20 years ago, I represented my first client in Juvenile Court. She was an alcoholic who was not meeting the needs of her child. After a year of helping her in the legal system, helping her attempt sobriety, and helping her find programs to support her, she was no better and lost her child permanently.
5 years ago, after much experience, I represented a mother who was addicted to heroin. After a year of helping her in the court system, helping her attempt sobriety, and helping her find programs to support her, she was well on her way to long-term sobriety. She has her child back and is done with DCF.
What was the difference? Experience. And undergoing the training and education required to be a Certified Child Welfare Law Specialist (CWLS). Connecticut is one of the top ranked states for protecting the rights of children and families. As one of the first lawyers in the State certified as a CWLS, I am incredibly proud of that.
Below is an infographic on the tortured history of children and family rights in the U.S, and how CT ranks.
Thomas Babson Kane is an attorney in Glastonbury, CT, specializing in Estate Planning and Real Estate law.