Eligibility
The JCP Process
All applicants seeking representation are required to complete the intake process. The JCP intake process consists of filling out an Application for Representation, providing proof of household income and participating in an intake interview. Incarcerated applicants must complete a Modified Application for Representation.
Basic Requirements:
Be A biological pARENT, adoptive parent Or LEGAL cUSTODIAN
You may also be someone who’s care and control of a child is at question in a dependency petition.
Court active dependency or termination of rights
You must have a court active dependency or termination of parental rights case in Allegheny County.
HOUSEHOLD INCOME ASSESSMENT
Your household income must fall within income guidelines established for civil legal aid for low-income Americans. The financial circumstances for all applicants are individually assessed.
Intake Hours & Location:
The JCP also conducts Intake Monday through Friday at its office located in the Kopper’s Building. The intake hours are as follows:
- Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays:
9:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m. (NOON) - Tuesdays & Thursdays:
1:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m.
Intake is not complete until the applicant provides proof of income and attends an Intake Orientation session which may occur in person, by phone or by virtual meeting.
What To Bring:
- Proof of household income, e.g. DPW & SSI printouts, pay stubs, W-2 forms, and child support orders.
- Any paperwork concerning your case, e.g. notices of hearing dates, reports prepared by your OCYFS caseworker, family court orders, etc.
- Names and telephone numbers of potential witnesses, e.g. doctors, therapists, school officials, housing authority officials, probation officers, service providers, etc.
The JCP may conduct intake via telephone, mail, or email when an applicant is unable to come to the JCP office or when coming to the JCP office would present a considerable hardship for the applicant. Such situations would include, but are not necessarily limited to:
- Applicants who are incarcerated.
- Applicants who are in an inpatient treatment program.
- Applicants who live out of state.
- Applicants who are medically frail.
Need Assistance Or Have Questions?
Contact us directly for personal guidance.
Juvenile court project
KOPPERS BUILDING Floor 11
436 SEVENTH AVENUE PITTSBURGH, PA 15219
Ready To Get Started?
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