What Should I Do If I Was Accused of Child Abuse or Neglect By the DCFS?

 Posted on May 25, 2023 in Family Law

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) investigates allegations of child abuse or neglect in Illinois. Anybody from a neighbor to a child's teacher may report suspicions of abuse or neglect to the DCFS.

If you have been accused of neglecting or abusing your child, you may feel shocked and dismayed. For parents, few things are as devastating as being accused of harming your own child. Furthermore, the DCFS has the right to remove a child from your home if there is evidence that the child is in immediate danger, and a DCFS investigation can have long-term implications regardless of the outcome of the investigation.

Contact an Attorney for Personalized Guidance

DCFS investigators are not police officers, and being investigated for possible child abuse or neglect by the DCFS is not the same as being charged with a crime. However, individuals who are being investigated by the DCFS still have the right to an attorney. It is best to contact an attorney with experience in DCFS matters as soon as possible. Your attorney can provide personalized guidance and help you handle the situation.

Possible Outcomes of a DCFS Investigation

DCFS investigators may interview you, your child, and other children in your care. They may visit your home and look for any hazards that could present a danger to a child. In rare cases, a DCFS agent may have the child immediately removed from the home, but this only occurs if there is evidence that a child is in immediate danger.

If the investigator determines that there are safety concerns, but there is no need to immediately remove the child, you may be asked to agree to a safety plan. The safety plan may ask you to have another individual, such as a family member, watch the child until any dangerous circumstances are remedied.

The investigation will continue, and the DCFS will gather additional evidence. You have 15 days to present your own testimony or evidence and tell your side of the story. The DCFS will complete the investigation within 60 days. The allegations of abuse or neglect will either be “indicated,” meaning that there is evidence of abuse or neglect, or “unfounded,” meaning there was not evidence of abuse or neglect. You will be notified in writing of the DCFS's finding. At this point, you have 60 days to file an appeal. Make sure you work with an experienced attorney during your DCFS appeal, as these cases can be very complicated and emotionally charged.

Call our Naperville DCFS Lawyers for Help

If you were accused of child abuse or neglect and are now being investigated by the DCFS, contact our Naperville family law attorneys for help. We will ensure that your rights are protected and help you handle the situation in the best way possible. Call our office today at 630-657-5052 and set up a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=29438