Find out how and where to file an application for a Child Requiring Assistance (CRA).
- This page, File an application for a Child Requiring Assistance, is offered by
- Juvenile Court
- Massachusetts Court System
File an application for a Child Requiring Assistance
The Details
What you need
To start a CRA court case, you need to file an Application for a Child Requiring Assistance. You can file a CRA application for a child who is between the ages of 6 and 18.
- If you are a parent, legal guardian, or custodian — File CRA Application Runaway-Stubborn (JV-086) (PDF).
- If you are representing a school district — File CRA Application School District (JV-088) (PDF).
How to file
File the CRA application in person at the correct Juvenile Court location.
- If you are a parent, legal guardian, or custodian — File in the Juvenile Court that has jurisdiction of the city or town where the child lives.
- If you are representing a school district — File in the Juvenile Court that has jurisdiction of the city or town where the school is located.
More info
Once someone files a CRA application, a notice that the application has been filed and the date for the preliminary hearing will be sent to:
- The child's parent or guardian
- The child
- The Department of Children and Families (DCF) (the state's child protection agency)
- The Department of Youth Services (DYS)
Please see Learn about the Child Requiring Assistance case process to find out more.
Downloads
CRA Application Runaway-Stubborn (JV-086), Open PDF file, 1.87 MB
(English, PDF 1.87 MB)
CRA Application School District (JV-088), Open PDF file, 1.85 MB
(English, PDF 1.85 MB)