When DHR becomes involved in your life, things move fast, and for too many parents, things also move in secret. One day you’re told a case is open, and the next, your child is placed elsewhere without you even knowing a court date was set.

Let’s be clear. That is not legal.

You have the right to know when hearings are happening, what will be discussed, and how you can participate.

What the Law Says

According to Alabama Code § 12-15-307:

“A parent, legal guardian, or legal custodian of a child who is alleged to be dependent, delinquent, or in need of supervision shall be given notice of the date, time, and place of any juvenile court proceeding.”

In plain language, this means the state must tell you ahead of time when court hearings are scheduled about your child. Not after. Not during. Before.

And not just once. Every time there is a hearing, you have a right to know.

Real Story: They Showed Up, But I Never Got to Speak

Let’s take a real-world example from a mother named Amber (name changed for privacy):

“I found out from a family friend that court had already happened, and I wasn’t there. I called DHR, and they said I was ‘not in compliance’ for missing court, but nobody ever told me when it was. I didn’t even get a letter. They had already made decisions about my child, and I never got a chance to speak.”

Amber’s story is not rare. Hundreds of parents across Alabama are skipped, sidelined, or blamed for not showing up when they were never notified in the first place.

That is a violation of your due process rights.

What You’re Entitled To

• Advance notice of every court hearing.
• Information about what the hearing is about.
• The date, time, and location of the hearing.
• The right to be present and to speak.
• The right to have an attorney with you.

Red Flags to Watch For

• You find out a hearing happened after it took place.
• You never received anything in writing (or they sent it to the wrong address).
• DHR tells you the date “changed” but never gives a new one.
• You are told your “presence is not required” even though your child’s future is being decided.

What You Can Do

1. Request Written Notice
   Tell DHR and the court clerk in writing that you require all court notices to be mailed and emailed to you.
2. Update Your Address
   If you’ve moved, even recently, submit a signed form updating your contact info with the court and DHR.
3. Get a Court Calendar Printout
   Ask the clerk of court for a list of upcoming scheduled hearings related to your case.
4. Call and Confirm
   Don’t rely on DHR alone. Call the juvenile court clerk directly to confirm your court dates.
5. Document Everything
   If you aren’t told about a hearing or receive notice too late, write it down. Save the envelope. Take a picture. Ask your attorney to object in court.

Remember This

You cannot fight for your child if you don’t even know when the fight is happening. Being left out is not your fault. It is a tactic. And it’s one you have the power to expose.

Policy Reference:
Alabama Code § 12-15-307 – Right to Notice and Hearing
Alabama Rules of Juvenile Procedure – Rule 13

You have the right to show up, to speak up, and to be part of every decision about your child. If they tried to shut you out, it’s time to push back.

“If you weren’t notified of a hearing, tell your story. Send it to us privately or email contact@familiesvsdhr.org.”