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Court can be hard to understand and difficult to navigate for everyone involved. How does a case progress? Can a foster parent attend court dates for biological parents? Should they? Thankfully, I have an expert with me to help explain what happens at court from the lens of someone who is there every day–a judge.
I have the honor of speaking with Judge Brian Goldrick. He has been a part of the Child Protection Division of the court in McLean County for over 32 years. Judge Goldrick started in 1992 as an Assistant Public Defender, then served as the Contract Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) before becoming an Associate Circuit Judge.
In this episode, you’ll hear the process of a case through court, what rights foster parents have, how such weighty decisions are made, and much more. Listen in!
TAKEAWAYS FROM TODAY’S CONVERSATION:
1. Foster parents can and should attend court when possible.
Many foster parents don’t realize that they have a right to attend court dates for the case. This is a great way to understand the complexities of the case and status updates. It is not a requirement and foster parents may choose not to attend because of life circumstances, but it is one of the best ways to receive updated information.
“I think it’s beneficial for foster parents to attend.”
2. We are all on the same team.
That team is the child’s. At its core, everyone from attorneys, judges, foster parents, biological parents, and more are all seeking to do what is in the best interest of the child or children. While we may disagree on what the best course of action is, our hearts are all looking to do what is best for the children.
“We are all trying to look out for their children and we are hoping the parents will get back on track in life so that they can have their children back.”
3. Each situation and case is unique.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every decision should be tailored toward the unique circumstances a family is in and the unique needs of their children. As a judge, the advice and decision should consider all the factors for that case.
“Every child in my eyes is unique. Every family is unique. There is no cookie-cutter solution to any case.”
Meet Our Guest
Judge Brian Goldrick is an Associate Circuit Judge in McLean County. He has been a part of the Child Protection Division of the court in McLean County for over 32 years. Judge Goldrick started in 1992 as an Assistant Public Defender, then served as the Contract Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) before becoming an Associate Circuit Judge. He has been married to his wife, Kim, for over 32 years and they have two adult children together.
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