Our Services

The Justin James McCarrell Children’s Legal Advocacy Center exists to provide high quality legal services to children who are the subject of child abuse, neglect, or juvenile delinquency proceedings. The Center will also assist children by advocating for necessary services in educational settings as well as disability services such as SSI and Medicaid.

Each location of the JJMCLAC offers the following services:

Placeholder

Direct Legal Services

Once the Juvenile Court Judge assigns the JJMCLAC to your case, they will adopt a holistic approach to assess the child's entire history. This will involve a licensed attorney with expertise in children's legal matters, supported by a licensed social worker responsible for any necessary assessments. These steps are crucial for the team to grasp the full range of experiences that have contributed to the case's current situation. Additionally, a paralegal will compile all historical records of the child's life, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the child's background for both the team and the court.

Consultant Services

While the JJMCLAC wishes it could be involved in every child's case, its capacity is limited. Nevertheless, the Center is always available to consult with any attorney who has been hired or appointed to represent a child in Juvenile Court proceedings. In such cases, our attorney will collaborate with (except during court appearances) the attorney of record to ensure a thorough investigation of the case. Additionally, if an assessment of the child or their family is necessary, the JJMCLAC's social worker will conduct these assessments and prepare a report for the attorney of record for use in court proceedings.

Policy Advocates

The founders, board members, and staff of the JJMCLAC acknowledge the necessity of pragmatic policy reforms at local, state, and federal levels. Adhering to non-profit regulations, we aim to inform policymakers about the required changes in child dependency and juvenile delinquency laws, with a particular focus on child representation. Additionally, we will raise public awareness of ongoing policy discussions, without expressing any specific preferences, in the following areas:

- Within the local communities we serve

- At the state level in Montgomery

- On a national scale in Washington D.C.

Education Services

The JJMCLAC will be an available resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about the child welfare system, as well as providing training to groups who are designated according to the mandatory reporting requirements of Title 26, Chapter 14 as mandated reporters. Often times it is confusing as to who is required and who isn’t. A good rule of thumb is, if you truly suspect a child is in danger from abuse or neglect, report it.