| Abstract: | This study examines systemic litigation against the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Focusing on B.H. , a 1988 class action suit, it looks at the litigation process, conceptualized as continual interaction among litigants, the court, and affected non‐litigants. Dividing the litigation process into five phases, it discusses the effect of B.H. on child welfare policy in Illinois. The study concludes that B.H. provided a stimulus for reform, yet has been unable to completely satisfy the hopes of the litigants in achieving significant systemic reform. |
