Plain-language dictionary / Kentucky
Look up DCBS SOP codes, forms, statutes, and court words. Read the source reference first, then the everyday explanation.
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92 entries available. JavaScript enables live filtering; all entries are readable below.
Court motion, financial affidavit, and proposed order for proceeding without payment of costs.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask the court to waive costs using financial information. Approval is not automatic.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDocument identified in the official forms directory; use its current instructions and full text.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A report used for the disposition stage. Ask how and when you can receive and address a filed report.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDocument identified in the official forms directory; use its current instructions and full text.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Identifies people for hearing notice; confirm the addresses and filing instructions.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryAuthorization used in the CHFS protected-record disclosure process.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
This is used for protected records. Follow the official instructions about identity and authority; do not upload ID or case files to KCJT.
Official CHFS form, posted revision 11/2021 · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryInformation-release document listed by CHFS; see SOP G1.18 for the agency’s consent procedure.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Read the records, recipients, purpose, and expiration before signing.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entrySupplemental release referenced in SOP G1.18.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Check what extra information the supplement adds.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDocument identified in the official forms directory; use its current instructions and full text.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask which treatment decisions are covered and who can authorize them.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDocument identified in the official forms directory; use its current instructions and full text.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask how possible relatives are being identified and assessed.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDocument identified in the official forms directory; use its current instructions and full text.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask what home or placement checks are documented.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryPosted family case-plan form, including tasks, review material, and signature sections.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
The plan sets goals and tasks. Read the signature page: a signature can indicate understanding and agreement, not just attendance. Ask for the full approved copy.
Official posted form; Rev. 9/19, verify the version you receive · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDocument identified in the official forms directory; use its current instructions and full text.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Look for the finding, stated basis, and appeal instructions.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDocument identified in the official forms directory; use its current instructions and full text.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Read the exact finding and whether other services or proceedings remain.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryProtection and Permanency service-appeal form linked by the Ombudsman office.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Use the service-appeal instructions for an eligible service dispute. This is different from challenging an investigation finding.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDocument identified in the official forms directory; use its current instructions and full text.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Read the proposed action, effective date, and review instructions.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryForm for requesting appeal of a child abuse or neglect investigative finding.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Use the finding-appeal instructions and check the deadline on the notice. A general complaint is not the same appeal.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDocument identified in the official forms directory; use its current instructions and full text.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask which care arrangement, services, and responsibilities each option involves.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDocument identified in the official forms directory; use its current instructions and full text.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Read the caregiver duties and placement conditions before agreeing.
Official form directory; confirm the current document · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryBest-interests framework with a rebuttable joint-custody/equal-time presumption and statutory qualifications.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
The court considers the child’s welfare. Equal time is a legal starting point in qualifying cases, not an automatic result. The current law includes special consideration of domestic violence and child abuse.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryRules for a custody investigation/report under this section, including disclosure of the report and underlying material.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
If this section applies, ask about receiving the report and questioning the investigator. It does not automatically cover every therapist note or GAL statement.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryStatutory exceptions and presumptions concerning domestic violence, custody, and unsupervised visitation.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Domestic violence can change the usual custody starting point. Specific orders or court findings trigger different rules. Read the conditions, not just a claim that everyone gets equal time.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryRestrictions on reducing a qualifying nonoffending parent’s custody or time solely to improve a child’s relationship with an offending parent, after specified findings.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
When the legal conditions are met, a court cannot take time away from a safe, bonded parent just to improve the child’s relationship with the abusive parent. This rule requires the findings described in the statute.
