Anne Arundel Child in Need of Assistance Attorney

Anne Arundel Child in Need of Assistance Lawyer

Parents of children at Folger Mckinsey Elementary and other local schools can be charged with neglecting or abusing their children. Although these allegations can be deeply upsetting, it is crucial to take them seriously. If the Department of Social Services (DSS) becomes involved, you could lose access to your child or children. An Anne Arundel child in need of assistance attorney (CINA lawyer) can protect your rights and fight the accusations. A skilled family law attorney can also help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process to secure the best outcome for your family.

A Trusted Family Law Firm Serving Anne Arundel

When a state agency says you are unfit to be a parent, that can be deeply upsetting and emotionally overwhelming. Allegations of child abuse or neglect in Anne Arundel County can lead to court intervention, making it essential to have strong legal representation to protect your rights. At the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA, we ensure our clients understand their legal options and what to expect throughout the process.

Our firm provides strategic advocacy for parents facing child in need of assistance (CINA) cases and other serious family law matters. If the state is attempting to remove your child from your care, you need a dedicated legal team ready to fight for you. With our guidance, you can challenge the allegations, present a strong defense, and work toward reunification with your children.

How CINA Cases Are Handled in Anne Arundel County

A child in need of assistance case in Anne Arundel County starts when the Department of Social Services believes a child is at risk due to abuse or an unsafe home environment. If DSS believes intervention is needed for the safety of the child, they can file a petition with the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court.

As the case moves forward, the court reviews DSS reports and other forms of evidence, such as medical records and witness testimony. Medical evidence can come from any healthcare institution, such as Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center.

A judge then reviews the evidence and considers the arguments before deciding whether the child can remain at home or should be placed in foster care. In some cases, the child may be placed with a relative. A CINA case can be the first step before further action is taken to terminate the parental rights of the biological parent or parents.

Challenging Allegations of Child Neglect or Abuse in Anne Arundel

If you are facing allegations of child abuse, you have the right to fight back. Understanding the exact accusations you are facing is an important first step. Once you know what you are being accused of, you can begin collecting evidence to refute those allegations.

Evidence to support your case could include medical records, testimony from family members, and financial statements that show you have the means to care for your child and provide material support. Understanding how to properly respond to a CPS complaint is critical, as missteps can impact the outcome of your case.

These cases are often handled at Anne Arundel County Circuit Court, where DSS presents evidence to justify their case. Parents can improve their chances for a favorable outcome by remaining cooperative with DSS and complying with court orders. Having strong legal counsel can also help you protect your parental rights in court.

The Role of Legal Representation in Anne Arundel CINA Cases

An attorney can be an invaluable resource when protecting your rights in court. The burden is on DSS to prove that intervention is necessary. Your attorney can show that you are a loving and caring parent who deserves to retain custodial and legal rights over your child.

At Anne Arundel County Circuit Court, which is near the Maryland State Government General Assembly, your lawyer can cross-examine witnesses, enter new evidence, and make legal arguments to protect your parental rights. Navigating a CPS case can be overwhelming, but knowing your rights and the steps involved can make the process less daunting

FAQs About Anne Arundel,MD Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) Law

What Is a Motion to Reconsider in a CINA Case in Maryland?

A motion to reconsider is a formal request asking the court to review and potentially change a prior ruling. In Maryland, a party must file this motion within 30 days of the judgment. It is often used when new evidence emerges or if there is a legal error that may have affected the outcome of the case. Judges have the discretion to grant or deny the request based on the circumstances.

Does a CINA Case Go on Your Record in Maryland?

Yes, a CINA case goes on your record in Maryland; however, it can potentially be expunged depending on the outcome. If the investigation resulted in an unsubstantiated finding, the record may be expunged within five years of the report. If there were substantiated findings as a result of an investigation, the record may not be expunged. There are other cases where a record may be expunged after two years, and cases where there may be exceptions to expungement dates.

What Is the Burden of Proof in a CINA Case in Maryland?

The burden of proof in a CINA case is a “preponderance of the evidence.” This means it must be shown that it is more likely than not that a parent abused or neglected their child in some way. This standard is lower than “beyond a reasonable doubt” used in criminal cases, but the judge still requires credible evidence before issuing an order. In Maryland, child abuse allegations require a careful examination of evidence, and understanding the legal standards can help you prepare your defense.

How Can a CINA Case Be Dismissed in Maryland?

A CINA case in Maryland can be dismissed if the issues that led to the case are resolved or the court determines the child does not meet the legal definition of a CINA. The case may also be dismissed if DSS voluntarily dismisses the petition, a parent or lawyer files a motion to dismiss and is approved by a judge, an alternative guardian steps in, such as a relative, or there is insufficient evidence of harm.

Schedule Your CINA Consultation Today

Being accused of being an unfit parent can be an upsetting and incredibly stressful experience. At the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA, we are dedicated to defending parents in Anne Arundel County against CINA allegations by building a strong case with evidence and witness testimony. These cases can have serious, long-term consequences, which makes having skilled legal representation all the more crucial.

We know how vital it is for parents to maintain custody of their children, and we can fight aggressively to protect your parental rights. With our firm by your side, you will have a trusted advocate who understands the legal process and is prepared to challenge any unfounded claims. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and start building your defense.