What does CPS mean in child protection?
What is Child Protective Services (CPS)? Child Protective Services is a state agency that investigates reports of child abuse and neglect. Child safety is the first concern of Child Protective Services. They will work with both parents to safely care for their child.
What do I do if CPS is involved?
If Child Protective Services (CPS) is involved with your family, it is because someone was concerned about the health and safety of your child and notified CPS. Your first call is to the social worker assigned to your child’s case. That person can help you understand what is going on.
What should I do if the CPS/DCFS cannot produce a warrant?
If the CPS/DCFS government agent cannot produce a warrant, firmly but politely tell them that they will have to remain outside until a warrant is presented. They will be annoyed. But you will be far better off – legally. If the agent says it is an EMERGENCY call their bluff.
What is a dependency petition in a CPS case?
CPS files a „dependency petition“ with the court if it believes that the child has been abused or neglected or is at risk of harm and must be removed from the mother and/or father’s care. This begins a court process called a dependency case.
What happens if CPS is involved with my family?
If Child Protective Services (CPS) is involved with your family, it is because someone was concerned about the health and safety of your child and notified CPS. Your first call is to the social worker assigned to your child’s case.
What happens at a CPS court hearing?
At the court hearings, the CPS worker and both the mother and the father can provide information to the court.
What happens at a disposition hearing in a CPS case?
Essentially, the disposition hearing determines what will be required to resolve the problems that led to CPS intervention. The rules of evidence are relaxed in disposition hearings, and they are generally less formal than adjudications, although witnesses sometimes testify and are cross-examined.