Child Protective Services Lawyer Near You
The Child Protective Services (CPS) is a government agency that responds to allegations and reports of child abuse or neglect by the parents, guardians, or other family or household members of the child. Contrary to popular belief, the goal of the CPS is not to take children out of the custody and care of their parents; it is to protect their safety and well-being. However, if it is determined that the child is in danger, or being mistreated, the CPS could remove the child from the custody of his or her parent. Therefore, if you are being investigated for abusing, endangering, or neglecting your child, it is important to contact a Franklin County domestic violence attorney who can help defend you.
Columbus CPS Defense Attorney for Child Protective Services Cases
If accusations of child abuse or neglect have led to an investigation by the Child Protective Services in Franklin County, or any of the surrounding counties in Ohio, including Pickaway County, Madison County, Delaware County, Licking County and Fairfield County, contact the Joslyn Law Firm for a consultation at (614) 444-1900. Brian Joslyn is an experienced criminal defense attorney who has knowledge on how the CPS works, and he will fight to clear you of any CPS violations that have been levied against you, allowing you and your family to get back to your lives.
Child Protective Services in Ohio
- Ohio CPS Investigation Process
- Accusations Leading to a CPS Investigation
- What Can I do if I am Being Investigated by the CPS?
- Helping Clients Accused of Child Abuse or Neglect in Madison County
Ohio CPS Investigation Process
The role of a CPS caseworker is to investigate to determine if the accusation of abuse has any validity. In order to determine if the child or parents are in need of help, the CPS will send a caseworker to the home of the child to conduct a thorough examination of the child, parents, and home. The CPS investigation process will include, among other things:
- Interview the child
- Interview the parents
- Examine the child for any noticeable injuries
- Take note of safety concerns
- Access the child’s health and overall well-being
When necessary, the CPS will refer the parents to child help services, which can help solve problems the parents and children are dealing with. Some of these services can include counseling, mental evaluation, treatment, and other appropriate recommendations.
Accusations Leading to a CPS Investigation
A CPS investigation can arise from a variety of allegations. Some of the most common allegations that lead to an investigation include child abuse, child endangerment, and neglect. These are defined as: According to O.R.C. §2151.031, child abuse occurs when any child is the victim of sexual activity, is endangered, or suffers mental or physical injuries because of the acts of his or her parents or guardians. O.R.C. §2919.22 states that a child is endangered if he or she is abused, tortured, receives corporal punishment, repeatedly receives unwarranted disciplinary measures, enticed or coerced into participating in the production or creation of sexual or obscene material, or is a passenger in a vehicle being driving by an individual who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Under O.R.C. § 2151.03, a child is considered to be neglected if he or she is abandoned by his or her parents. This can consist of the child not being provided with adequate food, clothing, medical attention, or overall parental care.
What Can I Do if I am Being Investigated by the CPS?
In cases where a parent or guardian is accused of abusing, endangering, or neglecting the child, CPS may have the authority to remove the child from the custody of the alleged offender. Even if these accusations are false or exaggerated, the CPS will open an investigation that could put an immense amount of stress on your family. If the CPS is investigating you or has taken your child out of your custody due to allegations of child abuse or neglect, it is imperative that you hire a Franklin County defense attorney immediately. Defending yourself against these allegations and clearing your name is the most important step you can take towards getting your family life in order.
Contact A CPS Defense Attorney Near You
We help clients accused of child abuse or neglect in Madison County. If you have been accused of improperly caring for your child and the CPS is now investigating you, contact the Joslyn Law Firm at (614) 444-1900 to schedule a consultation and find out what he can do to help you. The first step in getting your life back together is clearing your name of the charges against you. Joslyn Law Firm serves clients in and around Pickaway County, Madison County, Delaware County, Licking County, Franklin County, and Fairfield County.