Useful question or next step: Effective July 15, 2026. Whether it applies to an event or order requires date-specific legal review.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryStandards for qualifying noncustodial-parent visitation, specific schedules, modification, and restrictions.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Changing a schedule and restricting visits are different questions. The statute allows either party to request specific scheduling terms.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryCustody-modification standards, including affidavit-based exceptions to the initial two-year restriction.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A custody change has legal requirements beyond disagreeing with the current order. Exceptions can apply within two years; it is not an absolute waiting rule.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryAffidavit and notice requirements for temporary custody or custody-modification requests.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
The request needs supporting sworn facts. Other parties can respond, and the court decides whether there is enough basis for a hearing.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryEligibility, request, inspection, and record-availability provisions of KORA.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Identify the existing records and correct custodian. Give an accurate Kentucky eligibility basis if required. A question asking why something happened is different from requesting its records.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryProvisions governing copies, electronic formats, and charges.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask for electronic copies when records are kept electronically. Paper-only records need not be scanned under this provision. Ask about charges before a chosen limit is exceeded.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryExemptions from inspection and segregation of nonexempt portions.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Some information can be withheld. Ask which exception applies and whether the rest can be released with protected details removed.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryAgency response and Attorney General review provisions.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A written decision is generally due within five working days, excluding legal holidays. That does not guarantee all documents arrive then. Keep the request and response for any records appeal.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryCircuit Court enforcement of Open Records Act rights.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A records-access lawsuit is separate from asking a custody judge to change an order. Get advice about the proper court and deadlines.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryPersonal access to public records naming or relating to the requester, subject to statutory exceptions and identification.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask for records about yourself, but expect lawful privacy limits for other people and protected information.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryConfidentiality and specified access rules for child-protection information.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A family connection does not open every record. Access depends on the legal category and protected information in the file. Getting a copy does not mean you may publish it.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C2.1 Receiving and Assigning the Report
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“before a child protective assessment or investigation begins”
Procedure for receiving and assigning a report for screening.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
An allegation is screened before the agency determines what response applies. Ask which concern is being assessed.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C2.18 Making a Finding, Notifications, and Court Involvement
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“The assessment of maltreatment should support the legal rationale”
Agency procedure for investigation findings and notifications.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A DCBS finding is an agency decision. It is not the same thing as a judge’s ruling. Read the notice and its review instructions promptly.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C2.5 Completing the CPS Intake
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“whether a report requires a CPS intervention”
Procedure for assessing whether a CPS report meets investigation or assessment criteria.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Intake is the screening stage. A report being made does not itself prove abuse or neglect.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C2.7 Initiating the Report
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“face-to-face contact with the reported victim(s)”
Procedure concerning first contact on an assigned report.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
This explains when agency contact counts as starting the response and how work across counties is handled.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C2.8 Investigation Protocol
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“Is the child in danger right now?”
Agency process for evaluating immediate safety and assessing a report and future risk.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
An investigation checks the report and child safety. Ask what is alleged, which process is being used, and what written notice or review options apply.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C4.1 CPS Safety Planning
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“Safety planning is voluntary”
Agency process for addressing an immediate safety threat through a negotiated safety plan.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A safety plan is about keeping a child safe right now. Ask what danger it addresses, what each person must do, and when it will be reviewed. A separate court order may still apply.
Useful question or next step: Ask whether this is a voluntary agency plan, a court requirement, or both. Read the complete procedure and your actual order.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C4.2 CPS Prevention Planning
Procedure for planning services when identified risks require an interim prevention response.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A prevention plan sets out steps to address risks. It is different from an emergency court order and may be used before a full case plan is developed.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C4.3 CPS Aftercare Planning
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“The aftercare plan is part of the case closure process”
Agency planning for supports and referrals around case closure.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
This explains help or follow-up around closing a case. Ask which services continue, who will provide them, and whether any court requirements remain.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C5.10 Ongoing Case Planning
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“the case plan may be modified”
Procedure for reviewing and modifying an in-home family case plan.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Plans can change when family circumstances change. Ask for a meeting, the written changes, and an updated copy instead of relying on a verbal instruction.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C5.4 Initial In Home Case Planning Conference
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“with or without the parents’ signature”
Procedure for the initial plan when a child remains in the home, including participation, approval, copies, and signatures.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask to understand each task and get the approved plan. The worker can submit it for approval even without a parent’s signature. Not signing does not automatically close the case.
