Parent Defense (Juvenile/CPS/DSS)

Click to learn more about Child Protective Services, Social Services investigations or cases

Have you been contacted by a local Department of Social Services or Child Protective Services? Now is the time to contact a lawyer and Attorney Jasmine can help you. 

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Q&A:

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What should I do if I get a phone call from CPS? 

First and foremost, try not to panic. While it may seem evasive to your home and family to have someone inquiring about your day-to-day life, it is important to remember that the social workers (like so many of us) have a job to do. 

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If you believe you need representation, you have every right to consult with or have an attorney present for any meetings, home visits, or child/family planning team meetings

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What does it mean if a "Juvenile Petition" has been filed against me (or my family)?

A juvenile abuse/neglect/dependency petition is a civil action initiated by the state with the goal of protecting children from alleged family harm. This process has several steps and may or may not include the removal of your children and placement in foster care or with a "temporary safety placement," which may be a family member or friend. 

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Once a Juvenile Petition has been initiated, you will be provided with provisional counsel that may later be confirmed for you at the first hearing if you are found to be indigent (similar to a criminal case). 

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Why should I retain an attorney?

Regardless of your circumstances, there is always a benefit to having a seasoned attorney on your side to advocate for you and the best interest of your children. While these situations are complicated, having the right person on your side who understands your story and can constructively portray that in a court of law can make all the difference.