A Newtown DCF investigation has firm deadlines. In Connecticut, The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is tasked with investigating allegations of abuse or neglect. DCF begins its investigation immediately when it is reported, and they are required by law to reach a conclusion of their investigations in a relatively short period of time.
If you are under investigation by DCF, you could benefit from a discussion with an experienced attorney. The outcome of these cases can have serious consequences, including intervention in your children’s lives and even criminal charges against you.
The Connecticut Department of Children and Families has several roles, which include investigations of allegations of child abuse or neglect. Employees of this agency conduct investigations that can have extensive consequences and potentially lead to criminal charges.
The way these investigations begin differs by how they are reported. In many cases, DCF will be notified following a domestic violence arrest where children are either victims or present when the incident occurred. In other cases, an anonymous tip or a report from a mandatory reporter alleging abuse or neglect might prompt an investigation.
The nature of the allegations can also vary. Many times, agents are called in when physical abuse is suspected. DCF also investigates sexual abuse or neglect. There are some circumstances where multiple types of abuse are investigated at once. The type of the allegations can impact the time length of a DCF investigation in Newtown.
DCF has specific deadlines for starting and ending investigations. DCF Agents are required to act immediately following a report, and they are required to conclude their investigation within 45 days. Despite these requirements, the length of a DCF investigation in Newtown can vary to a degree.
DCF must open a case following a credible report of abuse or neglect immediately. This usually means within 24 to 72 hours, although agents will move much faster in an emergency. When the police are involved, case agents will often also arrive at the scene.
DCF officers are allowed 45 days to conduct and conclude their investigation. The forty-five-day deadline is designed to avoid a delay that could jeopardize a child’s health or welfare. Unfortunately, it can lead agents to rush to conclusions. Having the support of an attorney is crucial during this time.
Once the investigation concludes, DCF agents will either substantiate the allegations or determine that they are not credible. Substantiating claims of abuse can lead to criminal charges. They can also result in immediate action taken against the parents or guardians related to their parental rights. In some cases, the children may be removed from the family home. In others, DCF agents may take on an intrusive role by remaining in a family’s life, past 45-days, as they address these accusations.
The longer these cases drag on, the more impact they can have on you and your family. A set deadline to conclude a Newtown DCF investigation does not mean a favorable outcome. It can mean the opposite of that. You can benefit from working with legal counsel who understands how to resolve these cases favorably. Call today for a confidential consultation with a knowledgeable attorney. Call Mark Sherman Law as soon as possible for a private consultation to discuss your case, and click here to view what past clients have said about working with our team.
