The Family Systems Collaborative partners with legal professionals to strengthen any advocacy that might impact a child. This is done through trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate consultation. Our legally educated social workers bring expertise in child development, family systems, and legal process to support ethical, effective advocacy. This interdisciplinary approach promotes faster permanency, preserves family connections, and centers children's voices — ensuring advocacy is not only competent, but compassionate and just.
Partnership Fees
We use a modest, sliding partnership fee ($150–$350/month) to sustain high-quality, child-focused advocacy. Families and children always receive services at no cost. Learn more here. Please refer to the FAQ page for further information about why nonprofits can charge a partnership fee.
Case Consultation & Advocacy
We strengthen child advocacy alongside attorneys by integrating child development and trauma knowledge into legal strategy. Our approach supports ethical, developmentally appropriate advocacy at every stage of a case.
Child-Centered Assessments
We conduct child interviews to elevate children's voices, translating developmental needs into actionable case insights. We identify barriers to safety, permanency, and stability so legal teams can advocate more effectively.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
We bridge legal, social work, mental health, and education systems — joining family team meetings, mediations, and hearings to support professionals in cross-system communication.
Training & Professional Development
We deliver trainings for attorneys, caseworkers, and judges, creating practical tools and publications that promote anti-oppressive, trauma-informed practices.
Systems Change & Leadership
We advocate for reforms in child advocacy, modeling what thoughtful, high-quality advocacy looks like in every engagement and contributing to national conversations on child advocacy standards.