Howard County Child Protective Services (CPS) Lawyer

Howard County Child Protective Services (CPS) Attorney

If you live in Howard County and were notified that you are under investigation by Child Protective Services (CPS), your parental rights could be in jeopardy. A CPS investigation could have implications for your family court case. One way you can work to refute the allegations against you is by hiring a Howard County Child Protective Services (CPS) lawyer.

The Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA, can represent you throughout the investigation. Having legal representation can greatly improve the chances that your side of the story is heard. False accusations in family court are an unfortunate reality, and sometimes outside groups like CPS are used by one party to gain the upper hand in court.

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

With over 25 years of experience and thousands of satisfied clients, the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA, is a trusted name when it comes to CPS cases in Howard County. Our attorneys are experienced trial attorneys who go to great lengths to serve the interests of their clients.

We understand that CPS cases can be particularly burdensome and stressful for clients. Once we notify CPS that you have legal representation, we can work in your interest to protect your rights. As we gather evidence that supports your case, we can begin taking steps to undo the damage to your reputation.

What Does CPS Do?

CPS is a social service that investigates allegations of child abuse and neglect. The agency employs investigators who may come to the residence of a child to verify if the living conditions are safe. CPS caseworkers may contact law enforcement if they believe a crime has been committed. The investigation could also have implications for an ongoing family law case because CPS caseworkers and investigators may be called to testify in court about one or both parents.

The agency acts on tips that can be given anonymously. While CPS plays an important role in protecting children in Maryland, their services can be misused by a spouse or former spouse who wishes to malign the reputation of the other parent. This can be especially true during a divorce or child custody case. Having an experienced Howard County Child Protective Services (CPS) lawyer on your side can be beneficial.

How Could a CPS Investigation Affect My Parental Rights?

An active CPS investigation could have significant implications for your ability to have access to your children. CPS may work with law enforcement or the court system when recommending that children be removed from a home. Once a child is removed from their home, it can be very difficult to convince CPS to return the child or children.

If you are in the middle of a divorce or child custody case, a CPS investigation could also have implications for that process. The mere accusation of child abuse could lead to questions of parental fitness when establishing temporary or permanent court orders.

Why Legal Representation Is Crucial During a CPS Case

If you are going through a divorce or another family court matter, a CPS investigation could have direct implications for your legal case. Without experienced legal counsel representing you, the family courts may side with the CPS case worker.

Our lawyers can question the evidence being used against you and how it was collected. We can be your advocate in negotiations with other parties and speak on your behalf in court. If your soon-to-be ex is using false CPS reports to malign your credibility as a fit parent, our lawyers can help to hold your spouse legally accountable.

FAQs

Q: What Are Examples of Civil Rights Violations by CPS?

A: Examples of civil rights violations by Child Protective Services (CPS) include unlawful removal of children from their homes without proper evidence, failure to provide due process during investigations, racial discrimination, denying parents visitation rights, and coercing families into signing agreements without legal counsel. These actions can infringe on parental and family rights protected by law. Parenting is a fundamental right in this country.

Q: How Long Does a CPS Case Stay on Your Record in Maryland?

A: Under current CPS policy, any investigation that does not result in a finding of child abuse is expunged after two years. However, if abuse or neglect is substantiated, the case may remain on record for much longer.

The duration depends on the nature of the case and state regulations. Legal representation can improve the chance that your rights are protected during the investigation and your parental rights are protected in family court.

Q: How Long After CPS Is Called Do They Show Up?

A: CPS makes no specific time commitment about when they show up after they are notified of child abuse. If an active crime appears to be taking place, CPS may call law enforcement to the scene. After a call is screened, the case is assigned to a CPS worker who may contact the child’s parent or parents to assess the situation. CPS workers can make unannounced visits to a family’s home.

Q: What Does CPS Look for in a Home Visit in Maryland?

A: During a home visit in Maryland, CPS looks for signs that a child’s well-being may be in jeopardy. Not every parent can provide extensive material resources to their children, but parents are expected to provide reasonable sleeping accommodations, adequate food, and other basics. Any signs of drug use by a parent could be taken as a sign that the children may not be safe in that home.

Schedule Your Howard County CPS Lawyer Consultation Today

If you were notified that you are being investigated by CPS, your first recourse should be to hire legal representation. Without an attorney, your parental rights could be in serious jeopardy. CPS investigations could even lead to criminal charges if CPS alerts law enforcement to your case and there are accusations that you have committed a crime.

The Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA, are here to help. We can take steps to undo the damage done to your reputation. CPS is bound to act within the law, and any violations of your rights can and should be taken seriously. To schedule your CPS lawyer consultation, contact our office today.