The Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) investigates accusations of child abuse or neglect. DCF agents speak with parents, request medical records, and determine whether children are being mistreated. Unfortunately for parents who have done nothing wrong, this process can take some time.
While intrusions from state investigators can be frustrating, the positive news is that they have a limited amount of time to evaluate your case. At the Law Offices of Mark Sherman, our attorneys can help you develop a defense strategy and answer any questions about the length of a New Canaan DCF investigation.
Before you can understand the time limits of a DCF investigation in New Canaan, it is important to know how their investigations take place. Agents typically open an investigation within 72 hours, following an anonymous tip or report from a mandated reporter. In cases where children are in immediate danger, matters can start moving much faster.
Once DCF has opened an investigation, agents will make contact with the parents right away. This is usually done without any warning, resulting in state investigators arriving at your door unannounced. They could ask to speak with you and your children immediately, although in many cases, they will agree to wait until you have a chance to talk with an attorney.
There is a time limit that applies to DCF investigations. These deadlines are in place to prevent investigations from continuing for months or years, as this level of intrusion can be harmful to a child. While a deadline is generally a positive thing for parents, the disadvantage is that investigators could choose to substantiate allegations against you when that time runs out if they feel they have not had a chance to rule out abuse.
In general, investigators must complete their investigations within 45 calendar days. By the end of this period, they must either substantiate allegations of abuse or neglect against you or dismiss the case. It is worth noting that an exception exists for teachers who are under investigation. In that scenario, the state has 33 business days to conclude an investigation.
It might not be immediately obvious how long a DCF investigation in New Canaan could last. Reach out to an attorney to allow them to assist you with ending these proceedings favorably and quickly.
In New Canaan, one way to extend the duration of a DCF investigation is through an appeal. If the investigation results in a substantiation of abuse or neglect against you, you have the right to file an appeal. While this offers you the chance to reverse an initial decision, it also makes the process longer.
There is a 30-day window for filing an appeal. When you combine that with the amount of time it can take to receive an appellate decision, these cases can continue for months. The good news is that an attorney can advise you on whether an appeal is in your best interest.
If you have questions about the length of a New Canaan DCF investigation, now is the right time to ask. The team at Mark Sherman Law can answer your questions and make sure that you are treated fairly.
With more than 300 five-star reviews from past clients, our firm is proud of the work we do. To learn how we can help, contact us as soon as possible for a private consultation.
