Over the past several years, the Connecticut Department of Children and Families has shifted its policy regarding home visits. In the past, just about every referral resulted in an unscheduled knock on the door. Now, unannounced visits are largely reserved for cases in which DCF believes that a child may require immediate protection. For example, […]
Investigations of parents and caretakers by the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) for allegations of child abuse or neglect are serious matters that can have significant consequences for families. Too many parents react to a notice of a DCF investigation by downplaying the seriousness of the situation in the hopes that the investigator […]
When the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) receives a report of child abuse or neglect, they must take action. The agency has two options – open a full investigation into the matter or use its Family Assessment Response (FAR) System to help the family access various resources. Here’s what you need to know […]
When the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) receives a report of abuse or neglect, it will respond immediately. In most cases, the agency will launch an investigation, which can last up to 45 days and lead to DCF becoming a constant presence in your life. Unfortunately, too many parents react to DCF involvement […]
If the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) has made a finding of substantiation against you, you have the right to appeal the finding through a substantiation hearing. To help you exercise this right and protect your best interests throughout the process, working with a skilled DCF family law attorney is strongly recommended. At […]
Suspicions of child abuse or neglect are taken seriously in Connecticut. Like most states, Connecticut has a mandated reporter statute, which requires certain professionals to notify the state’s Department of Children and Families (DCF) of suspected abuse or neglect cases. This often triggers an investigation by the agency. But there can be massive complications when […]
Child neglect can take many forms. The failure to provide for a child’s basic survival needs, such as food, shelter, clothing, medical care, and hygiene, constitutes physical neglect. This type of neglect may also involve a disregard for a child’s safety, such as not providing adequate supervision. Educational neglect involves a parent’s failure to enroll […]
When a parent is unable to care for their children, guardianship may be necessary to deliver that care and guidance. Guardianship refers to another party being granted the legal authority to make decisions on behalf of someone else, such as a child. The court appoints the “guardian” as the decision-maker for the “protected person,” who […]
