UNIT I - GENERAL PROVISIONS

D. Terminology (705 ILCS 405/1-3), continued:

5. Best Interest (4.05): Whenever a 'best interest' determination is required in the Juvenile Court Act, the court should consider the following factors:

  1. Physical safety and welfare of the child.

  2. Development of the child's identity.

  3. The child's background and ties, including family, culture, and religious beliefs.

  4. The child's sense of attachments, including:
  1. Where the child actually feels love, attachment, and a sense of being valued

  2. Security

  3. Familiarity

  4. Continuity of affection

  5. The least disruptive placement alternative for the child

  6. The child's wishes and long-term goals

  7. The child's community ties, including school, church, and friends

It should be understood that the child needs permanency as quickly as possible to ensure his/her stability and the continuity of relationships with parental figures, siblings, and other relatives.

The court also considers the uniqueness of every family and child, risks faced by the child when entering any type of substitute care. This definition was added to the Act as a means to better serve minors appearing before the court.

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