Parenting is hard work, even under the best of circumstances. It becomes much harder when someone has contacted Child Protection Services (CPS) regarding your family and you are suddenly under investigation. It may feel like your every action and decision is under a microscope, and as if your family’s future is being threatened.

Child Protection Services has an important function in keeping children safe. That said, many families who are investigated by CPS are not a danger to their children. They may have been reported due to inaccurate or incomplete information. But because CPS is required to follow up on all reports, many families find themselves going through the stressful process of investigation and having to prove that their children are safe with them.

The truth is that any parent or guardian may find themselves under investigation by CPS. When that happens, you don’t have to navigate investigation or court hearings alone. CPS has the resources of an entire system behind it. You need to have an experienced Texas CPS attorney behind you.

Understanding Texas CPS Investigations and Court Actions

Child Protection Services begins an investigation when a report is made to its statewide intake services by someone who suspects abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a child. If the allegation meets the legal definition of abuse or neglect, a case will be opened and assigned a priority for investigation. A caseworker will be assigned to investigate, which will include interviewing you, your child, and others who might have information about the situation.

The caseworker will make a safety assessment to determine if your child is safe in your household. They might decide that your child is safe if you receive some supportive services. If they believe your child is not safe, CPS will begin a removal process. That could involve your child going to stay with a relative, in a foster home, or in some other placement until it is safe for them to return home.

This whole process can be unfamiliar, intrusive, and overwhelming, and you may feel extremely defensive. While it is understandable that you would feel angry about the process, expressing that anger to the CPS caseworker could make it appear that you are uncooperative or even that you pose a risk to your child. An experienced family law attorney can help you understand what to expect and protect your rights during CPS investigations and hearings.

How We Help Families in Texas CPS Matters

Attorney James P. Sadler devotes his entire practice to Texas family law, including CPS representation. He also has decades of litigation experience, which many family law attorneys lack. His unique skill set means that he can help explain the CPS process, reducing your stress level, and fight for your family at every step of the process, increasing the likelihood of a swift and favorable resolution. Sadler Family Law represents clients in CPS investigations, court cases, and appeals, as well as intervention into CPS matters involving loved ones.

At Sadler Family Law, we understand that you just want to care for and raise your children without the disruption a CPS investigation or court case can cause. We make it a priority to answer your questions, give you the support and advice you need, and advocate for your family’s best interests.

Family law attorney James P. Sadler represents people involved in divorces, child custody disputes, and other family law matters in San Angelo and throughout West Texas. He advocates for his clients’ rights and interests both in the courtroom and at the negotiating table. We invite you to contact Sadler Family Law online or at (325) 227-6738 to schedule a confidential office consultation.