In some ways, a DCF appeal is like a trial, where DCF has the burden of proving the allegations by a preponderance of the evidence (which means more likely than not). You can question DCF’s witnesses and call your own witnesses except, in most cases, the alleged child victim. You can use evidentiary exhibits to help defend yourself. However, the rules of evidence are much more relaxed, and DCF can rely on hearsay and evidence that might be inadmissible in court to try to prove its allegations.
