Welcome back to this series on how to handle a CPS worker that shows up unannounced at you door, demanding to come in. In the previous two articles we talked about the importance of being polite in all your interactions with CPS, and why CPS would need a warrant to enter your home. Moving on, we’re going to look at how these laws apply to other “orders” from CPS.
Not everything CPS tells you is true!
In the same way that a CPS worker will try to force you to let them into your house (and likely threaten you if you refuse), these tactics are sometimes used to achieve other ends. For example, CPS workers will also sometimes try to convince you or coerce you into coming to their office to talk to them. Or worse, bring your children to the County DHHS headquarters to be interviewed.
Let’s get a few things straight. You DO NOT HAVE TO go to the CPS office and discuss anything with them unless your attorney is present and has advised you to do so. You also DO NOT HAVE TO take your kids down to the CPS office to be interviewed or questioned. Not unless you have been served a legal court order demanding that you do.
Who can order you to show up for a CPS interview?
Despite the fact that CPS workers will use all kinds of threats and dark promises, only a judge or magistrate can issue an order that you are compelled to obey. And even then, that order will only be issued if there is evidence that you’ve committed a crime. Unfortunately, most people assume that CPS ‘orders’ are the same as court orders – mandatory and unavoidable – which is exactly what CPS wants you to believe. But that’s simply NOT TRUE!
What if the police want to interview you?
If the police want to talk to you about a child abuse or neglect related matter, you can assume that they are building a case against you. You should also assume that CPS is somewhere in the mix as well, and will be showing up at your door in the near future (if they haven’t already!) As we’ve pointed out before, it’s critical that you NEVER agree to speak to a police officer unless your attorney is present! Even if that discussion is over the phone, or “an information chat” n your couch. Always have your attorney with you when dealing with the police!
Keep a list of phone numbers for CPS emergencies.
We’ve reached the end of our list of suggestions, but it wouldn’t be complete without this one – a phone list. Compile a list of phone numbers that are readily accessible to you in the event of a CPS confrontation. Write these numbers down and put them somewhere safe but available. Also, be sure to program these numbers into your phone, so that you have them with you whenever and wherever the need arises.
Examples of phone numbers you need to have available would be:
- Your spouse or partner
- A trusted friend or family member who would be willing to step in and be a witness for any CPS interactions you are required to have in or outside of your home.
- A friend or family member who would be willing to take your children at a moment’s notice, no questions asked, if you are arrested or CPS removes your children from your custody
- Your attorney’s number
Do you need an aggressive CPS defense attorney now?
if you or a loved one have been contacted by CPS, or suspect you may be the subject of an abuse or neglect investigation, call The Kronzek Firm immediately at 866 766 5245. The sooner you have an experienced CPS defense attorney on your side, fighting to protect your family, the better! We are available around the clock to help you, so don’t try to do this alone!