Pre-petition Legal Representation Survey Report

There is growing awareness across the nation of the value of pre-petition legal representation for families, which can encourage stability, promote safety, and prevent the need for child welfare involvement. In partnership with the Texas Indigent Defense Commission, the Children’s Commission Legal Representation Committee developed a survey to gather information about the availability and need for pre-petition legal representation in Texas. A summary of the survey results is now available. 

The Pre-petition Legal Representation Survey Report includes key insights from a representative sample of legal and child welfare professionals throughout Texas. Survey responses identified navigating DFPS investigations as the greatest need for pre-petition legal representation. Although the survey revealed strong support for developing these services, concerns related to cost, attorney capacity, and structural clarity must be addressed for broader implementation.

The full report is available on the Children’s Commission website.

Caregiver Notice Roundtable Report

In partnership with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, the Children’s Commission hosted a Roundtable Meeting to discuss Notice and Engagement of Caregivers in Child Welfare Court Hearings on November 17, 2025 in Austin, Texas. The roundtable meeting brought together individuals with subject matter expertise to address challenges, strengths, and opportunities for improvement. A report is now available that includes an overview of the roundtable discussion as well as recommendations.

The roundtable built on the findings from the federal Child and Family Services Review, further explored current practices and barriers, and revealed innovative approaches to ensure caregivers are routinely notified of court hearings and of their opportunity to be heard.

The full report is available on the Children’s Commission website.

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For a complete list of Resource Letters, please visit the Children's Commission webpage. Information provided by the Children’s Commission should not be read as a commentary by the Supreme Court of Texas or any other court. The Children’s Commission website is not equipped to facilitate dialogue or conversation about matters related to the information in this communique. For more information about the Children’s Commission, please visit our website.

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