Rules and Violations Process
DCYF is implementing a new process for handling rule violations at all facilities. This process will provide fair, clear, and consistent guidance for both staff and young people.
The approach:
- A three-tiered system that outlines rule violation levels. Levels are low-level, general, and serious.
- Interventions based on the rule that is broken. Staff will be trained in these interventions to address behaviors.
- Staff will be able to quickly respond to behavior.
- Provide a structure to address violations.
- Allows young people to have consistent and fair interventions.
We will be providing future opportunities for feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is DCYF creating a rule violation process?
This process will help staff and young people understand the impact of behaviors. This process sets clear expectations for rules and how violations are addressed.
The goal is to create a process for when rules are broken within JR to better serve young people.
Where can I find more information about rules and the rule violations and hearings processes?
We have created resources for staff, young people, and the community for the process. Every young person will review and get a copy of the Serious Violation Process and Rule Violation and Response Guide.
The guide includes:
- Rules and examples.
- What processes will take place when rules are broken.
- The factors considered when giving interventions.
- Possible interventions or responses to a violation.
What happens when a rule violation occurs?
When a rule violation happens, we take time to understand what occurred. This includes learning about:
- The specific situation
- When and where it occurred
- Who was involved
- What led to the situation
- How it impacted everyone involved
The goal is to understand what happened and help. This happens through staff writing Incident Reports (IRs).
To learn more, check out our serious violation hearing process. Only serious rule violations need a hearing.
Who schedules the rule violation hearing?
The DCYF Administrative Services team will schedule the hearing in coordination with local facility staff.
Who tells the young person about a rule violation hearing?
The JR Administrative Services team will prepare an information packet for young people. The packet will tell them about rule violations and the hearings process. Young people will know at least three business days before the scheduled hearing date.
What information is in the rule violation hearing packet?
The packet includes:
- The scheduled hearing date.
- An overview of the rules the young person may have violated.
- Interventions used in response to the behavior.
- Other supporting information and documentation.
Do rule violation hearings take place in person or virtually?
Rule violation hearings take place in person. Typically, the hearing will be at the facility a young person is at. Rule violation hearings are recorded for record-keeping.
Can a young person request help to prepare for a hearing?
A young person may ask their Case Manager to help them prepare for a hearing and attend the hearing for support.
Do young people need a lawyer or legal representative for a hearing?
No, rule violation hearings are not legal proceedings, so legal representatives do not participate. This is an internal JR process.
Can family attend the hearing?
Family will not attend a rule violation hearing. If families have questions about specific situations involving rule violations, they may reach out to the young person's case manager or local facility leaders.
What happens in a rule violation hearing?
During the hearing the following will happen:
- A staff member shares information about suspected rule violations.
- A young person can share their perspective.
- A hearing officer will talk with everyone involved, identify rules that were violated, and decide necessary interventions.
- Case managers, mental health, and security staff support the process and individuals involved.
What decisions are made at rule violation hearings?
Hearing officers will make intervention recommendations and referrals. Both are based on information provided for a hearing, the rule violated, and needs of the young person. Information can include incident reports, video, and information from staff, young people, victims, and witnesses.
What is an intervention?
An intervention is a response to breaking a rule.
What happens after the hearing?
After the hearing, Case Managers will:
- Meet with the young person to discuss the outcome, including any interventions that were issued
- Help connect young people to any programs or services identified as needs
- Make plans for moving forward positively
- Document any follow up, including progress and challenges.
- Help other staff and young people understand and follow next steps
Can young people request an appeal to a rule violation hearing decision?
A young person may appeal a rule violation hearing decision within 5 business days of the hearing. A young person must request a Rule Violation Hearing Decision Appeal Form and submit it to their Case Manager or Living Unit Manager (LUM). After that, the staff member will send the appeal request to the Hearings Office at dcyf.hearingsoffice@dcfy.wa.gov for review.
