Based on the facts of the film discuss the following topics:

1. Assume you are the Deputy Attorney General in the civil child protection action of New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) v. Helene McCready. Explain the evidence you will use to prove that Helene McCready abused and /or neglected Amanda.

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2. Assume that you are the Law Guardian for Amanda in the civil child protection case of New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) v. Helene McCready. If the DAG successfully proves that Amanda is an abused or neglected child  You as Law Guardian will have to make an argument about what should happen to Amanda; should she be reunited with her mother or should she be removed and placed elsewhere? If she is to be removed are there any resources for her?

For this argument you must consider the position proposed by Doyle (Morgan Freeman) and the position proposed by Patrick (Casey Affleck). Near the end of the film,  Doyle and Patrick have a face to face debate as they stand outside of Doyle's home. Doyle believes Amanda will be better off removed from her mother and placed in a new home. Patrick believes that Amanda should be returned to her mother.

Based on the characters and facts of the film, are there other options for Amanda?

The Doyle/ Patrick debate echoes the historical debate about the best method of child protection. Should there be rescue and removal of the child or provision of services to the family of origin?

As Law Guardian for Amanda, you must take a position and explain it. In your explanation be sure to refer to the historical debate and to support your position by reference to course material and/or independent research.