Ellicott City Child Protective Services (CPS) Lawyer

Ellicott City Child Protective Services (CPS) Attorney

Being notified that you are being investigated by Child Protective Services can be an upsetting and stressful time. The potential consequences of an investigation could lead to restricted parental rights. Law enforcement may even become involved. An Ellicott City Child Protective Services (CPS) lawyer can represent you and take steps to undo the damage done to your reputation.

With more than 25 years of experience, the legal team at the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA, understands how CPS works and how false accusations are used as leverage in family court. With legal representation, you can take an active role in rebutting what is being alleged against you.

Why Trust the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA?

Our firm has extensive experience representing clients in family court, giving us a deep understanding of the complexities involved in CPS cases. We recognize the nuances of legal separation, child custody disputes, and other family-related matters. This experience enables us to provide you with the essential guidance needed to navigate these challenges successfully.

We are dedicated to offering comprehensive services tailored to meet your specific needs. By focusing on achieving favorable possible outcomes for our clients, we work diligently to advocate for your rights throughout the entire process. Our commitment ensures that you receive personalized support and effective strategies tailored to your situation.

What Can Lead to a CPS Investigation?

CPS is primarily notified about potential acts of child abuse from two groups. Many professionals, like doctors and school teachers, are considered mandatory reporters. Due to their regular interactions with children, they are required to notify CPS when they see signs of potential child abuse.

CPS also takes calls from the general public. After the call is screened, the case is assigned to a CPS worker who contacts the child’s parents to better understand whether the allegations have merit. Anonymous calls are allowed, and CPS is required to look into any report that appears credible.

While many investigations can lead to important relief for children who are living in unsafe conditions, false CPS reports can also be used to attack the credibility of one parent, especially when there is an ongoing family court case.

Merely being investigated by a CPS worker can raise questions about one’s parental fitness, and there is always the possibility that law enforcement could become involved. Having an experienced CPS lawyer defending your reputation in Ellicott City and your rights is strongly recommended.

Why Legal Representation Is Crucial

If you are being investigated by CPS, having legal representation is crucial. CPS workers must work within the confines of the law and CPS guidelines. If they step out of line, an attorney can hold them accountable. While child safety is paramount, parenting is a fundamental right in the United States, and it has been upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court for over a hundred years.

You do not have to be relegated to the sidelines while CPS questions your ability to parent. Having legal representation can help ensure that your rights are protected during the investigation process. An attorney can advocate on your behalf, challenge any unfounded claims, and guide you through the complexities of the legal system.

If the other parent’s goal is to gain an advantage in court, your lawyer can take steps to make sure that does not happen. If needed, the matter can be brought before a judge. Through testimony and the submission of evidence, your lawyer can refute the accusations against you and clarify to the court that the CPS case is being used to influence the court system.

FAQs

Q: What Is Considered Child Endangerment in Maryland?

A: In Maryland, child endangerment involves placing a child in a dangerous situation that could harm their physical or emotional well-being. This includes neglect, exposure to illegal drugs, domestic violence, or failure to provide adequate supervision or basic needs. Such actions can lead to legal consequences, including intervention by Child Protective Services.

Q: Which Is the Most Common Form of Child Maltreatment by a Caregiver?

A: One of the most common forms of child maltreatment by a caregiver is neglect. Many people think of physical abuse when they hear about CPS allegations and restricting parental rights. While those acts occur, neglect of basic needs can also lead to abuse, whether through malnutrition, emotional harm, or poor hygiene. If a CPS worker sees that a child is not properly cleaned, dressed, and fed, that could be used as proof of neglect against the parent.

Q: Can Law Enforcement Become Involved in My Case?

A: Yes, law enforcement can become involved in your CPS case. CPS often works closely with law enforcement. During an investigation, a CPS worker may become aware of potential criminal activity. Physically abusing a child is a crime in Maryland. Law enforcement may even be notified when there is less-than-credible evidence that a crime was committed. Having legal representation can aid parents during a CPS investigation by reducing the chances that false allegations lead to serious consequences.

Q: Who Is a Mandatory Reporter in Maryland?

A: Mandatory reporters to CPS in Maryland include a wide range of professionals who are obligated to report signs of child abuse. These include school teachers, medical doctors, social workers, daycare staff, police officers, and mental health professionals. Any adult who suspects child abuse or neglect may report their concerns to the authorities.

Schedule Your Ellicott City Consultation Today

Don’t let an anonymous phone call lead to questions about your parental fitness. With legal representation, our attorneys can protect your rights and take steps to ensure CPS doesn’t overstep its bounds. If you are going through a family court case, our law firm can take steps to see that your parental rights are not restricted.

For more than 25 years, the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA, has helped parents protect their access to their children. We can represent you during your CPS investigation and everything we speak about in a consultation will be confidential. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.