System

This training will provide DSS, OID, and GAL attorneys and DSS and GAL staff with on overview of the background and use of the Pre-Merits Hearing Conference (PMHC) protocol and procedures being added into the practice of DSS foster care cases in the South Carolina family court system. The goal of the PMHC is to expedite the completion of merits hearings and the possible return of children in foster care to their families. Attendees will be able to: 1) recognize that children in foster care have poorer outcomes than children who remain in their home or in the home of a kinship care provider, 2) differentiate between safety concerns that prevent a child from remaining in their home versus risk concerns for a child, 3) understand the purpose of the Pre-Merits Conference, and 4) demonstrate the ability to conduct a PMHC. This live webinar event for the above-mentioned DSS staff and family court attorneys is being offered on four dates for different designated regions. Attendees are strongly encouraged to attend on the date the webinar is being conducted for the region in which they work, as there could be discussions that relate to practices in your counties and limited registration spots require us to prioritize admission to those in the corresponding region over those from other regions. However, if someone is unable to attend the webinar on the date it is being conducted for their county, they can register for another date subject to space limitations. The webinars will also be recorded for those unable to attend the live event. There is no charge for this training.