A Caseworker Just Called Me. What Do I Do?

It’s every parent’s worst nightmare. A call or visit from a Department of Human Services caseworker. We’ve all heard the horror stories on the news of children were who removed from their parents. In this article, I want to provide you with some good news, and

First, I want you to take a deep breath. Now, let’s dive in.

Whenever I talk to clients in this situation, one of their first questions is always, “Are my children going to be removed from my home?” The answer depends on the case, but I have two pieces of good news for you. First, if the Caseworker is going to remove the child, it’s usually done the first time the Caseworker visits your home. Second, the Department tries really hard to keep children with their parents and/or a family member. In situations where one parent is at fault, the Caseworker will often require that the offending parent move out of the home so that the children can remain in a familiar location.

Once a report of child abuse or neglect has been received, the County has 60 days within which to investigate and enter a finding. There are three possible outcomes: (1) unfounded (case is closed with no further proceedings; (2) inconclusive; or (3) founded.

If the Department determines that the report is “founded,” the County can choose to open a formal dependency or neglect proceeding in court, though this does not always happen. If no court case is opened, you will receive a letter informing you of your right to appeal the finding.

For more information dependency and neglect proceedings in court, please see my blog post here.

Has a child abuse allegation been made against you? I’m here to help.