This course examines the impact of family and juvenile law on parents and children and its interaction with social work. The statutes, regulations, and case law that define the rights, responsibilities, and relationships of parents and children under our legal system will form the framework for the course. The course covers the public policies that have influenced recent changes in delinquency law and the law on abuse and neglect and that may lead to new legislation regarding custody, visitation, and parentage. In addition, the course considers the role of the social worker with respect to family and juvenile law as the provider of both direct services to children and families and guidance to the courts; and as an advocate for laws to promote the interests of parents and children.