Law for Social Workers

Synopsis

Law for Social Workers has been supporting social work students and professionals for over 25 years. Written by an expert team with practical experience, this book provides the perfect combination of legal explanation and practical insight and is the ideal text to see students through their course and career. This edition continues to provide an accurate, jargon-free account of the law social workers need to know, with helpful diagrams and case studies included throughout to explain areas of difficulty and ensure understanding for students and professionals at all levels. It also includes the Social Worker's Toolkit, which offers practical advice on topics such as going to court, preparing evidence, and writing reports, providing the ideal support while on placement or in the workplace. Digital formats and resources The sixteenth edition is available for students and institutions to purchase in a variety of formats, and is supported by online resources. The e-book offers a mobile experience and convenient access along with functionality tools, navigation features and links that offer extra learning support: www.oxfordtextbooks.co.uk/ebooks This edition's online resources include: -Video tutorials on a range of practical topics -Multiple choice questions for students to test their knowledge -Guidance on answering the exercises from the book -Further reading suggestions -Glossary and flashcards of legal jargon - PowerPoint slides with accompanying notes for lecturers

Summary

Chapter 1: Overview of the Legal System

* Introduction to law and its role in social work
* Sources of law: statutes, regulations, case law
* Legal principles: due process, equal protection
* Court systems: federal, state, tribal

Example:
Social workers must be aware of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in employment, public accommodations, and other areas.

Chapter 2: Civil Rights

* Federal and state civil rights laws
* Discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, disability
* Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and other agencies

Example:
A social worker may assist a client who has been discriminated against in employment due to their sexual orientation.

Chapter 3: Privacy

* Right to privacy under the Fourth Amendment
* Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
* Confidentiality in social work practice

Example:
Social workers are required to maintain the confidentiality of client information, except in certain limited circumstances, such as when there is a risk of harm to the client or others.

Chapter 4: Reporting and Disclosure of Child Abuse

* Legal obligations to report child abuse
* Child Protective Services (CPS)
* Immunities and protections for reporters

Example:
A social worker who works with children must understand the reporting requirements for suspected child abuse in their state.

Chapter 5: Elder Abuse

* Legal definitions and categories of elder abuse
* Reporting obligations and interventions
* Elder abuse prevention programs

Example:
A social worker may provide services to an elderly client who has been the victim of financial exploitation.

Chapter 6: Mental Health Law

* Involuntary hospitalization
* Competency and consent to treatment
* Least restrictive alternatives

Example:
A social worker may assist a client who is facing involuntary hospitalization for mental illness by advocating for their rights and ensuring that they receive appropriate treatment.

Chapter 7: Confidentiality and Privilege

* Privileged communications between clients and social workers
* Exceptions to privilege
* Ethical considerations

Example:
A social worker may be obligated to break confidentiality if they have reason to believe that a client is at risk of harming themselves or others.

Chapter 8: Legal Liability

* Professional negligence
* Malpractice claims
* Risk management strategies

Example:
Social workers should document their work thoroughly and follow established practice guidelines to reduce the risk of being sued for negligence.

Chapter 9: Social Work Ethics

* Ethical principles and values guiding social work practice
* National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics
* Ethical decision-making process

Example:
Social workers may face ethical dilemmas in their practice, such as the conflict between maintaining confidentiality and reporting suspected child abuse.