Useful question or next step: Use the parents’ rights guide before deciding what to sign.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C5.6 Negotiating Objectives and Tasks
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“Required objectives differ based on the needs of the family”
Procedure for developing family and individual objectives based on assessed needs.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask what change a task is supposed to achieve and what help is available. Tell the team about work, transport, disability, or service barriers.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C6.13 Temporary Removal Hearing
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“the court determines whether there are reasonable grounds”
Agency procedure for the initial judicial review of a child’s removal or requested removal.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
This early hearing concerns whether a child should stay out of the home for now. It is not the final trial. The timing depends on how the case began and any lawful waiver.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C6.18 Emergency Custody Order (ECO)
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“to determine if the child shall be held for a longer period”
Agency procedure concerning a court’s emergency custody order and subsequent review.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
An ECO is a judge’s emergency order. Get the order and next hearing information immediately; do not treat an agency conversation as the full court record.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C6.22 Adjudication Hearing
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“whether allegations of dependency, abuse, or neglect concerning a child are true”
Trial stage for determining whether the dependency, neglect, or abuse allegations are established.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
This is where the court decides whether the allegations have been proved. Ask your lawyer about the evidence and how to respond.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C6.25 Dispositional Hearing
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“Appropriate objectives and tasks”
Procedure concerning decisions about services and arrangements after adjudication.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
After deciding the allegations, the court decides what should happen next. Read the actual written orders about services, placement, and responsibilities.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C6.27 Permanency Hearings
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“termination of parental rights (TPR) is not a permanency goal”
Procedure for judicial review of a child’s long-term placement and permanency planning.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
This hearing concerns the child’s longer-term plan. Ask which goal is being considered and what evidence the court will review.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C6.5 Appointment of Guardian Ad Litem
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“to represent the best interests of the child”
Procedure describing cooperation with the child’s court-appointed guardian ad litem.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
The child’s lawyer is not automatically your lawyer. Ask who each attorney represents.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C7.16 Preparation for and Completion of the Ten (10) Day Conference
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“with or without the parents' signatures”
Initial out-of-home case-planning conference procedure, including distribution of the approved plan.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
This is an early planning meeting after a child enters out-of-home care. Ask who is invited, what the goals are, and how you will receive the full approved plan.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C7.17 Ongoing Case Planning
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“with or without the parents’ signatures”
Procedure for updating an out-of-home case plan and documenting parental participation or lack of signatures.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
The plan should be reviewed as the case develops. Ask how progress is measured and how disagreement is recorded. The process can continue without a parent’s signature.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
C7.18 Visitation Agreement
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“the right to petition the court for review of the visitation agreement”
Procedure for arranging and reviewing family contact during out-of-home care.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask for a written schedule, who supervises, how canceled visits are recorded, and how to request review. This procedure recognizes asking the court to review an unsatisfactory agreement; an existing court order still matters.
Useful question or next step: Distinguish an agency visitation agreement from the court’s parenting-time order.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
G1.14 Limited English Proficiency (LEP)
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“Free and consistent language interpretation services”
Agency standards for language access to participate in services.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Tell the office if you need an interpreter. Ask for language help so you can understand the meeting and documents.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
G1.15 Access to Interpreters and Effective Communication for Those Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
Agency procedure for communication assistance and accommodations.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Tell the office which communication support you need, such as an interpreter or assistive device. Ask early and document the request.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
G1.18 Informed Consent and Release of Information
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“The client revokes the consent in writing”
Agency procedure addressing authorization to collect and share protected information.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A release gives permission to share specified information. Check who can send or receive it, which records are covered, the purpose, expiration, and revocation language.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOfficial heading · exact title
G1.20 CPS Open Records Request and Disclosure of Information
Selected source excerpt · read in its full context
“the agency must comply with strict confidentiality laws”
Agency procedure routing requests for CPS records and addressing protected information.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Your own CPS file uses a protected-record process. Being a parent does not make every part of the file public or allow public posting.
Agency procedure; not a statute or court order · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA statutory category involving harm or threatened harm under the circumstances enumerated in KRS 600.020(1).
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
The legal definition has specific conditions. An accusation alone does not establish that they are met.
KRS 600.020 · Short summary; read the complete definition · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA written statement sworn to be true.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Sworn facts, not just an unsigned story.
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA claim that still requires proof.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Someone says it happened; that alone is not a finding.
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA collaborative process identifying harmful conditions, needed changes, and supporting services.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask what the safety concern is, what must change, and what help the agency will provide. This is a process, not just a signature.
922 KAR 1:430 · Regulatory definition, summarized · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryPlanning for return to a parent while also preparing an alternative permanency goal.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
The agency can work on returning a child home and a backup long-term plan at the same time. Ask which goals are documented.
922 KAR 1:140 · Regulatory definition, summarized · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA postponement of a court proceeding.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask properly; the date stays unless changed.
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryAccess to case records begins with the responsible court clerk, subject to restrictions.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask the county Circuit Court Clerk about orders, case-file copies, and hearing records.
Official court-record instructions · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA request to change sole or joint custody under the governing standards.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A custody change is different from adjusting the visit schedule.
KRS 403.340 · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA separate statutory category involving improper care not caused by an intentional custodial act.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Dependency and abuse are not interchangeable labels.
KRS 600.020 · Short summary; read the complete definition · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryChild-protection proceedings under KRS Chapter 620.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
This is a child-welfare case type, not a genetic test or an ordinary custody dispute.
Statutory chapter directory · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA defined impairment of a child’s functioning, with specified professional testimony and developmental considerations.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
The statute requires more than a general statement that a child is upset.
KRS 600.020 · Short summary; read the complete definition · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryMaterial offered to establish facts.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Having a document does not guarantee the judge can consider it.
