time and place to testify as a witness on behalf of a particular party mentioned in the subpoena or may require the person to produce books, papers, documents or other tangible things and permit inspection of them at a particular time and place. A subpoena may be for a trial, a hearing of any kind or a deposition under ORS 419B.884. A subpoena requiring attendance to testify as a witness requires that the witness remain until the testimony is closed unless sooner discharged, but at the end of each day’s attendance a witness may demand of the party, or the party’s attorney, the payment of legal witness fees for the next following day and if not then paid, the witness is not obliged to remain longer in attendance. Every subpoena must state the name of the court and the title of the action.

      (2) Any party may have compulsory attendance of witnesses or the compulsory production of records. [2001 c.622 §25; 2003 c.14 §227]

 

      419B.896 Subpoena for production of books, papers, documents and other tangible things. A subpoena may command the person to whom it is directed to produce and permit inspection and copying, at the time and place specified in the subpoena, of designated books, papers, documents or other tangible things in the possession, custody or control of the person. A command to produce books, papers, documents or other tangible things and permit inspection of them may be joined with a command to appear at trial or hearing or, if the books, papers, documents or other tangible things are to be produced before trial, the command may be issued separately. A person commanded to produce and permit inspection and copying of designated books, papers, documents or other tangible things but not commanded to also appear for deposition under ORS 419B.884, hearing or trial may, within 14 days after service of the subpoena or before the time specified for compliance if such time is less than 14 days after service, serve upon the party or attorney designated in the subpoena written objection to inspection or copying of any or all of the designated materials. If objection is made, the party serving the subpoena may not inspect and copy the materials except pursuant to an order of the court in whose name the subpoena was issued. If objection has been made, the party serving the subpoena, upon notice to the person commanded to produce, may move for an order to compel production. When a subpoena commands production of books, papers, documents or other tangible things, the court, upon motion made promptly and in any event at or before the time specified in the subpoena for compliance with the subpoena, may:

      (1) Quash or modify the subpoena if it is unreasonable and oppressive; or

      (2) Condition denial of the motion upon the advancement by the person in whose behalf the subpoena is issued of the reasonable cost of producing the books, papers, documents or other tangible things. [2001 c.622 §26; 2003 c.14 §228]

 

      419B.899 Issuance of subpoena. (1) A subpoena may be issued:

      (a) To require attendance before a court, at the trial of an issue in a court or, if separate from a subpoena commanding the attendance of a person, to produce and permit inspection of books, papers, documents or other tangible things. A subpoena may be issued under this paragraph:

      (A) In blank by the clerk of the court in which the action is pending or, if there is no clerk, by a judge or justice of the court; or

      (B) By an attorney of record of the party to the action in whose behalf the witness is required to appear, subscribed by the signature of the attorney.

      (b) To require attendance at a deposition authorized under ORS 419B.884.

      (c) To require attendance out of court in cases not provided for in paragraph (a) of this subsection, before a judge, justice or other officer authorized to administer oaths or take testimony in any matter under the laws of this state. A subpoena may be issued under this paragraph by the judge, justice or other officer before whom the attendance is required.

      (2) Upon the request of a party or attorney, any subpoena issued by a clerk of court may be issued in blank and delivered to the party or attorney requesting it, who must fill it in before service.

      (3) A subpoena to produce and permit inspection of records of a person who is not a party to the action must be served on the person and, if the person is represented, the person’s attorney at least 10 days before the subpoena is served on the keeper or custodian of the records. [2001 c.622 §27; 2003 c.14 §229]

 

      419B.902 Service of subpoena. (1) A subpoena may be served by the party or any other person 18 years of age or older. Except as provided in subsections (2), (3) and (4) of this section, the service must be made by delivering a copy to the witness personally. The service must be made so as to allow the witness a reasonable time for preparation and travel to the place of attendance. If the subpoena is not accompanied by a command to appear at trial, hearing or deposition under ORS 419B.884, whether the subpoena is served personally or by mail, copies of a subpoena commanding production and inspection of books, papers, documents or other tangible things before trial must be served on each party at least seven days before the subpoena is served on the person required to produce and permit inspection, unless the court orders a shorter period.

