What is the primary purpose of a judicial review?

The primary purpose of a judicial review, particularly in the context of child welfare, is to assess the child's status and the parents' progress on case goals. This process is integral to ensuring that the child's best interests are being prioritized and that parents are making the necessary efforts to meet the conditions established by the court. During a judicial review, a judge examines reports from social services, evidence of compliance with court orders, and overall family dynamics to make informed decisions about the ongoing welfare of the child.

In this setting, the judicial review acts as a critical checkpoint to evaluate progress and can influence future case decisions, including the potential for reunification of the family or the need for continued intervention. It is designed to ensure accountability and monitor the effectiveness of the services provided to the family, which ultimately supports the child's well-being.

The other options, while relevant to the legal processes surrounding child welfare, do not capture the essence of the judicial review's focus on assessing progress and status. Legal representation, filing complaints, and establishing court dates are important aspects of the judicial system, but they do not pertain to the specific evaluative function of a judicial review.