A Guide for System-Involved Youth
Hi there,
If you are reading this, you may be involved in the foster care system, the juvenile justice system, or sometimes both. Being part of these systems can feel confusing, especially when you are hearing new terms and trying to understand how everything works.
You might hear words like court hearings, case plans, probation, or case managers. At times, it may feel like there are many people involved and many decisions being made. It can be difficult to know what everything means or what role each person plays.
This guide was created by young people who have experienced these systems themselves. It was designed to help clarify things and remind you that you are not alone in navigating this process. Inside this guide, you will find information about who may be on your team, who you can contact if you need help, advice from young people who have been through similar experiences, and tips that can help you
advocate for yourself along the way.
Most importantly, remember that your voice matters and deserves to be heard!
-Philly Defenders Youth Action Board-
All Legal Team members are bound by confidentiality. Want to write down your team members? Download this guide.
Dependency Team
- Child Advocate Attorney: Represents your wishes and advocates in court for what you want.
- Child Advocate Social Service: Helps identify your needs and supports your goals.
- Peer Advocate: Provides support and guidance. This is a voluntary service
Juvenile Defense Team
- Defense Attorney: Represents you in court and speaks on your behalf
- Juvenile Social Services: Connects you to programs and community support
Mandated Reporter*
*Some team members must report safety concerns to protect youth.
- Probation Officer: Monitors your compliance with court orders
- CUA Case Manager/Supervisor: Your direct worker, who coordinates services, ensures safety, and may testify in court.
Personal Supports (Family & Friends)
- Family Member
- Trusted Adult
- Mentor
- Friend
Legal Support
- Philly Defenders – 215-568-3190
- Support Center for Child Advocates -267-546-9200
Housing & Youth Support
- Valley Youth House – 215-925-3180
- Covenant House Pennsylvania – 215-951-5411
- Achieving Independence Center – 215-574-9194
Crisis Support
- Suicide Prevention Hotline – Call or Text 988
- Non-Emergency City Services – Dial 311
Complaints or Concerns
- DHS Commissioner Action Response Office – dhscaro@phila.gov
215-683-6000 - Office of Youth Ombudsperson – Tracie Johnson: tracie.johnson@phila.gov
215-685-6061
Be Open To Change
You are an advocate too; use your voice
You can request to speak to a judge privately in their chambers
Don’t doubt your intuition; your experience matters
Your Voice Has Power, even if you feel it doesn’t
Give yourself flowers! you work hard
This is a chapter of your story, not the end
Give yourself Grace
Saying “NO” is a survival skill
Believe in your goals, even when others can’t see them yet
Never lose HOPE, it is your superpower
Always ask questions, because if you don’t, the answer’s always no
Don’t forget, your team works for you!
Keep track of all court dates and meetings, so you can speak about your needs the best
What You Can Do:
- Ask clarifying questions, so you can better understand what is happening around you.
- You can speak to your attorney BEFORE court to best understand what can happen at your hearing.
- Keep a paper trail, if it wasn’t written down, it wasn’t said.
Remember:
- Don’t forget the chain of command; everyone has a supervisor.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for a new worker if the current one is not working out for you.
- To make sure you have access to all of your vital documents before aging out.
- You have the right to have your religious and personal boundaries respected.
We invite you to download and print this guide. It’s yours! Keep it with you during appointments and feel free to write notes and phone numbers directly on the guide.
Download the Guide Here