      (2)(a) A law enforcement agency shall designate an individual upon whom service of a subpoena may be made. A designated individual must be available during normal business hours. In the absence of a designated individual, service of a subpoena under paragraph (b) of this subsection may be made upon the officer in charge of the law enforcement agency.

      (b) If a peace officer’s attendance at trial is required as a result of employment as a peace officer, a subpoena may be served on the officer by delivering a copy personally to the officer or to an individual designated by the agency that employs the officer no later than 10 days prior to the date attendance is sought. A subpoena may be served in this manner only if the officer is currently employed as a peace officer and is present within the state at the time of service.

      (c) When a subpoena has been served as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, the law enforcement agency shall make a good faith effort to give actual notice to the officer whose attendance is sought of the date, time and location of the court appearance. If the officer cannot be notified, the law enforcement agency shall promptly notify the court and a postponement or continuance may be granted to allow the officer to be personally served.

      (d) As used in this subsection, “law enforcement agency” means the Oregon State Police, a county sheriff’s department, a municipal police department, a police department established by a university under ORS 352.121 or 353.125 or, if the witness whose attendance at trial is required is an authorized tribal police officer as defined in ORS 181A.940, a tribal government as defined in ORS 181A.940.

      (3) Under the following circumstances, service of a subpoena to a witness by mail has the same legal force and effect as personal service:

      (a) The attorney mailing the subpoena certifies in connection with or upon the return of service that the attorney, or the attorney’s agent, has had personal or telephone contact with the witness and the witness indicated a willingness to appear at trial if subpoenaed; or

      (b) The subpoena was mailed to the witness more than five days before trial by certified mail or some other designation of mail that provides a receipt for the mail signed by the recipient and the attorney received a return receipt signed by the witness prior to trial.

      (4) Service of subpoena by mail may be used for a subpoena commanding production of books, papers, documents or other tangible things that is not accompanied by a command to appear at trial or hearing or at a deposition under ORS 419B.884.

      (5) Proof of service of a subpoena is made in the same manner as proof of service of a summons except that the server is not required to certify that the server is not a party in the action or an attorney for a party in the action. [2001 c.622 §28; 2003 c.14 §230; 2011 c.644 §§30,68,75; 2013 c.180 §§41,42; 2015 c.174 §21]

 

      419B.905 Subpoena of incarcerated witness. If a witness is confined in a prison or jail in this state, a subpoena may be served on the witness and attendance of the witness may be compelled. The subpoena and court order must be served upon the custodian of the witness. The court may order:

      (1) Temporary removal and production of the witness for the purpose of giving testimony;

      (2) That the witness be allowed to testify by telephone or closed-circuit television; or

      (3) That the testimony of the witness be taken by deposition under ORS 419B.884 at the place of confinement. [2001 c.622 §29]

 

      419B.908 Witness fees; payment. Witnesses subpoenaed to give testimony shall receive the same fees as are paid in criminal cases. Except as provided by this section, responsibility for the per diem and mileage fees of any witness, and travel expenses if so ordered by the court, shall be borne by the party who subpoenas the witness or requests the court to subpoena the witness. If the witness was subpoenaed by more than one party, the witness shall be paid by the party who first subpoenas the witness. The court may then, thereafter, order that the costs be distributed equally among all parties who subpoenaed the witness and that the original payor of the costs be reimbursed accordingly. When the witness has been subpoenaed on behalf of a party who is represented by appointed counsel, the fees and costs allowed for that witness shall be paid pursuant to ORS 135.055. [Formerly 419B.320]

 

      419B.911 Failure to obey subpoena. Disobedience to a subpoena or a refusal to be sworn or answer as a witness is punishable as contempt by the court before whom the action is pending or by the judge or justice issuing the subpoena. [2001 c.622 §30]

 

      419B.914 Proceeding when person entitled to service is not summoned and is not before court. If the child or ward is before the court, the court has the power to proceed with the case without service upon those entitled to service under ORS 419B.812 to 419B.839 if diligent efforts have failed to reveal the identity or the whereabouts of the person, except that:

      (1) No order entered pursuant to ORS 419B.500, 419B.502, 419B.504, 419B.506 and 419B.508 may be entered unless ORS 419B.518, 419B.521, 419B.524 and 419B.812 to 419B.839 are complied with.

