Certified Case Manager Practice Test

Which of the following would not require a diligent search in a judicial case?

1. Non-US parent

2. ICWA child

3. Undocumented parent

4. Relative

The correct answer is: Relative

In judicial cases, a diligent search is typically required to locate and engage family members or potential guardians when making decisions about a child's welfare. This search is guided by various considerations, including the best interests of the child and compliance with legal requirements. The circumstance involving a relative does not necessitate a diligent search because relatives are often already known to the court and are more likely to be accessible for contact. The legal system recognizes relatives as primary connections in a child's life and often prioritizes them as potential placement options, allowing for expedited consideration without the need for an exhaustive search. In contrast, other situations—such as those involving a non-U.S. parent, an Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) child, or an undocumented parent—may require more effort to locate and verify information about the parent or guardians due to complexities surrounding legal status, jurisdictional issues, or compliance with specific regulations. Thus, relatives are typically excluded from the diligent search requirement due to their identifiable and direct connections to the child in question.