In Connecticut, it is up to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to investigate allegations of neglect or abuse. Its agents will conduct an inquiry into these claims before recommending a course of action that could eventually lead to criminal charges.
If you are in this situation, it is crucial that you protect your rights during a Newtown DCF investigation. Understanding the tools available to you can improve your chances of obtaining a fair outcome. This is especially true when you rely on the guidance of a dedicated DCF investigation attorney.
Many Newtown residents do not realize they have the right to remain silent during DCF inquiries. These are not criminal investigations, and state agents cannot compel you to answer questions or otherwise cooperate. There is nothing that prevents you from refusing to speak to investigators.
That said, it is important to carefully consider your options in this situation. You might not be required to comply, but your failure to do so can have negative consequences. If you do not cooperate with DCF agents, the state might have no choice but to substantiate the allegations against you.
There are times when the best option is to cooperate. Thankfully, an attorney can help you determine the right course of action.
If you refuse to cooperate with a DCF investigation, there could be consequences. However, you have the right to ask for additional time to find and speak with a lawyer, and Newtown DCF authorities cannot hold that against you in their investigation.
This is important, as most investigations are initiated quietly. Many people only learn that DCF is investigating them when agents appear at their home and make contact. This can take some parents by surprise, leading them to answer questions without talking to an attorney first.
If child services investigators in Newtown substantiate allegations of abuse or neglect, you have the right to appeal their decision. You have up to 30 days to request an internal review of the findings.
Filing an appeal is often worthwhile because the state is held to a higher standard of proof than DCF agents are. That means the evidence that was enough to lead to a substantiation might not survive the appeals process.
When Newtown DCF is investigating accusations of abuse or neglect made against you, you are entitled to be informed of the nature of these allegations. This includes detailed information on why the investigation began, though DCF will not share the source of the original complaint.
If you are facing allegations of child abuse, contact an attorney right away to help you understand how the law can protect you. You have extensive rights during a Newtown DCF investigation, and an attorney can ensure they are protected.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make during this process is attempting to enforce your rights alone. Working with experienced legal counsel can help protect your parental rights and increase the likelihood of a successful defense. Contact our dedicated attorneys at Mark Sherman Law to learn more about your legal rights as a parent and read some of the 300+ certified reviews from satisfied past clients on our Avvo.com profile by clicking here.
