Families In Need of Services (FINS)
Assistance Program

WHAT IS FINS?

Families In Need of Services (FINS) became effective in all courts having juvenile jurisdiction on July 1, 1994, as Title VII of the Louisiana Children’s Code.

PURPOSE:

FINS is designed to assist troubled children (K - 12th grade) and their families by providing information about various community resources making appropriate referrals.

GOAL:

The goal of FINS is to reduce the number of children involved in formal juvenile court by referring children and families to necessary services and programs, such as counseling, substance abuse treatment, tutoring, and many more. A FINS officer will monitor each family’s case regularly to ensure that all services and referrals are making a positive difference.

WHEN SHOULD FINS ASSISTANCE BE REQUESTED?

Some of the most common reasons:

  • If a child is truant and/or repeatedly violates school rules

  • If a child is a runaway

  • If a child is ungovernable

  • If a child has committed an act which, if committed by an adult, would be a crime under federal, state, or local law. Such acts include but are not limited to gambling, curfew violations, alcohol possession or consumption, and tobacco use.

  • If a caretaker has caused, encouraged, or contributed to a child’s delinquent behavior.

HOW DOES FINS WORK?

The FINS process begins with a written complaint submitted to the FINS Officer.

WHO CAN MAKE THE WRITTEN COMPLAINT?

  • Law Enforcement

  • Parents/Caretakers

  • School Officials

  • District Attorneys/Judges

WHAT IS THE PROCESS?

  • A preliminary investigation into the complaint (Screening/Referral Form)

  • Conduct conference with family and responsible agencies

  • Initiate Informal Family Service Plan Agreement (IFSPA)

  • Monitor compliance with IFSPA

  • Refer only non-compliant families to court

WHO IS THE FINS OFFICER?

The FINS Officer (or Coordinator) serves as a neutral third party, which helps to resolve individual/family conflict, by identifying problem areas and coordinating services without formal court intervention.

Gracie Trahan
18th JDC- FINS Coordinator
225-964-6250
gracie.trahan@18jdcb.org