About This Role
This role involves conducting Certification Review Hearings for minors under the LPS Act, ensuring they receive legal protections while meeting statutory and county requirements. The Officer must conduct hearings in a developmentally appropriate manner, considering minors' comprehension and balancing clinical and legal factors.
Responsibilities
- Conduct hearings for minors pursuant to WIC §§5585 and 5250
- Determine whether probable cause exists for continued detention
- Ensure minors are informed of their rights in a developmentally appropriate manner
- Incorporate guardian or family participation as required
- Maintain neutrality and independence in all proceedings
- Review documentation for completeness and legal sufficiency
- Evaluate clinical and behavioral evidence within a developmental framework
- Issue written determinations supported by evidence
- Ensure compliance with patients’ rights and regulatory requirements
- Coordinate hearing logistics with appropriate parties
- Maintain accurate and defensible records
- Disclose conflicts of interest and recuse when appropriate
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (JD), a Master’s degree, or higher in behavioral health, psychology, social work, public administration, or a related field is preferred
- Equivalent professional experience in administrative hearings, behavioral health systems, or quasi-judicial proceedings may be considered in lieu of formal education, consistent with county eligibility requirements
- Minimum two (2) years of experience in LPS hearings or behavioral health systems
- Knowledge of WIC §5585 and minor-specific LPS requirements
- Ability to conduct hearings using developmentally appropriate communication techniques
- Understanding of minor consent laws and family/guardian involvement requirements
- Skill in assessing clinical and behavioral evidence within a developmental framework
- Ability to ensure minors understand their rights to the extent possible
- Strong awareness of family dynamics and their impact on participation in hearings
- Ability to maintain neutrality while adapting communication style for minors
- Familiarity with San Bernardino County Patients’ Rights expectations for minors
- Strong documentation and decision-writing skills for legally defensible outcomes
Nice to have:
- Experience with child and adolescent populations
- Experience within San Bernardino County systems or court-related processes
Important Details
- Contract: Independent Contractor
About the Company
Engagement in this role is subject to approval and/or recognition by San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health and applicable Patients’ Rights oversight entities, as required.