      (2) No order for support as provided in ORS 419B.400, 419B.402, 419B.404 and 419B.406 may be entered against a person unless that person is served as provided in ORS 419B.812 to 419B.839. [Formerly 419B.285; 2003 c.396 §95]

 

      419B.917 [2001 c.622 §31; repealed by 2003 c.205 §12 (419B.918 enacted in lieu of 419B.917)]

 

      419B.918 Manner of appearance. (1) Notwithstanding ORS 419B.815, 419B.816, 419B.819 and 419B.820, on timely written motion of a person showing good cause, a court may permit the person, instead of appearing personally, to participate in any hearing related to a petition alleging jurisdiction under ORS 419B.100, a petition to establish a permanent guardianship under ORS 419B.365 or a petition seeking termination of parental rights under ORS 419B.500, 419B.502, 419B.504, 419B.506 or 419B.508 in any manner that complies with the requirements of due process including, but not limited to, telephonic or other electronic means.

      (2) If a person who is summoned or ordered to appear under ORS 419B.815, 419B.816, 419B.819 or 419B.820 seeks to reschedule any hearing at which the person is required to appear, the person must:

      (a) Appear personally at the time specified in the summons or order to request the change; or

      (b) Include in the person’s written motion requesting the change the person’s current mailing address, to which the court may send notice of the new date for the hearing if the motion is granted.

      (3) In any proceeding that involves the interstate placement of a child or ward, the court may:

      (a) Permit a party from outside this state to provide information, testify or otherwise participate in the proceeding in any manner the court designates, provided the party complies with subsection (1) of this section, if applicable;

      (b) Permit an attorney from outside this state representing any party to participate in the proceeding in any manner the court designates; and

      (c) Obtain information or testimony in any manner the court designates from a state or private agency located in another state.

      (4)(a) Notwithstanding subsections (1) and (3) of this section, a party to a proceeding involving an Indian child may move the court to permit the party or any witness for the moving party to participate remotely or to provide remote location testimony.

      (b) Subject to ORS 45.400, the court may allow the moving party or a witness for the moving party to give remote location testimony.

      (c) If the moving party will not be providing testimony and if facilities are available that would permit the moving party to participate remotely, the court shall allow the moving party to participate remotely.

      (d) As used in this subsection:

      (A) “Participate remotely” means to participate, other than by testifying, from a physical location outside of the courtroom of record via simultaneous electronic transmission.

      (B) “Remote location testimony” has the meaning given that term in ORS 45.400.

      (C) “Simultaneous electronic transmission” means television, telephone or any other form of electronic communication transmission if the form of transmission allows the court, the attorneys and the party participating remotely to communicate with each other during the proceeding. [2003 c.205 §13 (enacted in lieu of 419B.917); 2007 c.497 §9; 2007 c.611 §10; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §42]

 

      419B.920 New hearings. If it appears to the court that a person required to be summoned under ORS 419B.812 to 419B.839 was not served as required by ORS 419B.812 to 419B.839 or was served on such short notice that the person did not have a reasonable opportunity to appear at the time fixed, upon motion of the person, the court shall reopen the case for full consideration. A motion for a new hearing must be made not later than 10 days after entry of the order for which a new hearing is sought. [2001 c.622 §32]

 

      419B.923 Modifying or setting aside order or judgment. (1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, on motion and such notice and hearing as the court may direct, the court may modify or set aside any order or judgment made by it. Reasons for modifying or setting aside an order or judgment include, but are not limited to:

      (a) Clerical mistakes in judgments, orders or other parts of the record and errors in the order or judgment arising from oversight or omission. These mistakes and errors may be corrected by the court at any time on its own motion or on the motion of a party and after notice as the court orders to all parties who have appeared. During the pendency of an appeal, an order or judgment may be corrected as provided in subsection (7) of this section.

      (b) Excusable neglect.

      (c) Newly discovered evidence that by due diligence could not have been discovered in time to present it at the hearing from which the order or judgment issued.

      (2) A motion to modify or set aside an order or judgment or request a new hearing must be accompanied by an affidavit that states with reasonable particularity the facts and legal basis for the motion.