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryAn item identified for court consideration.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A document or object you want considered.
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA nonrelative with the qualifying pre-placement emotional relationship described in the statute.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A close family connection may qualify; read the criteria and placement requirements.
KRS 600.020 · Short summary; read the complete definition · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entrySupervisory role identified in DCBS procedures.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
The office supervisor who reviews specified worker actions.
Agency role abbreviation · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryCourt-appointed lawyer representing the child’s interests in the described child-protection context.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
The GAL is not automatically the parent’s attorney.
Agency explanation; appointment and case type matter · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA court’s legal authority.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Which court can decide this matter?
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryKentucky’s administrative regulations.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Agency rules adopted through the regulatory process. They differ from an agency SOP.
Official regulation directory · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryKentucky law governing access to qualifying public-agency records and its exceptions.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask for existing records the law allows you to receive. It is not a right to every document.
Kentucky statute · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryKentucky’s codified statutory law.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
State laws enacted by the legislature. Check the version and effective date.
Official legislative source · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA statutory standard limiting unnecessary intrusion while addressing protection and suitable placement.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask which alternatives were considered and why the proposed option is needed.
KRS 600.020 · Short summary; read the complete definition · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA request for a court ruling.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
You ask the judge to do something.
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryOffice providing information and handling CHFS customer complaints and administrative-review resources.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A place to raise an agency service concern. It cannot replace a judge’s order or a court appeal.
Official CHFS office page · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDCBS’s term for services when a child is in care outside the home.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
A child is living away from home; check who holds legal custody and the placement order.
Agency chapter and terminology · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA court’s direction or decision.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Read what the judge actually required.
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryTime and conditions for a child’s contact with a parent.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Read when, where, how long, and whether supervision is required.
KRS 403.320 · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA document requesting court action.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
It starts a proceeding or requests specified relief.
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryAppearing without an attorney.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
You represent yourself and still follow court rules.
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryStatutory diligence and care in using available preventive and reunification services needed for safe home living.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask which services were considered, offered, available, and documented. Whether the legal standard is met requires review.
KRS 620.020(13) · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryPerson designated to receive and handle agency records requests.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Send the request to the right official, and keep delivery proof.
KRS 61.872 · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryWithholding protected portions while disclosing nonexempt material where required.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Blackouts may protect private information. Ask for the legal reason and releasable remainder.
KRS 61.878 · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryRemedial and preventive services intended to strengthen family life and enable appropriate reunification.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Ask what each service is meant to change and how progress will be measured.
KRS 620.020(14) · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryLegally required delivery of case documents.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Other parties usually need proper notice too.
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryDCBS’s published guidance for agency work and decisions.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
An agency procedure. It is different from a statute, regulation, or judge’s order.
Official agency manual · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryStaff role used throughout the DCBS procedures.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
The worker handling identified case tasks. Ask for the current name and supervisor.
Agency role abbreviation · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryA DCBS finding supporting maltreatment under its investigation process.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Read the agency notice. This is different from a court judgment and has its own review route.
Agency finding procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryThe legally appropriate case location.
KCJT summary of the cited source; not a verbatim definition or the full procedure.
Which county should hear this case?
Archived court education booklet; vocabulary summary, not current procedure · Reviewed November 2, 2026
Read the official source in full ↗Link to this entryThis does not mean the code is invalid. Check spelling, document date, and the official directories. The tool does not invent an answer for an unreviewed code.
Open the full official libraries ↓Beyond this dictionary
KCJT’s reviewed explanations cover selected entries. The following official directories provide the publisher’s broader SOP and forms collections. No claim is made that every form, keyword, local amendment, or historical version has a KCJT explanation.
Browse the current agency manual and its chapter indexes.
DCBS documentsUse the official keyword filter. Some listings are older materials; check the version.
Court formsSearch form numbers and topics. Confirm which form and instructions fit your case.
Local court rulesFind the relevant court’s posted rules and ask about amendments.
CHFS reorganized the manual. A number without a chapter prefix can refer to an older procedure. Do not simply add “C” to it: an old number may move, split, or be archived. This tool recognizes selected mappings from the official cross-reference, labels them as historical, and links the current entry when available.
Official child/family SOP cross-reference ↗ · All reorganization guides ↗
Examples and summaries are educational. No private records are analyzed and no legal conclusions are generated from your search. The court’s archived vocabulary booklet is used only for short vocabulary summaries, not deadlines or current filing rules.