When a DCF investigator knocks on your door, it can be scary and intimidating. Some DCF investigators may capitalize on parents’ fears and confusion and take advantage by overstepping their authority.
An attorney at the Law Offices of Mark Sherman will stand up for your rights during a Darien DCF investigation. If DCF comes to your home, politely refuse to engage and make an appointment to talk at a later time. Then, contact a skilled DCF defense attorney immediately to discuss your options and next steps.
It is important to understand that you are not obligated to do what DCF asks. When they arrive at your home, you do not have to let them in or speak to them, you do not have to sign an authorization, and you do not have to agree and sign a safety plan. Cooperativeness, however, may work against you.
The best strategy to handle an unexpected contact or visit from DCF, is to politely tell the investigator that it is not a good time and make an appointment for a later time that is more convenient. DCF will likely insist that the appointment be later that same day or within a day or two. Try to accommodate them if possible, but give yourself enough time to contact a lawyer before the scheduled appointment.
If you do speak with the investigator upon first contact, nothing you say to them will be confidential, and all of it can be used against you. They may ask you to sign an agreement or safety plan to avoid more serious consequences. You do not have to sign anything and should tell the investigator that you want to consult your Darien attorney before agreeing to anything.
Your most important right during a DCF investigation is having an attorney present. The presence of an attorney during a DCF interview can significantly impact the outcome of the case.
Your Darien DCF defense attorney can ensure the investigators’ questions are relevant to the matter. Without a legal representative present, investigators often ask questions that are not pertinent to the issues they are investigating.
The attorney can also be present when DCF interviews your children and other household members. The attorney can stop the interview if the investigator’s questions are inappropriate or if the children become upset.
When DCF is investigating your family, the investigators collect information from multiple sources. You are entitled to the information the investigators use to reach their decisions. If you have limited English proficiency, you are entitled to a translation of relevant documents and the presence of a translator during an interview and other meetings.
You have the right to present additional information that supports your position. A Darien DCF defense attorney can help you compile relevant information and present it to the investigators.
You also have the right to be present with your attorney at meetings and court hearings to discuss your case. At a hearing, you can offer evidence and witness testimony. You can also cross-examine DCF’s witnesses.
Nothing is more important than raising your children and keeping your family intact. Your family can be at risk if you do not assert your rights during a Darien DCF investigation.
The attorneys at Mark Sherman Law are skilled at managing DCF investigations. Spend a few minutes reading our reviews on our firm’s Avvo profile, and then reach out to schedule an appointment. Call today!
