Tex.
Fam. Code Section 264.405
Center Duties
(a)
A center shall:(1)
receive, review, and track department reports relating to the suspected abuse or neglect of a child or the death of a child from abuse or neglect to ensure a consistent, comprehensive approach to all cases that meet the criteria outlined in the multidisciplinary team working protocol adopted under Section 264.4031 (Multidisciplinary Team Working Protocol);(2)
coordinate the activities of participating agencies relating to abuse and neglect investigations and delivery of services to alleged abuse and neglect victims and their families;(3)
facilitate assessment of alleged abuse or neglect victims and their families to determine their need for services relating to the investigation of abuse or neglect and provide needed services; and(4)
comply with the standards adopted under Section 264.409 (Administrative Contracts)(c).(b)
A center shall provide:(1)
facilitation of a multidisciplinary team response to abuse or neglect allegations;(2)
a formal process that requires the multidisciplinary team to routinely discuss and share information regarding investigations, case status, and services needed by children and families;(3)
a system to monitor the progress and track the outcome of each case;(4)
a child-focused setting that is comfortable, private, and physically and psychologically safe for diverse populations at which a multidisciplinary team can meet to facilitate the efficient and appropriate disposition of abuse and neglect cases through the civil and criminal justice systems;(5)
culturally competent services for children and families throughout the duration of a case;(6)
victim support and advocacy services for children and families;(7)
forensic interviews that are conducted in a neutral, fact-finding manner and coordinated to avoid duplicative interviewing;(8)
access to specialized medical evaluations and treatment services for victims of alleged abuse or neglect;(9)
evidence-based, trauma-focused mental health services for children and nonoffending members of the child’s family; and(10)
opportunities for community involvement through a formalized volunteer program dedicated to supporting the center.(c)
The duties prescribed to a center under Subsection (a)(1) do not relieve the department or a law enforcement agency of its duty to investigate a report of abuse or neglect as required by other law.
Source:
Section 264.405 — Center Duties, https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.264.htm#264.405 (accessed Jun. 5, 2024).
