Defending Families. Protecting Futures.
Bold legal advocacy for parents, children, and families navigating the child welfare and juvenile justice systems in Massachusetts.
15+
Years Of Experience
83+
Client served
95.0%
Success Rate
Defending Families. Protecting Futures.
Bold legal advocacy for parents, children, and families navigating the child welfare and juvenile justice systems in Massachusetts.
Years Of Experience
Client served
Success Rate
Defending Families. Protecting Futures.
Bold legal advocacy for parents, children, and families navigating the child welfare and juvenile justice systems in Massachusetts.
Meet the Attorney
Joyce Angela
Jellison-Hounkanrin, Esq.
Founder & Lead Attorney
Attorney Jellison-Hounkanrin brings more than a decade of litigation, legal strategy, and courtroom experience to her clients. A former journalist turned legal powerhouse, she is a fierce advocate for parents, children, and families entangled in state systems.
Her work is deeply informed by trauma awareness, cultural competence, and a lifelong commitment to protecting the vulnerable. She is known for her unapologetic advocacy, unflinching honesty, and unwavering compassion.
Driven by compassion, Guided by experience.
At Hounkanrin Legal Defense, we understand the emotional and legal challenges that arise when families are facing court involvement. Whether you’re up against DCF, battling for custody, or advocating for your child in the juvenile system, our mission is to restore your power, protect your rights, and ensure your story is heard.
Our Core Values
At Hounkanrin Legal Defense, our core values are more than guiding principles, they are the foundation of every decision we make and every client we serve. We believe justice must be pursued with dignity, advocacy must be fearless, and every client deserves to feel seen, heard, and respected.
From our first conversation to the resolution of your case, we uphold honesty, equity, and unwavering integrity, ensuring that your story receives the fierce and compassionate representation it deserves.
Justice Rooted in Dignity
Advocacy Without Apology
Clients Come First
Honesty, Equity, and Respect
Our Core Values
At Hounkanrin Legal Defense, our core values are more than guiding principles, they are the foundation of every decision we make and every client we serve. We believe justice must be pursued with dignity, advocacy must be fearless, and every client deserves to feel seen, heard, and respected.
From our first conversation to the resolution of your case, we uphold honesty, equity, and unwavering integrity, ensuring that your story receives the fierce and compassionate representation it deserves.
Justice Rooted in Dignity
Advocacy Without Apology
Clients Come First
Honesty, Equity, and Respect
I will help you tell your story
You're not just a case file, you're a human being with a story that matters. And that story deserves fierce representation.
Why Work With Us
What Sets Us Apart
○ Trauma-Informed Legal Advocacy
○ Deep Experience in Child Welfare & Juvenile Law
○ Culturally Competent Representation
○ Clear, Compassionate Communication
○ Strategic Legal Solutions Backed by Heart
Updates From Us
Blog Tips
- Update: September, 2025
What Is an ICPC and What Does It Mean for You?
ICPC stands for the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children. It’s the process used when achild from Massachusetts might
- Update: September, 2025
What Is Foster Care and What Does It Mean for You?
Foster care means your child is placed outside your home while the case continues. This might be witha foster family,
- Update: September, 2025
What Is an ICPC and What Does It Mean for You?
ICPC stands for the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children. It’s the process used when achild from Massachusetts might
General Questions
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if DCF has taken my child?
If the Department of Children and Families (DCF) has removed your child or opened an investigation, it is critical to contact an attorney immediately. You have legal rights, including the right to a hearing, and timely legal representation can protect your family and help reunify you with your child.
What is a Care and Protection case?
A Care and Protection (C&P) case is a court proceeding initiated when DCF believes a child is being abused or neglected. The court determines whether the child should be placed in state custody, with a relative, or remain at home under supervision.
Can I get my child back after DCF removal?
Yes, reunification is often the goal. However, it depends on the facts of your case, your compliance with services, and the timeline set by the court. Legal representation helps ensure your rights are protected and that your case is presented effectively.
How is child custody decided in Massachusetts?
Custody is based on the “best interests of the child.” Courts consider factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, stability, safety, and the ability of each parent to meet the child’s needs. Custody may be shared (joint) or granted primarily to one parent (sole).
What’s the difference between physical and legal custody?
Physical custody refers to where the child lives.
Legal custody refers to who makes important decisions (education, health, religion).
Both can be joint or sole, depending on the situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a custody or divorce case?
While not legally required, having a lawyer ensures your rights are fully protected and that you navigate the court process effectively. Family law cases can be emotionally charged and complex, especially when children are involved.
General Questions
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if DCF has taken my child?
If the Department of Children and Families (DCF) has removed your child or opened an investigation, it is critical to contact an attorney immediately. You have legal rights, including the right to a hearing, and timely legal representation can protect your family and help reunify you with your child.
What is a Care and Protection case?
A Care and Protection (C&P) case is a court proceeding initiated when DCF believes a child is being abused or neglected. The court determines whether the child should be placed in state custody, with a relative, or remain at home under supervision.
Can I get my child back after DCF removal?
Yes, reunification is often the goal. However, it depends on the facts of your case, your compliance with services, and the timeline set by the court. Legal representation helps ensure your rights are protected and that your case is presented effectively.
How is child custody decided in Massachusetts?
Custody is based on the “best interests of the child.” Courts consider factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, stability, safety, and the ability of each parent to meet the child’s needs. Custody may be shared (joint) or granted primarily to one parent (sole).
What’s the difference between physical and legal custody?
Physical custody refers to where the child lives.
Legal custody refers to who makes important decisions (education, health, religion).
Both can be joint or sole, depending on the situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a custody or divorce case?
While not legally required, having a lawyer ensures your rights are fully protected and that you navigate the court process effectively. Family law cases can be emotionally charged and complex, especially when children are involved.
Every case has a turning point, let’s make this yours. The sooner we talk, the sooner we can protect your rights and your future.”