• The Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS): Overview

    The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services was established on January 1, 1964 as the nation’s first cabinet-level state child welfare agency.

    The mission of Illinois DCFS is to:

    • Protect children who are reported to be abused or neglected and to increase their families' capacity to safely care for them.
    • Provide for the well-being of children in DCFS care.
    • Provide appropriate, permanent families as quickly as possible for those children who cannot safely return home.
    • Support early intervention and child abuse prevention activities.
    • Work in partnerships with communities to fulfill this mission.

    *DCFS has its own counsel, and the State does not represent DCFS.

  • Susan Barker
    Deputy General Counsel, Department of Children and Family Services

    What is the Difference Between the State's Attorney and DCFS Regional Counsel?

    • The State's Attorney prosecutes the case by providing evidence to the court.
    • Regional Counsel are in a supportive role.
    • Often the interests of the State and DCFS are aligned, but not always.
  • Susan Barker
    Deputy General Counsel, Department of Children and Family Services

    What is a DCFS Attorney?

    • DCFS Attorneys are also known as Regional Counsel.
    • Assist investigators by facilitating communication and providing legal advice.
  • Rachel Mast
    State's Attorney of Henderson County, 9th Judicial Circuit

    Role of DCFS Regional Counsel vs. Role of State's

    • Regional Counsel can offer special skills in resolving issues.