Iowa Code Title VI. Human Services [Chs. 216-255A] § 232.57. Reasonable efforts defined--effect of aggravated circumstances

1. For the purposes of this subchapter, unless the context otherwise requires, “reasonable efforts” means the efforts made to prevent permanent removal of a child from the child's home and to encourage reunification of the child with the child's parents and family. Reasonable efforts shall include but are not limited to giving consideration, if appropriate, to interstate placement of a child in the permanency planning decisions involving the child and giving consideration to in-state and out-of-state placement options at a permanency hearing and when using concurrent planning. If a court order includes a determination that continuation of the child in the child's home is not appropriate or not possible, reasonable efforts may include the efforts made in a timely manner to finalize a permanency plan for the child.

2. If the court determines by clear and convincing evidence that aggravated circumstances exist, with written findings of fact based upon evidence in the record, the court may waive the requirement for making reasonable efforts. The existence of aggravated circumstances is indicated by any of the following:

3. Any order entered under this subchapter may include findings regarding reasonable efforts.