American Bar Association.

Keywords: Best Practices; Child Welfare; Courts; Judges; Legal Advocacy 

The reality is the statistics and stories are mostly grim for LGBTQ youth in foster care. Whether they enter foster care because their parents reject them due to their LGBTQ status or they disclose their LGBTQ status while in foster care, LGBTQ youth in foster care face discrimination, harassment, and violence because of their sexuality or gender identity. Lawyers and judges can help change these statistics. Lawyers who develop relationships with LGBTQ clients and provide appropriate representation can make a difference for these youth. Judges who ask the right questions and insist on appropriate services and fair and respectful treatment can protect this vulnerable population and help them become successful adults. This resource offers guidance to these professionals.

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Opening Doors for LGBTQ Youth in Foster Care: A Guide for Lawyers and Judges