If a family is subject to investigation by CPS or ACS and they realize they have done nothing wrong, it often creates a state of shock to the individuals being investigated. However, whether the families are in shock or not, they need to take protective action.
The Investigation
Families being investigated by CPS or ACS need to take action to avoid losing their children. If you are not sure what CPS or ACS would think is child neglect, child abuse or child maltreatment, you should not speak to a CPS or ACS worker without first speaking to a CPS or ACS defense attorney. If CPS or ACS is investigating you, you should ask them to meet with friends, relatives or other individuals who know you, who can tell them about the quality of your parenting and the type of dedicated parents that you are. You should include neighbors, religious figures from your church, synagogue or mosque, school officials or any other individuals who can provide you with an excellent character reference. You should keep any records with regard to the child’s visits to the pediatrician. You should keep report cards from your children.
What You Should Never Do
Never give original documents to CPS or ACS workers. Always maintain detailed written notes concerning any contacts you have with a CPS or ACS worker. This should include the name, contact information of the worker, the worker’s supervisor, the dates of such contact and what information you provided, if any, to the CPS or ACS worker.
The law office of Schlissel DeCorpo LLP are parents’ advocates and defenders of CPS and ACS investigations can be reached at 516-561-6645, 718-350-2802, 631-319-8262, or 914-998-0082 or by e-mail at info@sdnylaw.com.
