Most people are shocked when they learn that they are being investigated by the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF). This agency probes into allegations of child abuse and neglect. Their initial visits to parents or other investigative targets often happen without warning.
If you are in this situation, you can benefit from discussing your options with a Brookfield DCF investigation lawyer. Do not put yourself at risk; having a dedicated DCF defense attorney from Mark Sherman Law on your side can help bring this unfortunate process to a close.
DCF is contacted when there is a suspicion that a child is being abused, neglected or both. The agency’s mission is to address and prevent child abuse or neglect. Several factors can lead to a DCF investigation. The agents first examine each report they receive, and determine whether a report meets the statutory criteria for abuse or neglect. If it does, the report is forwarded to a DCF case investigator for further action.
Some investigations stem from anonymous tips. Anyone can report allegations of abuse to DCF without providing their name or identifying information. DCF agents take these reports seriously and initiate many formal investigations because of them.
Not all reports are anonymous. Many individuals are considered mandated reporters—persons who must immediately notify law enforcement if they are made aware of abuse accusations.
A person’s job determines their status as a mandatory reporter. Some of the professions that qualify as mandatory reporters include:
Failure to notify the state of an abuse or neglect incident has serious consequences for mandated reporters. If you are being investigated by DCF, the results of the investigation can be devastating for you and your family without the help of a Brookfield DCF defense lawyer.
When DCF case investigators receive an abuse or neglect report, they immediately assess whether a child may be in imminent risk. In some situations, like one of imminent risk, investigators may contact parents the same day the report is received. Sometimes, DCF can take immediate custody of a juvenile for 96 hours, and seek court intervention to take temporary custody of a juvenile because of the threat they face.
A DCF investigator will substantiate or dismiss allegations of abuse or neglect, based on the evidence collected. A competent DCF lawyer in Brookfield can explain what type of evidence is collected and can assist you when a report is filed against you.
DCF targets—generally the parents of the child in question—can be significantly impacted even if they are ultimately cleared of any wrongdoing. During an ongoing DCF investigation, DCF State agents may often contact friends, family, and coworkers for information about you. They can even seek permission to review medical records or speak with the child’s physician.
While this process is invasive, it does not last forever. DCF must conclude its investigation within a certain time period. While it is natural for you to resist their efforts, cooperating can represent the best chance of bringing these cases to a quick—and positive—end. A DCF investigation attorney in Brookfield can guide you on how to proceed.
If you have been notified that you are under investigation, now is the time to act. You are entitled to the support of an attorney, and the state will briefly pause its investigation to allow you to speak to one. Contact a Brookfield DCF investigation lawyer as soon as possible to learn about your rights. Call Mark Sherman Law today to set up a meeting, and read some of the 300+ certified reviews from satisfied past clients on our Avvo.com profile by clicking here.
