Child Protective Services is a branch of the California state government that exists to provide child protection – often in cases of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Here’s what you need to know about when to call Child Protective Services in California.
Child Protective Services is the largest and most well-known system of intervention for child abuse and neglect in the State of California. Its goal is to keep children safe in their own homes and to help them find alternatives if needed.
Reasons to Call Child Protective Services in California
Child Protective Services provides services to children and their families when children are suffering, or at risk of suffering from abuse, neglect, exploitation, or parental abuse.
California state law defines abuse to a child as any of the following:
- A child who is physically injured in any way that is not accidental
- A child who is subjected to intended cruelty or punishment that cannot be justified
- A child who is physically or sexually exploited
- A child who is neglected by a parent or primary caretaker – resulting in a lack of food, clothes, shelter, medical care, or supervision
Related: Child Protective Services (CPS) Laws in California
What Does Child Protective Services Do?
When a report is filed with Child Protective Services, social services staff members evaluate the referral to determine if the situation includes signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. If the situation is decided to include abuse, neglect, or exploitation, Child Protective Services accepts the case and intervenes if necessary. Depending on the situation, Family Preservation and Support Services may also be granted. Child Protective Services then assesses the issues, before developing plans to provide resources to the child and their family. The case is documented and then either terminated or turned over to another department.
When the child in question remains in their home following the referral, the child is given services for approximately one year, before Child Protective Services evaluates whether or not they can continue living in their home. If it is determined that it is in the child’s best interest to be moved, the child is placed in foster care.
When the child in question moves from their home following the referral, and the family is working towards reunification, the child is given services for approximately one and a half years. At that point, Child Protective Services evaluates whether or not they can be reunified with their family. If it is determined that it is in the child’s best interest to be moved, the child is placed in foster care.
Related: What CPS Can and Cannot Do in California
FAQs
When can I call Child Protective Services?
Child Protective Services has a 24-hour emergency response phone number. The phone numbers differ based on the county in which one resides. A list of the phone numbers can be found on the California Department of Social Services website.
Who else can I call besides Child Protective Services if I suspect child abuse, neglect, or exploitation?
While Child Protective Services has a 24-hour emergency response phone number in each California state county, you may also contact the police department or county sheriff.
If I file a referral to Child Protective Services, do I have to include my name?
No. You can remain completely anonymous when filing a report of child abuse or neglect. Community members play a crucial part in protecting children from abuse and neglect, so it is not required for community members or other individuals to include their names in any reports they file of child abuse or neglect.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one is seeking more information on when to call Child Protective Services in California, contact us.Get your free consultation with one of our California Family Law Attorneys today!