The possibility of a Department of Children and Families (DCF) investigation can be a source of concern for parents and guardians. Understanding the process that case workers follow while looking into a report of child abuse and neglect may help alleviate some of your concerns.
Our experienced DCF attorneys at Mark Sherman Law can help you understand the steps taken in a DCF investigation. Call today to learn more about what you can expect if the agency ever contacts you.
In Connecticut, the first step in a DCF investigation is receiving a report. This information is typically divulged via the agency’s toll-free Careline. The Careline social worker collects and documents all the information and a supervisor determines whether a Child Protective Services (CPS) response is required. If a CPS response is required, the social worker supervisor will forward the report to a case worker in an area office for immediate attention. Once a case worker receives notice of an allegation, they have only a couple of hours to one day to screen the report, depending on its severity.
In this step of the review, a DCF case worker will typically attempt to make contact with parents or guardians within three business days for a non-emergency investigation. In an emergency situation where there is a concern over an imminent risk of physical harm to a child the DCF caseworker must attempt to make contact within two hours of receiving the report. While personnel may call you before a home visit to begin the investigation, it is more likely they will opt to meet face-to-face at your home instead.
The goal of this step in the investigation is for DCF personnel to interview the caregivers and the child and observe their living conditions and home environment. Agency staff may also speak with other family members, as well as collateral witnesses, such as neighbors, teachers, doctors, and clergy members. Case workers will also gather information, including previous DCF reports, your criminal history records, and health and school records (with a signed release).
Based on the DCF case worker’s findings in step three, the department’s Commissioner will decide whether or not to substantiate the report, in other words, make a finding that abuse or neglect has occurred. If so, the case may proceed to a court hearing, or the family may receive assistance and other supportive services. When the claims of abuse or neglect are deemed unsubstantiated, DCF will close the case.
Contact us at the Law Offices of Mark Sherman to learn more about the steps in a DCF investigation. Even if the agency has not reached out to you, we will answer your questions.
We are the only law firm in our area that has a former DCF investigator on staff, which ensures we are well-versed in the process of these investigations and how to defend against harmful allegations. If you need more reasons to call, visit our Avvo profile. With more than 300 certified reviews from previous clients, it is easy to see we have what it takes to fight for your rights.
