Citizen Review Board

Citizen Review Board

Citizen Review Board

7th Judicial District of Kansas

District Court / Citizen Review Board

Contact Us

Location: Judicial and Law Enforcement Center
Hours: Mon-Fri, 8 am - 5 pm
Phone: 785-832-5215
Fax:
785-838-2455
Contact: District Court Contacts

Citizen Review Board sealThe Citizen Review Board (CRB) is a court-based volunteer program that reviews Child in Need of Care (CINC) cases. CRB volunteers meet with children, families, attorneys, service providers, and others involved in the case to understand the family's progress, challenges, and needs. Cases may involve children in the custody of the Department for Children and Families (DCF) or children who remain with their parents or guardians while participating in court-ordered services. When a case is assigned to the CRB, the review is held instead of a courtroom hearing.  After the CRB, the judge reviews the CRB's recommendations and determines what action, if any, to include in a court order.

CRB Hearings Calendar

Volunteering Opportunities

You may be able to use your talents and interests in a variety of ways. Individuals interested in serving as board members should review the Volunteer Position Description (PDF).  You may download this document and submit the completed form by email to crb@dgcoks.gov . To view and complete this form, you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is free to download.  You can download it safely from Adobe’s official website:  https://get.adobe.com/reader/

There is no formal position description for skill-specific volunteers, as their roles vary and are not defined by statute. Please submit your resume' to crb@dgcoks.gov .  We look forward to connecting with individuals who have strong Microsoft Office Suite skills.

After your information is received, CRB staff will reach out to you to set up a discussion and start an interview process. Additionally, paperwork will be required during the applicant screening process, including necessary background checks. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What court cases do CRBs review?

By Kansas law, CRB is to review the case of a child who is the subject of a Child In Need of Care (CINC) petition filed by the District Attorney’s office.  CINC cases can be filed by the District Attorney for a variety of reasons, including abuse, neglect, and truancy.

What happens at a CRB?

At the scheduled date and time, CRB members receive verbal information from all parties with pertinent information about the cases.  CRB members prepare for the meeting in advance and create questions for participants at the CRB based on the information in the court's case file which the CRB Director provides.

Who supervises the volunteers and how many volunteers are there?

Volunteers are recruited, screened, trained and supervised by a CRB Director, who is a paid staff member. Each Citizen Review Board may have three to seven members.  In Douglas County, the District Court administers the CRB program and supervises the CRB Director.

Who may serve be on a CRB?

CRB applicants must:

  • be a least 18 years old;
  • have a special interest in children;
  • complete a written application asking for educational background, employment history, and personal experience with child abuse and neglect;
  • provide three references;
  • successfully complete an interview; 
  • pass background checks;
  • complete at least 12 hours of specialized training; 
  • be approved & selected by CRB Director; and
  • be appointed & swear or affirm an oath of office and appointment by the judge.

Judicial and Law Enforcement Building

111 E 11th St
Lawrence, KS 66044
United States

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JLE Building