One of the scariest moments in a parent's life is getting a call from DCFS stating that you are being investigated for abuse and neglect. First, you're not alone and there are ways out of this mess. Working with DCFS can be extremely stressful and difficult. Many parents feel like they are scared to make any moves because no matter what they feel like they might do something wrong. However, there are many steps you can take right away to ensure that you are doing all that you can to protect yourself and your child(ren).
1. Do not avoid contact with DCFS: Many people think that by just avoiding the investigator, they can avoid getting indicated. This is not how it works. In MOST instances you should contact the DCFS investigator and set up an interview with him or her. I highly suggest contacting Melissa Kuffel, with Kuffel Law, LLC in order to determine if you should speak with the investigator, and if so, what you should and shouldn't say during your interview.
2. If you have been contacted by a Detective from the police department: In this case, contact a criminal attorney immediately. I work closely with several criminal attorneys that can advise you on how to approach the criminal aspect of your case. If there is any possibility of a criminal charge against you, contact a criminal attorney and do NOT speak with anyone about your case until you do so. Follow the criminal attorney's advice to the letter. The criminal implications are often much worse than the DCFS implications. Take this very seriously.
3. Interview with the DCFS Investigator: Hire Kuffel Law, LLC to be with you during your interview with the DCFS investigator: Depending on the allegations, it may be quite helpful to have an attorney present during your interview with DCFS. Depending on your case, Kuffel Law, LLC can give you advice on information that could help you during your interview including documents, medical reports, text messages, emails, and collateral contacts.
4. The DCFS investigator notifies you that you have in fact been "indicated" (they found credible evidence to support a finding of abuse/neglect): You should contact Kuffel Law, LLC immediately to request an appeal on your behalf. We will then receive the investigation packet from DCFS and start building a trial strategy to get your case overturned on appeal.
Melissa Kuffel has 14 years of experience working with DCFS. She finds this work rewarding, as she gets to help parents in one of the worst moments in their lives. She prides herself on helping parents not only get through the DCFS process, but to move on once the ordeal has been taken care of without any future concerns of DCFS reports. Let Melissa Kuffel with Kuffel Law, LLC use her knowledge, experience and drive to help parents assist you during this difficult time.