When the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (“DCF”) contacts you, it can be tempting to avoid answering the phone or opening the door. Many parents hope that ignoring DCF will make the problem disappear. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Failing to respond to DCF could actually create bigger challenges for your family. It may even escalate a situation.
Understanding what happens if you ignore DCF in Connecticut is important to protect your rights and your children’s well-being. At The Law Offices of Mark Sherman, LLC, our attorneys understand how stressful DCF involvement can feel. By working with us, you gain experienced advocates who know how these investigations work.
DCF is a state agency with the authority to investigate reports of child abuse or neglect. Once a case is opened, investigators are required to take certain actions, whether or not you cooperate. Refusing to respond to DCF does not stop an investigation. If caseworkers cannot reach you, they may attempt unannounced visits, speak with your child at school, or contact other relatives. If the situation escalates, DCF may ask a judge for a court order to enter your home or require your participation.
In short, ignoring the agency may lead to more invasive actions. Instead of avoiding communication, it is generally better to respond strategically with the help of an attorney.
If DCF shows up at your home unannounced, you do not have to let them into your home. You can refuse to let them in and decline their request to interview your children. You can also allow DCF to see your children, but not to speak with them. It is best not to give the agency permission to ask you or your children questions until you have spoken with an attorney.
However, you should not refuse entry if DCF has a valid 96-hour hold, a court order, or they are with police officers who have a valid warrant. If you are in this situation, you should discuss your case with a lawyer immediately. A skilled attorney from our firm can help you decide what to say, when to say it, and how to provide documents or access in a way that protects your family.
If DCF has contacted you, the best thing to do is to call an attorney immediately. We are one of the only firms to have a former DCF investigator on staff, giving us a unique advantage. Our team has over 300+ certified reviews on our Avvo.com profile from people we have helped. At The Law Offices of Mark Sherman, LLC, we know how to be proactive during a DCF investigation. Call us today to schedule a consultation and learn why ignoring DCF in Connecticut is not the best option.
