Denton Divorce Lawyer

Child Protective Services

In Texas, the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) oversees Child Protective Services, commonly shortened to CPS.

Roles of CPS

CPS is in charge of children for every step of the way if they are taken out of a bad living situation. CPS holds several important roles, including:

• Overseeing children in their own homes through methods like weekly visits
• Making the decision to remove a child from an unhealthy situation
• Removing a child from an abusive or neglectful home
• Placing a child in foster care
• Providing help to children in foster care as they mature into adults
• Helping children find homes through adoption

How CPS Process Works

CPS usually relies on tips from neighbors, friends, and relatives to gather information on possible child abuse or neglect. The person providing the tip is required to contact a law enforcement agency or DFPS, and then CPS investigates the situation. Following the initial investigation, the caseworker in charge may determine that additional services are necessary if the child is still at risk.

After the estimated 30-day investigation, a caseworker has to make several conclusions. First, he or she must decide if abuse or neglect did indeed occur. If so, the caseworker, with approval from superiors, develops a plan to protect the child, whether it means removing the child from the home or conducting in-home services and checkups to promote the safety of the child.

Contact Us

If a child whose parents are divorced has been found by the CPS to be abused or neglected, his or her custody may need to be changed. For more information on changing child custody or visitation rights, contact a knowledgeable Denton divorce lawyer at the firm of Alexander & Associates today at 972-420-6560.