Susan is a nine year old victim of sexual abuse. While her mother did not actually molest her, she failed to protect Susan from the abuse because she knew or should have known of the abuse while it was occurring. Susan mother recently faced allegations of dependency at trial where Susan was adjudicated dependent.

Questions:

1. What is the proof requirement in order for a child to be adjudicated dependent pursuant to Chapter 39 of the Florida Statutes? What are the most significant dispositional alternatives found in Chapter 39 and how do they differ from one another? Why are older foster children more difficult to place post adjudication of dependency than younger children?

2. Since Susan was adjudicated dependent, would there have to be a case plan prepared for her and what might the "tasks" be for this case plan? What legal proceeding brings dependent children before the court for a regular review of their case? Are Citizen Review Panels a meaningful way to evaluate a child's progress through the dependency system?

3. Does Florida law provide for the appointment of counsel in dependency cases and if so, when and why?