The law significantly changed child welfare law in the United States. It made juvenile court judges an integral part of the operation of the law. However, many social service agencies do not effectively deliver preventive and reunification services to families. Inadequate resources are one of the problems. In addition, juvenile court oversight of social service delivery has been ineffective or nonexistent; many juvenile courts do not ensure that children in out-of-home care attain a permanent home in a timely manner. As a result, many State child welfare systems do not serve children and families well, and most States risk losing Federal funding for social services. Nevertheless, in several jurisdictions, the law is working well, resources are effectively used, and children and families are well served. The common factors in these jurisdictions are early provision of intensive social services, well-organized court systems, and cooperation between those who serve these children and families. With a court system that has adequate resources and is intelligently run, the judge can have a positive impact on service delivery, its timeliness, and the availability of services in the community. 179 reference notes