Imagine you’re spending a quiet evening with your family, and there’s an unexpected knock at your door. Standing there is a Child Protective Services (CPS) investigator, ready to ask questions about your child’s well-being. For many parents, this moment can bring on a wave of panic, uncertainty, and even fear. You may wonder why they’re there, what they know, and what to say. It’s crucial to know that you have rights, and with guidance, you can protect both your family and your parental rights.

CPS investigations are more common than people think. Reports suggest that nearly 3.5 million children are subject to CPS investigations each year in the United States. Many cases do not result in findings of abuse or neglect, but the process is invasive, and handling it alone can be overwhelming.

At Daniel Ogbeide Law, a family law firm in Houston, we are experienced in supporting families through CPS investigations, ensuring that parents’ rights are safeguarded and their children’s best interests are a priority.

In this blog, we will guide you through the essential steps to take when CPS arrives, explaining how a skilled CPS attorney in Houston can be an invaluable asset throughout the process.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

When CPS arrives, it’s easy to feel pressured or intimidated. However, staying calm can help you make clear decisions and understand what’s happening. CPS may be there for various reasons, including a misunderstanding or an unsubstantiated report. Remember, you have the right to ask the CPS investigator questions, such as:

• Why are they visiting?
• Do they have a court order?
• Are they there for an investigation or simply to conduct a preliminary interview?

Step 2: Know Your Rights

One of the most critical things to remember is that, as a parent, you have rights during a CPS investigation. Knowing and exercising these rights can be instrumental in keeping your family safe. Here are some of the key rights to be aware of:

• Right to Remain Silent:While it’s essential to be cooperative, you are not required to answer every question immediately, especially without legal representation.
• Right to an Attorney:You have the right to contact a CPS attorney in Houston to represent you before answering any questions or permitting a home search.
• Right to Refuse Entry:Unless CPS has a warrant or court order, you can politely refuse entry to your home. Be firm but respectful when expressing this, and explain that you prefer to speak with your attorney first.

Understanding these rights helps you prevent any inadvertent self-incrimination or confusion during the initial visit.

Step 3: Document Every Interaction

When dealing with CPS, it’s essential to keep a detailed record of every interaction, including:

• Dates and Times of Visits: Make sure to note each instance of contact with CPS, whether it’s a home visit, phone call, or written communication.
• Names of CPS Personnel: Write down the names of the investigator or caseworker involved in your case. This is helpful for follow-up or legal action.
• Summary of Discussions: Summarize the key points discussed in each interaction. These records can serve as evidence and help your CPS attorney in Houston defend your rights if needed.

Step 4: Avoid Confrontational Language or Actions

While it’s natural to feel defensive when CPS arrives, a respectful demeanor can go a long way in establishing a cooperative relationship. Avoid any language or actions that may be misinterpreted as hostility or obstruction. Stick to clear, neutral statements, and defer to your CPS attorney for anything that feels overly complex or loaded with potential consequences.

Step 5: Prioritize Your Children’s Well-Being

Throughout the investigation, it’s essential to focus on your children’s well-being. Be honest with your children, but keep the explanation simple and age-appropriate. Reassure them that everything will be okay and that you are working to resolve the matter with the help of a family law attorney in Houston.

If CPS asks to speak to your child, you can request that a CPS attorney in Houston be present, particularly if there are concerns about how the questioning might affect your child. Remember, CPS may try to determine whether the child is in a safe environment, but you also have a responsibility to protect your child from distress or intimidation.

Step 6: Follow Up and Stay Informed

Once the initial investigation is complete, CPS may take weeks or even months to reach a conclusion. During this period, stay in contact with your CPS attorney to stay updated on your case’s progress and follow any recommended legal steps. With a lawyer’s guidance, you’ll understand the final decision and have a clear path forward, regardless of the outcome.

Does Your Family Need Help with CPS in Houston?

If you find yourself wondering how to protect your family in the face of a CPS investigation, reaching out to an experienced attorney is one of the most important steps you can take. At Daniel Ogbeide Law, we specialize in guiding Houston families through these stressful situations, protecting your parental rights and ensuring your child’s well-being throughout the process. With our deep knowledge of family law, we understand the complexities of CPS cases and are committed to standing by your side every step of the way.

Don’t let CPS jeopardize your rights.Contact Daniel Ogbeide Law today to work with a dedicated CPS attorney in Houston who will defend your family and provide the legal support you need.