What is the DCFS investigation process?

When a formal investigation begins, DCFS assigns a Child Protection Investigator to look into the case. Within 24 hours of the first report to the hotline, the investigator will try to visit the child to make sure there is no immediate threat to the child’s safety. The person accused of abusing or neglecting the child.

What can get your child taken away from you?

Child Custody Table of Contents

• Physical Abuse.
• Abduction.
• False Allegations.
• Child Neglect.
• Domestic Violence.
• Violation of Orders.
• Refusal to Co-parent.
• Parental Alienation.

What is considered an unfit environment for a child?

A parent may be deemed unfit if they have been abusive, neglected, or failed to provide proper care for the child. A parent with a mental disturbance or addiction to drugs or alcohol may also be found to be an unfit parent.

Can you sue CPS for false allegations?

Unfortunately, unless your civil rights are violated, you likely won’t have any legal claim against Child Protective Services stemming from the agency’s, or its representatives’, routine actions. However, when civil rights are violated, individuals can sue CPS, and these claims can be costly for cities.

What does DCF look for in a home visit?

The CPS worker might want to speak to your child. She might want to have a look at your child’s bedroom, toys, homework and would look for sanitary procedures and whether food is available readily for your child. There are certain things which one should keep in mind to have the CPS report in your favor.

Can social services take my child away without evidence?

Anyone can call Social Services and tell them about children they think are being abused and Social Services have a legal duty to check this out. Social Services do not want to take your children away, but they have to make sure that they are safe, and cared for properly.

What is excessive discipline?

Discipline is probably excessive if: Punishment is meant to instill fear rather than to educate the child. Caretaker, whether a parent, guardian or school official, loses control. Action results from a caretaker’s unreasonable demands or expectations for the child.

What is appropriate discipline?

Thus, effective discipline means discipline applied with mutual respect in a firm, fair, reasonable and consistent way. The goal is to protect the child from danger, help the child learn self-discipline, and develop a healthy conscience and an internal sense of responsibility and control. It should also instill values.

Can CPS take your child for living in a camper?

CPS cannot take your child for living in an RV, as there are no laws preventing that. However, you need to make plans for education, healthcare, and other basic needs.

What are the four types of discipline?

What Is My Parenting Style? Four Types of Parenting

• Authoritarian or Disciplinarian.
• Permissive or Indulgent.
• Uninvolved.
• Authoritative.

What does social services look for in a home visit?

Typically when a social worker visits your home, they are looking for any safety hazards and whether or not you have enough space for the child. They would also check for basic safety items, such as a fire alarm, fire extinguisher, and covered electrical outlets.

How long does a DCFS case stay on your record?

If you are indicated, DCFS will keep your name in a database called the State Central Register (SCR). Your name can stay in this database 5, 20, or 50 years depending on the allegation . Some unfounded reports may be kept by DCFS for only 3 years.