Child Protective Services Attorneys in Hays County, Austin, Bastrop, and New Braunfels

Child Protective Services (CPS) is a state agency responsible for investigating allegations of child abuse or neglect and intervening when necessary to ensure a child’s safety. CPS can get involved for a variety of reasons, including concerns about physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, drug or alcohol abuse, or other harmful situations affecting a child’s well-being.

When CPS is called to investigate, it can be a difficult and intimidating process for parents. However, it’s important to know that CPS has a duty to act in the best interests of the child, and parents also have legal rights during the investigation and proceedings.

CPS may become involved in a family situation if there are allegations or concerns of any of the following:

• Physical Abuse: Injuries or bruises to a child that may be the result of intentional harm.
• Emotional Abuse: Behaviors or actions that cause emotional harm, including verbal abuse or neglect of emotional needs.
• Sexual Abuse: Any form of sexual abuse or exploitation.
• Neglect: Failure to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing, medical care, or supervision for the child.
• Substance Abuse: Drug or alcohol abuse that puts the child at risk or impairs a parent’s ability to provide safe care.
• Domestic Violence: Exposure to violence in the home or an environment that endangers a child’s safety.

The CPS investigation process can vary, but it generally involves several key steps:

1. Report of Abuse or Neglect: CPS typically becomes involved after a report of suspected abuse or neglect is made, either by a concerned individual (such as a teacher, doctor, or neighbor) or a family member.
2. Investigation: CPS will investigate the claim by interviewing the child, the parents, and other relevant parties. This may include home visits and assessments of the child’s living environment.
3. Temporary Custody: In some cases, CPS may temporarily remove the child from the home if they believe there is an immediate danger to the child’s safety.
4. Family Court Involvement: If CPS determines that the child is at risk, they may file a petition with the family court to obtain a legal order for protective custody or to make the child a ward of the state. In some cases, parents may be required to participate in services such as counseling, parenting classes, or substance abuse treatment.