52-2-102. Recognition of parental control of children — placement with extended family. This title may not be construed as authorizing any state or county official, agent, or representative, in carrying out any of the provisions of this title, to take charge of any child over the objection of either of the parents of the child or the person standing in loco parentis to the child, except pursuant to a proper court order. When it is necessary to take charge of a child pursuant to a court order, the department shall, when it is in the best interests of the child and when the home is approved by the department, place the child with the child’s extended family, including adult siblings, grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, and uncles, prior to placing the child in an alternative protective or residential facility.

Terms Used In Montana Code 52-2-102

  • Department: means the department of public health and human services provided for in 2-15-2201. See Montana Code 52-2-101
  • Person: includes a corporation or other entity as well as a natural person. See Montana Code 1-1-201
  • State: when applied to the different parts of the United States, includes the District of Columbia and the territories. See Montana Code 1-1-201