Families in Need of Services is part of the Juvenile Court's Community Services unit and is a prevention/intervention activity aimed at the specific needs of families who are coping with incorrigible behaviors in their children. The goal is to provide substantive services to the whole family, avoiding the need to involve the juvenile or family in the formal delinquency system. This is accomplished by providing three levels of service: crisis stabilization, short-term therapeutic intervention and formal family mediation. Each of these levels shares the same objective: return the authority and responsibility to the family by supporting them through the process of problem resolution.

This unit offers services across Maricopa County, and the goal is that all families receive assistance within 24 hrs. of presentation (either a phone call or a walk in). All FINS staff are trained to work with families in crises. The staff attempt to utilize family strengths and support systems to help resolve the conflicts which brought the family to the Court for help. The unit staff will help the family draw up a detailed plan of action, best suited to meet the individual needs of the family. When necessary, staff may refer families to community-based resources or contracted services. Staff work regularly with police departments, probation staff, social service agencies and behavioral health entities to insure clients receive the services and help they require.

If you need Family services please contact the FINS Help Line at (602) 506-5913. For other services please contact the Superior Court Community Services Unit at 602-506-5332.