What is the primary purpose of a shelter hearing?

The primary purpose of a shelter hearing is to establish probable cause for the child’s removal from their home. This hearing takes place shortly after a child has been taken into protective custody to ensure that there is a legitimate reason for the removal. During this process, the court reviews the evidence presented, which may include testimonies from Child Protective Services and observations about the child's situation at home. The goal is to ascertain whether there are adequate grounds to keep the child out of their home for their safety and well-being.

In contrast, establishing potential reunification plans, determining criminal charges, or deciding long-term custody arrangements are not the main focus of a shelter hearing. Instead, those considerations typically occur later in the legal process, as the court looks to assess the child’s situation over time and explore suitable options for their care, including possibilities for returning them to their parents or guardians, if appropriate.