In the fall of 2024, the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) mailed letters to parents who once had an open dependency and/or severance case.
Did you receive a letter? Visit the DCS letter page for more information.
What if I have custody of a child that I want to adopt, but am not certified?
If you currently have or will be given custody of a child that you intend to adopt, but are not certified you must file for temporary custody of the child. The temporary custody order must be filed no more than 5 days after you received custody of the child. A hearing at the Superior Court where you file will be held within 10 days to determine what is in the best interest of the child. If the court grants your temporary custody order, you will then begin the certification process.
Resources
Arizona State Statute - A.R.S. § 8-105
Arizona State Statute - A.R.S. § 36-1681