Construction and purpose

§ 16–2316. Construction and purposeSections 11–1551 to 11–1554, section 11–1583 (a)(1) and (a)(3), section 11–1584, section 11–1586 (a)–(d), and this subchapter shall be liberally construed so that, with respect to each child coming under the court’s jurisdiction: (1) the child shall receive such care and guidance, preferably in his own home, as will serve his welfare and the best interests of the District; and (2) the child’s family ties shall be conserved and strengthened whenever possible, and, except when his welfare or the safety and protection of the public can not be adequately safeguarded without his removal, he may not be removed from the custody of his parents; and (3) when the child is removed from his own family, the court shall secure for him custody, care, and discipline as nearly as possible equivalent to that which should have been given him by his parents.