(Revision. 10/1/15)
AS 47.10 Children in Need of Aid
Protective Services Specialists (PSS) will appear for court on time, appropriately dressed in conformance with local standards, and prepared for the hearing. PSS will conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner at all times and bring all legal concerns to the attention of their supervisor and AAG. If the assigned PSS will not be available to attend the hearing, the PSS will ensure that another PSS will cover the hearing and that the covering PSS is adequately prepared.
Occasionally, especially on weekend days and holidays, a PSS may be called upon to appear in court without benefit of an attorney. In such cases, the PSS may be expected to present evidence by testifying and explaining to the court the action recommended at the time and by identifying for the court others who can testify to important facts. The PSS should always address the court, opposing parties, and witnesses with respect. If the PSS believes the judge has made an incorrect finding or ruling, the matter should immediately be brought to the attention of the PSS IV and AAG to be evaluated for possible appeal. The PSS should never argue with the judge during the court hearing. The PSS may ask for a brief recess to consult with the PSS’s supervisor or AAG by telephone.
Hearings of all types are often continued to a later date for many reasons. PSSs must be prepared to proceed as scheduled but should be aware that the issues to be addressed at any given hearing may not be resolved at a single hearing time.
The PSS must not have contact with the judge outside a court hearing on the merits of any case.