      (3) A motion to modify or set aside an order or judgment must be made within a reasonable time except no order or judgment pursuant to ORS 419B.527 may be set aside or modified during the pendency of a proceeding for the adoption of the ward, nor after a petition for adoption has been granted.

      (4) Except as provided in subsection (6) of this section, notice and a hearing as provided in ORS 419B.195, 419B.198, 419B.201, 419B.205, 419B.208, 419B.310, 419B.325 and 419B.893 must be provided in any case when the effect of modifying or setting aside the order or judgment will or may be to deprive a parent of the legal custody of the child or ward, to place the child or ward in an institution or agency or to transfer the child or ward from one institution or agency to another. The provisions of this subsection do not apply to a parent whose rights have been terminated under ORS 419B.500 to 419B.524 or whose child has been permanently committed by order or judgment of the court unless an appeal from the order or judgment is pending.

      (5) When the person giving notice has reason to know, as described in ORS 419B.636, that an Indian child is involved, notice must be provided as required under ORS 419B.639.

      (6) Except when the child or ward is an Indian child, notice and a hearing are not required when the effect of modifying or setting aside the order or judgment will be to transfer the child or ward from one foster home to another.

      (7) A motion under subsection (1) of this section may be filed with and decided by the trial court during the time an appeal from a judgment is pending before an appellate court. The moving party shall serve a copy of the motion on the appellate court. The moving party shall file a copy of the trial court’s order or judgment in the appellate court within seven days of the date of the trial court order or judgment. Any necessary modification of the appeal required by the court order or judgment must be pursuant to rule of the appellate court.

      (8) This section does not limit the inherent power of a court to modify an order or judgment within a reasonable time or the power of a court to set aside an order or judgment for fraud upon the court. [2001 c.622 §33; 2003 c.396 §97; 2020 s.s.1 c.14 §60; 2021 c.398 §77]

 

      419B.926 Stay of order or judgment pending appeal. (1) On its own motion or on the motion of a party, the court may stay the effect of any order or judgment made by it pending appeal as provided in ORS 19.335, 19.340 and 19.350 or other provision of law.

      (2) This section does not limit the right of a party to a stay otherwise provided for by law. [2001 c.622 §34]

 

      419B.929 Enforcement of certain orders and judgments. A court may enforce an order or judgment directing a party to perform a specific act by punishing the party refusing or neglecting to comply with the order or judgment, as for a contempt as provided in ORS 33.015 to 33.155. [2001 c.622 §35]

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

      419B.950 Educational program regarding federal and state adoption and child welfare laws; establishment; purpose. The State Court Administrator shall establish a statewide program to educate judges who hear dependency cases under ORS chapter 419B about federal and state adoption and child welfare laws. The program shall include continuing legal education concerning changes in federal and state laws. The purpose of the program is to ensure that judges are knowledgeable about current adoption and child welfare laws, so that they may make decisions as to the best interests of a child. To that end, the State Court Administrator shall:

      (1) Establish a program administering continuing legal education for judges who hear dependency cases under ORS chapter 419B.

      (2) Conduct seminars for judges who hear dependency cases under ORS chapter 419B.

      (3) Identify family law resources in the public and private sectors to administer continuing legal education on current adoption and child welfare laws. [1997 c.593 §1]

 

      Note: 419B.950 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 419B or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

 

      419B.953 Training and continuing education for caseworkers. (1) The Department of Human Services shall, in consultation with the Department of Justice, develop and implement a training and continuing education curriculum for persons who are employed by the Department of Human Services as caseworkers that informs and instructs caseworkers about their roles in juvenile dependency proceedings for children and wards whose matters the caseworkers have responsibility for or for whom the caseworker provides services.

      (2) The curriculum shall include instruction and materials presented by Department of Justice attorneys with expertise in juvenile dependency proceedings. The curriculum shall, in particular, address circumstances under which a caseworker may be engaging in the unlicensed practice of law and shall describe the parameters of the role that a caseworker may play in courtroom proceedings.

      (3) The Department of Human Services shall require caseworkers to participate in continuing education at least once every four years that updates caseworkers on their roles in juvenile dependency proceedings. [2017 c.159 §1]

 

      Note: 419B.953 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 419B or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

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