15-11-220. Required findings after placement in qualified residential treatment program; documentation.

Within 60 days of the start of a child’s placement in a qualified residential treatment program, the court must:#

1. (1)

   Consider the assessment required by Code Section 15-11-219 determination, and documentation made by the qualified individual in approving the placement;#

2. (2)

   Determine whether the needs of the child can be met through placement in a foster family home or, if not, whether placement of the child in a qualified residential treatment program provides the most effective and appropriate level of care for the child in the least restrictive environment;#

3. (3)

   Determine whether placement in a qualified residential treatment program is consistent with the short-term and long-term goals for the child, as specified in the permanency plan for the child;#

4. (4)

   Determine whether it is in the best interest of the child to be placed in a qualified residential treatment program and whether, for that reason, it is not in the best interest of the child or the child’s siblings to be placed together; and#

5. (5)

   Approve or disapprove the qualified residential treatment program placement by entering written findings of fact on the record. Placement or a change of legal custody by the court outside DFCS shall relieve DFCS of further responsibility for a child adjudicated as a dependent child except for any provision of services ordered by the court to ensure the continuation of reunification services to such child’s family when appropriate.#

Documentation of the determination and approval or disapproval of the placement in a qualified residential treatment program by the court shall be included in and made part of the case plan for the child.#