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What Are My Rights During a DCF Investigation?
Has DCF shown up at your door unannounced? Do you want to cooperate with them? The help of an experienced Connecticut DCF investigation attorney can be instrumental in informing you of your rights while helping you work with DCF towards a positive resolution of your case.
What are My Rights When DCF Shows Up at My Door?Oftentimes, DCF will show up for the first time unannounced. After receiving allegations from the police, from the anonymous tip hotline, or from a mandated reporter DCF begins an investigation very early on. When DCF comes to you, you have the right to ask them to come back so that you can find a lawyer. Further, once DCF is inside and talking to your family, you have a right to remain silent. DCF may not advise families of this right, which could lead to information being shared that could later come back to bite the parents during a neglect petition or substantiation finding.
Do I Have to Let DCF Talk to My Kids?No. You do not need to allow DCF to speak to your children. However, if you do not allow DCF to speak to your children, this could raise a red flag. Having a DCF attorney to consult with can be instrumental in making the decision whether or not to allow DCF to speak to your children.
How Can a Lawyer Help During an Investigation?A lawyer can help in many ways during the DCF investigation process. When DCF first comes to your house, you can ask to reschedule until you can speak to a lawyer. At that point a lawyer can help you answer DCF’s questions in a way that is helpful but not unnecessarily revealing. Further, they can be there to explain the rights you have that DCF will not necessarily inform you of.
What Are My Options After a DCF Investigation?If your case proceeds and allegations are substantiated, an attorney can help you to appeal those findings in an effort to keep your name clear. During an appeal hearing, gathering evidence and witnesses quickly and efficiently is important and an attorney can help you to do so. If you have already had allegations substantiated against you and are looking to appeal to learn more about DCF appeals, click here.
Contact a DCF Investigation Attorney TodayHaving an advocate by your side during the course of a DCF investigation can be helpful to protecting you and your family’s rights. To learn more about how a DCF investigation lawyer can help you, contact Mark Sherman Law today.
