N.J. Admin. Code § 10:45-2.2

Current through Register Vol. 56, No. 12, June 17, 2024

Section 10:45-2.2 - Eligibility requirements for children

(a) An individual under the age of 18 years is eligible for temporary guardianship services if he or she is receiving services from the Division and is without parent or guardian after the requirements of (b)2 below have been satisfied.

(b) In the instance of a child determined eligible for guardianship services where no parent or guardian is deemed available, staff of the service component shall verify such status by:

1. Documentation that the child's legal guardian(s) is deceased and that there are no other relations or close family friends available to serve as guardian; or

2. Documentation that the following efforts to locate the child's guardian(s) have been unsuccessful:

i. Notice by letter in the primary language of the guardian, if known, by regular mail and certified mail, return receipt requested, to the guardian's last known address. Up to 30 days should be given for a response to the letters;

ii. Inquiry by letter among any known relatives, friends and current or former employers of the guardian(s); and

iii. Inquiries, using the guardian's last known or suspected address, to the local post office, the Division of Motor Vehicles and any social service and law enforcement agencies known to have had contact with the guardian(s) both in New Jersey and in other states. Failure to receive response to the inquiries within 45 days shall constitute a negative response.

(c) The DRNJ shall be notified in writing by the BGS within 10 days of initiation, termination or change of guardianship services for a child whose parents are deemed unavailable.

N.J. Admin. Code § 10:45-2.2