Peter Blair | February 22, 2023 | Domestic Violence
Being subjected to an intervention by Child Protective Services (CPS) can be a scary and overwhelming experience. CPS is an organization in California that is committed to safeguarding children from abuse and neglect while ensuring they are safe and taken care of. If you’re accused of domestic violence, it’s important to know when CPS will get involved and the steps you must take if this occurs.
What Does CPS Do in California?
CPS is dedicated to protecting children from potential harm. They offer various services like investigations, assessments/interventions, family preservation programs, foster care placements, and adoption services aimed at preserving children’s safety while providing much-needed support.
CPS is not just there to protect children from harm but also to assist families in need. They can refer families to counseling centers or parenting classes, as well as help them get access to housing and other necessities. Furthermore, if necessary, they can connect families with legal and healthcare professionals and substance abuse treatment.
How CPS Becomes Involved in Cases Involving Domestic Violence
If an allegation of abuse, neglect, or exploitation is reported against a child or family, CPS is obligated to investigate it. Such reports usually come from mandated reporters like teachers, doctors, police officers, or other agencies or community members. Emergency Response staff then assess whether further action is necessary and if a personal visit will be required.
If it is determined that an in-person visit is required, CPS will go to the home. They will intervene if there is an imminent crisis that poses a threat to the safety of the child. If there is not an immediate threat, they will assess any issues within the home and collect information from all parties involved before making decisions about possible removal or foster care placement.
The ultimate aim is to ensure a child’s safety while supporting them to stay in their own home, with appropriate help available as necessary. If CPS decides that foster placement is the safest option, the child will be placed with another family member or a foster parent until their home environment is deemed safe for them to return.
What To Do If Your Child Is Taken from You
The thought of having a child removed by CPS can be incredibly overwhelming. It’s important to know your rights and the steps to take in order to get your child back home quickly and safely.
Remain Calm and Avoid Confrontation With CPS Officials
It can be difficult to remain calm when you find out your child has been taken away by CPS, especially if allegations of abuse or neglect are present. However, it is essential that you remain composed during any interactions with CPS personnel. Becoming confrontational or arguing can have severe repercussions for your case.
Attend All Relevant Hearings
Once all relevant paperwork has been filed and both sides have presented arguments at court hearings, it will then be up to a judge or jury to decide whether a parent retains custody of their children after they were taken away by CPS.
Parents must attend all relevant hearings related to their case. Missing out on these could result in serious repercussions, such as losing parental rights altogether.
Hire an Experienced Attorney To Represent You in Proceedings
The legal process surrounding CPS cases can often be complex and confusing. Because of this, it’s highly recommended that parents hire an experienced attorney who understands criminal law, domestic violence, and family law matters, like parental rights and responsibilities and how Child Protective Services works.
Consult an Experienced San Diego Domestic Violence Attorney for Help Dealing With CPS
If you’ve been charged with domestic violence and child protective services is involved, working with an experienced San Diego criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference. A lawyer will have an intimate understanding of relevant state laws and know how to pursue a positive ruling from the judge.
If you’re facing charges for domestic violence, drug crimes or any kind of criminal charges, call us.
Contact a San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer at Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers Today For Help
For more information please contact the San Diego criminal defense attorneys at Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers for a free consultation, give us a call at (619) 357-4977 or visit our convenient location:
Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers – San Diego
255 Broadway, Ste 1740. San Diego, CA. 92101
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