Child Protective Services (CPS) Cases

Experienced Representation in Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) Cases

An encounter with Child Protective Services (CPS) can cause considerable anxiety for parents, particularly if there are questions regarding alleged child abuse or child sexual abuse. Falsely accused parents may be especially apprehensive about the vulnerability of their parental rights in light of a divorce or child custody dispute, where false allegations may have been made by the other parent to gain leverage in the case.

CPS cases are serious and can have a significant impact on your future and the future of your children. If CPS has contacted you, you should consult an experienced family law attorney immediately to ensure that your rights are protected and that you are prepared for the critical CPS procedures ahead.

Houston attorney Terry L. Hart has served the needs of families in complex, highly controversial and emotionally charged family law issues for over 25 years. He understands the grave nature of CPS cases and actively prepares parents for CPS investigation procedures.

CPS Investigations of Abuse or Neglect

The law requires Child Protective Services (CPS) to thoroughly investigate any reports or allegations of child neglect or child abuse, including emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse or other child abuse. At the conclusion of a CPS investigation, the CPS caseworker will assess whether the child is in immediate danger of abuse or neglect OR if there is a reasonable likelihood that the child will be subjected to abuse or neglect in the foreseeable future. If the caseworker believes the child is in immediate danger or is at risk of abuse or neglect, a decision will be made regarding potential out-of-home foster care, counseling or treatment options.

Texas Child Protective Services may remove your child from your home due to:

• Suspected drug or alcohol abuse
• Lack of supervision (neglect)
• Suspected danger to the health and safety of the child
• Child abuse or child sexual abuse

Clear understanding of the process and preparation for interviews by the CPS caseworker can dramatically alleviate your apprehension about talking with the caseworker. This allows the caseworker to see your true interests and gives you the ability to explain the alleged incident from your perspective.

Challenging the outcome of a CPS investigation can be difficult. Attorney Hart ensures you understand, and are capable of complying with, conditions placed on you by CPS to keep your child in your home or enable your child to return to your home after being removed. His attentive personal service and professionalism aid you throughout the process of a CPS case.

For a free consultation with a Houston Spanish-speaking family law attorney: Contact Terry Hart to discuss your legal questions. Se habla español.