Medications for Opiod Use Disorder and Child Welfare: Bridging Evidence, Practice, and Court Decision Making

Medication‑Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a widely accepted, evidence‑based approach for substance use disorders, yet persistent misconceptions continue to shape court decisions, case planning, and family engagement in ways that can unintentionally undermine child safety and long‑term stability.

Designed for judges, attorneys, and multidisciplinary professionals, this session clarifies what MAT is and what it is not within the context of child welfare–involved cases. Presenters will unpack common myths, examine how stigma and cross‑system misalignment affect families, and explore real‑world scenarios that illustrate the practical implications of MAT participation in court‑involved cases.

Participants will leave with tools to distinguish clinical evidence from misconception, assess MAT participation without bias, and apply guiding questions that support informed, collaborative decision‑making across systems, ultimately promoting safety, permanency, and family stability.