The Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) primarily exists to investigate child abuse and neglect allegations. Typically, investigators have a maximum of 45 days to scrutinize these allegations and determine whether to substantiate them. However, through ongoing services, investigators can continue monitoring your family after this 45-day window.
DCF may choose to keep your case open for ongoing services even when the allegations against you were not substantiated. This is often an invasive process, so it is important to discuss your options with a skilled attorney. Our team at the Law Offices of Mark Sherman can advise you on how to deal with a DCF ongoing services case in Wilton.
In DCF investigations, there are generally two distinct outcomes: Either the allegations against you are substantiated, or the case is dismissed. Ongoing services represent a third option, where investigators believe that there is still cause for concern despite being unable to substantiate any allegations before the end of the investigatory period.
In this scenario, investigators can forward your case to an ongoing services supervisor. Even when there is not enough evidence to open a neglect petition, this approach allows the department to continue intruding into your life. The supervisor can make surprise home visits, conduct more interviews, and set up case plans.
Just as with the initial investigation, in Wilton, you are not obliged to submit to case plans or comply with ongoing DCF services. However, the department may pursue a neglect petition if you refuse to comply.
If investigators do not substantiate the allegations of abuse made against you, you might initially be relieved. However, the reality is that DCF can continue to interfere in your life even after an investigation has closed. If agents refer you for ongoing services and ultimately find you noncompliant, they can still petition for your children to be removed from your home.
Because of these life-altering consequences, it is important to talk to a Wilton attorney if DCF refers you for ongoing case management. Our team can work to bring this process to an end and remove the stress and intrusion from your life.
In general, you have limited power in bringing ongoing services to an end. Investigators have leeway when it comes to monitoring your family to ensure there is no longer any risk of abuse or neglect. However, there is a process for petitioning the court to remove this monitoring. These cases can be complex, so it is helpful to have a dedicated attorney’s support.
Other factors can also bring an end to DCF monitoring, whether agents agree to it or not. These are practical matters, such as when a family moves to another state. Ongoing services will also end if the case is transferred to a different agency or if, for some reason, DCF loses jurisdiction.
Our Wilton attorneys can review your case and advise you on your options for removing your family from ongoing DCF services.
Before you assume that you have no more options, let our attorneys explain how we can help. We have extensive experience and can assist with your DCF ongoing services case in Wilton. You may be able to bring this level of scrutiny to an end and return peace to your home.
See our 300+ verified reviews to learn how we can help, and contact Mark Sherman Law today to schedule a consultation.
