What You Need to Know About Child Protective Services in California
Child Protective Services (CPS) is responsible for investigating, evaluating, and halting any cases in which a child may be experiencing any type of abuse or neglect. Here are 10 things to know about CPS in California.
The purpose of Child Protective Services is to protect children from these negative encounters and provide them with safe and nurturing homes. States vary in their welfare and services programs for children, but all Child Protective Services agencies must comply with state and federal laws.
10 Things to Know About California CPS
1. Child Protective Services Has Several Objectives in California
The objectives of CPS are as follows:
- Intervene in a crisis if needed
- Provide families with Support Services and Family Preservation Services
- Identify problems within a household and clarify the facts surrounding those problems
- Set goals and timeframes for child safety goals
- Document all details regarding every case
- Terminate cases or transfer the case to another program that may be of greater help
2. California CPS Dedicates Large Amounts of Time to Each Case
Family can receive up to 12 months of services from CPS. Up to 18 months of services are given to those children that have been removed from a home that has been deemed unfit to raise a child and has the goal of reunification.
Related: California CPS Investigation Process
3. California CPS Arranges Foster Care if Necessary
In California, Child Protective Services may provide a foster home for children who cannot remain in their home even with Family and Support Services. This arrangement is typically close to the family’s home and is consistent with the interests of the child.
4. California CPS Can Apply to Children in Many Different Situations
Children in varying situations may require help from CPS: a child that has been physically injured, a child that has been subjected to unjustifiable punishment, a child that has been sexually abused, a child that has been neglected of care.
5. Community Members Have an Important Role in CPS in California
Members of the community can protect children from abuse and neglect. They can report instances to qualified agencies when they suspect abuse or neglect has been occurring within a household.
6. CPS in California Relies on the California State Child Abuse Reporting Law
The California State Child Abuse Reporting Law gives CPS and other public agencies the legal basis for their intervention when a child is being abused.
Related: Child Protective Services (CPS) Laws in California
7. The Main Goal of CPS in California is to Keep Families Together
CPS provides services to families to change their behavior towards children. The ultimate goal of these services is to have families reunited. The foster care system is considered a last resort.
8. Parents Have the Right to Listen to All Court Cases Regarding Their Children
In California, parents have the right to attend all of the court cases regarding their child, even if their child has been taken away from them. They also can deny any allegations and have the right to an attorney.
9. CPS in California Can Spy on a Family
Although unlikely due to expense, CPS can hire a private investigator to gather information about suspected abuse. This provides them with a clearer picture regarding the child’s home life and better protects the child from potential abuse.
Related: What CPS Can and Cannot Do in California
10. If CPS Wishes to Speak to Your Child at Home, They Must Obtain Permission
CPS can only speak to your child at home if they have a court warrant or if a parent allows them to enter your home and question their child. If no one is home, they might leave their card and ask to give them a call.
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If you would like to know more about CPS in California, contact us. Get your free consultation with one of our Family Law Attorneys today!