The CINC program provides free legal representation to Louisiana children in foster care.

Background

In 2007, the Task Force of the Legal Representation in Child Protection Cases began the implementation of an approved five-year plan for the systemic statewide reform of the existing ad hoc appointment system of legal representation for children in need of care and their indigent parents, which has been funded through the Department of Social Services. Legislation has been enacted to transfer responsibility for legal representation services to the Louisiana Child Advocacy Program.

Through a partnership with the Louisiana Bar Foundation, Louisiana Mental Health Advocacy Services the Louisiana Public Defender Board, services are provided to children and parents in all CINC cases throughout Louisiana under the guidelines of the Louisiana Child Advocacy Program.

How the LBF got Involved

The Task Force found that the Louisiana Bar Foundation shares a common mission and has the local and state infrastructure in place to effectively oversee the provision of child representation. In 2009, the LBF was invited to participate in the Task Force.

The LBF's Role

Effective December 1, 2009 and through agreements with the four legal services corporations, the LBF serves as the administrator for the State of Louisiana, DDS and the Louisiana Supreme Court for the Louisiana Child Advocacy Program. As administrator, the LBF provides governance and oversight of the funds and ensures program and financial compliance. Annually, $1.5 million is provided to the LBF which is subgranted for CINC services to the four legal services corporations: Acadiana Legal Services, Capital Area Legal Services, Legal Services of North Louisiana and Southeast Louisiana Legal Services.

LBF CINC Grants since 2009

Acadiana Legal Services $981,102

Capital Area Legal Services $399,671

Legal Services of North Louisiana $580,672

Southeast Louisiana Legal Services $410,097