The Social Study is a statutorily mandated report to the Superior Court for Juvenile Matters.  It summarizes important information in the case record, which will be used to support a disposition in the best interest of the child.  The Social Study varies in content depending on the petition with which it is submitted, but some of the common elements are as follows: 

·          demographic information regarding the child, siblings and parent(s)

·          history of the case prior to filing the petition/motion

·          reasons for the petition/motion

·          family history

·          planning for independence, if age appropriate

·          relative resources

·          religion

·          services offered by other agencies

·          present situation

·          reasonable efforts, and

The Social Study is submitted in conjunction with the following, as appropriate, no later than three days before the first scheduled court date: 

·          Neglect petition

·          Termination of Parental Rights petition

·          Coterminous petition

·          Motion for Review of Permanency Plan (submit with motion)

·          Motion to Maintain Commitment (submit with motion)

·          Motion to Transfer Guardianship (submit with motion)

The format for the Social Study varies depending on the type of petition or motion filed.  Refer to appropriate sections in this chapter specific to the petitions and motions for the relevant format.