§6.06 Social Worker’s Report

The social worker’s report must be filed with the court and given to the parents or guardian, minor's counsel, or CASA volunteer at least 10 days before the hearing. [WIC §366.21(c); CRC 5.710(c), 5.715(b), 5.720(b).] If the child was removed from parental custody, the social worker must also provide a summary of his or her report at least 10 days before the hearing to any foster parents, relative caregivers, preadoptive parents, nonrelative extended family members, or foster family agency with physical custody of the child. [WIC §366.21(c); CRC 5.534(n), 5.710(c), 5.715(b), 5.720(b); see form JV-290.] Different service procedures apply to supplemental reports in Los Angeles County. [See WIC §366.05.]

Social study reports are admissible at review hearings without having the preparer available for cross-examination. [See In re Matthew P. (1999) 71 CA4th 841, 849 fn 3.] Nevertheless, general principles of due process apply, which may include the parent’s right to call the social worker for cross-examination or otherwise challenge the material in the report. [See In re Jeanette V. (1998) 68 CA4th 811, 816.]