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How to Successfully Work With Child Protective Services During an Investigation

How to Successfully Work With Child Protective Services During an Investigation

Facing a Child Protective Services (CPS) investigation can be a daunting and emotional experience for families. However, understanding the process and knowing how to work effectively with CPS can make a significant difference. In this concise guide, we’ll provide essential tips and strategies to help you navigate through a CPS investigation with confidence and clarity, ensuring the best possible outcome for your family.

CPS Investigation: An Overview

The tricky part of being involved in a Child Protective Services (CPS) investigation is that the same people who are investigating you for allegedly abusing or neglecting your child are the same people who can permanently clear your name and help your life return to normal.

The same person who comes into your home pokes around your bedroom, and talks to your child about sensitive issues is the same person who can help you find services and programs that can improve your health and your family life. Life with CPS does entail the handling of a double-edged sword.

CPS will cause you to contact some different people during your investigation. For one thing, CPS has highly high turnover among its employees, and as a result, your caseworker and investigator may not be employed with CPS for more than a few months. At which point, new contact people will be provided to you, and the cycle begins anew. It is hard to develop a sense of cohesiveness or trust when new people are continually moving in and out of your and your child’s lives.

Outside of just the employees who work for CPS, you will most likely contact counselors, therapists, guardians ad litem, and courtroom personnel. If you are not a people person and feel uncomfortable speaking to and interacting with a lot of people, today’s blog will likely be of great help to you.

Assisting Others So That They Can Assist You

How to Successfully Work With Child Protective Services During an Investigation

I would approach every interaction you have with people in your CPS investigation as a means to an end.
If your child has been removed from your care, your top priority should be to secure their quick return home. Each person involved in your case plays a specific role, and your reaction to these roles matters greatly. Disrespectful and belligerent behavior towards these individuals can significantly reduce your chances of bringing your child back home.

Conversely, by proactively considering your goals in the CPS case, you can assist these individuals in their roles, thereby increasing your chances of an earlier reunion with your child. Remember, roles like guardian ad litem, counselor, or CPS interviewer might seem unclear initially, but they are crucial. Your attorney will clarify their importance, as they hold the potential to influence the judge’s decision significantly in your case.

Consider what impression you will give to each of these people by the way you act and speak to them. The bottom line is that each of these people wants to help keep your child safe and does not have anything against you personally. Treating these folks with patience, answering questions, and cooperating in the services each provides can help you out immensely. You may have to swallow your pride in doing so, but you will quickly forget about that once your child is back home with you, safe and sound.

Your Relationship With Your CPS Caseworker

In a CPS case, your caseworker is crucial. They’re your main contact for services to ensure your child’s safety, including job assistance or support in staying sober. They play a key role in court, presenting your compliance with parenting and service plans to the judge. Your progress, as reported by them, influences your case outcome and your child’s return.

Your caseworker isn’t your adversary, despite their involvement in allegations against you. They understand your defensive stance; criticism, especially in parenting, is hard to take. Remember, these caseworkers are often stretched thin, handling multiple cases. They might not meet all your expectations for attention and time.

Patience is essential. If you have urgent updates or requests, leave a voicemail and persistently follow up. Building a trusting relationship with your caseworker is vital for a successful outcome.

Building a Relationship With Non-CPS Employees

How to Successfully Work With Child Protective Services During an Investigation

In a CPS case, apart from your main caseworker, service providers play a significant role. These include physicians, therapists, and mental health professionals. They might testify in court about your progress with your service plan, influencing the judge’s decisions.

Like in any social setting, you’ll resonate with some service providers more than others. Remember, cooperation and engagement with their services can expedite your case and improve outcomes. If you encounter issues with a service provider, like disrespect or lack of attention, report it to your caseworker. While changing providers isn’t common, it’s possible if necessary for your case. Your approach to these relationships can profoundly impact your CPS journey.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What degree do you need to be a CPS worker in Texas?

To become a CPS worker in Texas, you typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related field. Some positions may require a master’s degree for more advanced roles.

How much does a CPS worker make in Texas?

The salary of a CPS worker in Texas can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and location. On average, CPS workers in Texas earn around $45,000 to $55,000 per year.

How do I become a social worker for CPS in Texas?

To become a social worker for CPS in Texas, you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work or a related field. After graduation, you can apply for entry-level positions with CPS and gain relevant experience in the field.

Where do CPS workers make the most money?

CPS workers often earn higher salaries in metropolitan areas with a higher cost of living. Cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin in Texas tend to offer higher wages for CPS workers compared to rural areas.

Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC | Houston, Texas CPS Defense Lawyers

The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, routinely handles matters that affect children and families. If you have questions regarding CPS, it’s essential to speak with one of our Houston, TX CPS defense Lawyers right away to protect your rights.

Our CPS defense lawyers in Houston, TX, are skilled at listening to your goals during this trying process and developing a strategy to meet those goals. Contact the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC by calling (281) 810-9760 or submit your contact information in our online form. The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC handles CPS defense cases in Houston, Texas, Cypress, Klein, Humble, Kingwood, Tomball, The Woodlands, the FM 1960 area, or surrounding areas, including Harris County, Montgomery County, Liberty County, Chambers County, Galveston County, Brazoria County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

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