Children, Youth, and Families

Child

An individual whose custody has been transferred to the county agency under 42 Pa. C.S. 6301-6365 or whom the agency has otherwise accepted for service and who:

1. Is under the age of 18 years.
2. Is under the age of 21 years who committed an act of delinquency before reaching the age of 18 years.
3. Is under the age of 21 years who was adjudicated dependent before reaching the age of 18 years and while engaged in a course of instruction or treatment requests the court to retain jurisdiction until the course has been completed.

Custodian

A person other than a parent or legal guardian who stands in loco parentis of the child, or a person to whom legal custody of the child has been given by order of a court.

Family Members

Spouses, parents and children or other related persons. The term does not include foster parents, foster children, and paramours.

Kin

An individual 21 years of age or older who is a godparent, member of child's tribe, or has a significant, positive relationship with the child or family.

Mandated Reporter

Individual required by law to report suspected child abuse or neglect.

Parent

Biological parent, adoptive parent, or legal guardian.

Participant

A person named or actively involved in a referral/case.