12.10.010 Authority.
(a) Where a minor’s parent/guardian/caretaker requests the assistance of the YSS because the child may be a CINA, the YSS has the authority to provide services to prevent the filing of a CINA petition and/or to accept the voluntary placement of the child with the written consent of the parent/guardian/caretaker as demonstrated by a voluntary placement agreement.
(b) The YSS, as soon as possible but no later than 14 days from when the request is made, shall hold an informal conference with at a minimum the minor’s parent/guardian/caretaker to discuss alternatives to the filing of a CINA petition if:
(1) The alleged facts that could bring the child within the case within the jurisdiction of the Court as a CINA;
(2) The informal resolution of the matter would be in the best interests of the child and the Tribe; and
(3) The child and the child parent/guardian/caretaker request services which will be provided through a case plan designed to resolve the presenting problems and prevent the filing of a CINA petition.
(4) Nothing prevents the execution of a Voluntary Placement Agreement pending the holding of the informal conference.
(c) This section does not authorize YSS to compel any person to appear at any such informal conference, produce any papers, or visit any place. Any disposition reached at an informal conference must be agreed to by all parties responsible for carrying out the disposition. However, failure to appear at the informal conference or engage in services may result in the filing of a formal CINA petition in Tribal or dependency petition in state court. [Ord. 46A § 1101, adopted, 3/24/2016.]