The Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) is a state agency tasked with the responsibility of responding quickly to claims of child abuse and neglect and to safeguard a child’s well-being. Most people, when contacted by DCF investigators, are surprised to discover they are under investigation by DCF .
Unfortunately, investigators are often overly aggressive and can be an unwelcome part of your life, especially when the allegations are unfounded. Trying to resolve these issues without the assistance of an experienced and dedicated attorney can put you at risk. If you are in this situation, contact a Newtown DCF investigation lawyer at Mark Sherman Law for help.
One of the first things an attorney in Newtown will tell parents during a DCF investigation is that they are under no obligation to cooperate. The investigation is not a legal proceeding in which parents are under oath and are not at risk of arrest if they choose not to answer the investigator’s questions or provide requested documents.
Working with DCF agents is often the best option, and refusing to answer questions may force DCF to seek court intervention, as refusing to cooperate will not make the case disappear. Furthermore, the state can interpret a parent’s refusal to cooperate as a sign that the parent has something to hide, leading investigators to substantiate the allegations.
For most people, the right approach is to cooperate cautiously. An experienced lawyer can advise you when to or when not to answer questions and provide requested records or access to medical professionals.
DCF agents do not have unlimited time to investigate after an accusation of neglect or abuse. Typically, investigators must come to a final decision within 45 days. This deadline differs in several situations, including for teachers accused of wrongdoing.
This deadline exists to prevent agents from dragging out intrusive investigations against innocent people. With that said, experienced Newtown attorneys recognize that this deadline can also lead DCF investigators to rush to judgment in an effort to close a case by the deadline.
Law enforcement is not always involved in a DCF investigation, but DCF often works alongside the police following an allegation of abuse. In many situations, DCF investigators are called to the scene of a domestic disturbance where police are already present. Agents work with the officers to determine if any children at the scene require immediate intervention. While the police have the power to charge parents with a crime, they also must notify DCF if children appear unsafe.
If DCF substantiates an allegation of abuse, neglect or both, one potential consequence is criminal charges. The police can arrest you for Risk of Injury to a Minor, which is a serious offense. An attorney in Newtown can work with you to prevent a DCF investigation from reaching this point.
If you are under investigation on suspicion of abusing a child, your first call should be to an experienced Newtown DCF investigation lawyer. If the allegation is upheld, the consequences can be significant, including limitations on your parental rights and even criminal charges. Contact us at Mark Sherman Law today to learn more about your options and read some of the 300+ certified reviews from satisfied past clients on our Avvo.com profile by clicking here.
