Removal Hearings Under the Indian Child Welfare Act and the Michigan Indian Family Preservation Act

Course overview

This training will address procedural and substantive requirements for the removal of Indian children in child custody proceedings under the Indian Child Welfare Act and the Michigan Indian Family Preservation Act. There will be a review of the obligations of the court, child placing agencies, and parties regarding initial inquiry, notice, the increased burden of proof, and the necessity of following ICWA/MIFPA placement preferences. The presenter will also review the role of the Qualified Expert Witness, including recent changes to the Michigan Court Rules regarding application of this testimony.