The Legal Environment of Social Work

This book attempts to give you a perspective on the legal environment in which social work operates. Naturally, it is selective. It cannot discuss the whole of either the law or social work. Nor does it try to answer specific legal questions, because the law is constantly changing. If you are alerted to the problems—the crucial issues—the book accomplishes its purpose. There are numerous references to the social work and legal literature for those who want to delve into an area further. This book updates the law in the earlier edition of this book and adds mention of new legislation, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, that will be of interest to social workers.

Part I introduces you to the legal system and its impact on the profession through the organization of social agencies and professional licensing—in other words, the legal environment that makes social work possible as an organized activity. It also includes a brief introduction to the criminal justice system and the juvenile courts, those components of the legal system with which social workers have the most contact.

Part II discusses special problem areas for clients. Some of these, such as filiation and adoption, are properly the concerns of those in child welfare. Others raise important questions for those interested in the delivery of services within complex organizations. All try to suggest avenues for social work intervention through creative use of the legal system.

I am particularly grateful to Charmaine Dimattia, who has done a remarkable job of typing the manuscript, adding to existing material, and juggling footnotes. She was a tremendous help.

Leila Obier Schroeder