IC 31-33-8-1 provides that a DCS assessment shall be initiated as follows: (1) when the report alleges neglect, the assessment shall be initiated within a reasonably prompt period, but not later than five days; (2) when the report alleges abuse, the assessment shall be initiated immediately, but not later than twenty- ...
How long does CPS have to investigate a case in Indiana?
How long does a CPS investigation last? In most instances, Child Protective Services has approximately 45 days to investigate reports of neglect, dependency and abuse. If the investigation takes longer than 45 days the agency must promptly notify the family about the extension.
How long does DCS have to respond?
Case response time is 24 to 72 hours , depending on the case. Some factors, such as screening and routing, can take slightly longer. In general though, a case will get a response within 72 hours.
How long does CPS workers have to complete an investigation?
CPS investigations typically last about 30 days . A home visit from Child Protective Services may range in length, depending on the case.
What are my rights with DCS Indiana?
The right to have a detention hearing held by a court within 48 hours after the child’s removal from the home and the right to request the return of the child at such hearing. ... The right to cross-examine witnesses at each court proceeding on the CHINS petition.
Can CPS spy on you?
Short answer: Yes .
What is considered unsafe living conditions for a child?
Being unwilling to meet your child’s basic needs for food, shelter, clean water, and a safe environment (examples of unsafe environments include: your child living in cars or on the street , or in homes where they are exposed to poisonous materials, convicted sex offenders, temperature extremes, or dangerous objects ...
How do you know if CPS is investigating you?
Another way you may find out you are being investigated by CPS is if CPS comes to your door, unannounced . If you are not home, they will leave a business card and they will ask you to please return their call. They won’t tell you why they want to talk to you.
What CPS can and Cannot do?
Although CPS can show up at a home at any point in time, they may not enter a home without the explicit permission of a parent or guardian. The only exception to this rule is if they have a court order or believe a child is in immediate danger.
What happens if you fail drug test for CPS?
A positive drug test result may result in the Court reducing the parent’s time with a child and could order that any time spent with the child is supervised. These orders may be made on an interim basis, to continue up until the final Hearing, or until the party has produced a negative sample.
Can DCS show up unannounced?
Many times CPS investigators show up unannounced. ... If the CPS worker does not have a warrant, they will likely leave and ask you and your attorney to schedule a time to be interviewed.
Can you find out who called CPS on you in Indiana?
CPS reports are confidential and there is no legal way to find out who made the complaint.
Do you have to let CPS in your house in Indiana?
You should never let a CPS worker into your home until you are positive they have a court order or warrant . Letting the official into your home waives the protections afforded to you by the Fourth Amendment.
Can CPS look at your Facebook?
You can expect that part of the investigation will involve looking at your social media accounts . With this in mind, you should not only avoid posting new information on social media, but you should also shut down your existing accounts, so they are no longer public.
They cannot take your children away without a court order except in exigent circumstances . Child Protective Services cannot simply take your children away from your home. Except in exigent circumstances, a court order is required before CPS can legally remove a child from your home without your consent.
What CPS looks for?
CPS will look for any hazards that could result in a child’s burn injuries , including electrical equipment, chemicals, and thermal contact. Fire hazards. Make sure that flammable items are far away from open flame in the house. A CPS investigator may also ask you if your house is equipped with smoke alarms.
