WHERE DOES DCFS TAKE A CHILD?

DCFS (Department of Children and Family Services) is a state agency responsible for protecting the safety and well-being of children. When a child is suspected of being abused or neglected, DCFS may take the child into protective custody. This means that the child is removed from their home and placed in a safe environment while the allegations are investigated.

Reasons DCFS May Take a Child

• Abuse and Neglect: DCFS has the authority to remove a child from their home if there is evidence of abuse or neglect. Abuse includes physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as neglect. Neglect is the failure to provide a child with adequate food, clothing, shelter, or medical care.
• Parental Incapacity: DCFS may also take a child into protective custody if the parents are unable to care for the child due to incapacity. This could be due to mental illness, substance abuse, or incarceration.
• Abandonment: If a child is abandoned by their parents, DCFS will take the child into protective custody. Abandonment is the voluntary surrender of a child to another person or agency without the intent to return.

Where DCFS Takes a Child

When DCFS takes a child into protective custody, they will place the child in a safe environment. This could be a foster home, a group home, or a residential treatment center. The child's placement will depend on their individual needs and circumstances.

How Long a Child Stays in DCFS Custody

The length of time a child stays in DCFS custody will vary depending on the circumstances of the case. If the allegations of abuse or neglect are unfounded, the child may be returned home after a short period of time. If the allegations are substantiated, the child may remain in DCFS custody until a permanent placement can be found.

What Happens After a Child is Taken by DCFS

Once a child is taken into protective custody by DCFS, the agency will begin an investigation into the allegations of abuse or neglect. The investigation will include interviews with the child, the parents, and other witnesses. DCFS will also gather evidence, such as medical records and photographs.

If the investigation finds that the allegations are substantiated, DCFS will file a petition with the court to have the child adjudicated as a dependent of the state. This means that the court will take over the responsibility for the child's care and placement.

The court will hold a hearing to determine if the child should be adjudicated as a dependent of the state. At the hearing, the parents will have the opportunity to present evidence and arguments on their behalf. The court will also hear from DCFS and any other parties involved in the case.

If the court finds that the child should be adjudicated as a dependent of the state, the court will enter an order placing the child in the custody of DCFS. The order will also specify the conditions of the child's placement, such as where the child will live and what services the child will receive.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I do if I suspect a child is being abused or neglected?

Answer: If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you should report it to DCFS. You can make a report online or by calling the DCFS hotline.

• What happens if the allegations of abuse or neglect are unfounded?

Answer: If the allegations of abuse or neglect are unfounded, the child will be returned home. DCFS will provide the family with services to help them address the issues that led to the investigation.

• How long does a child stay in DCFS custody?

Answer: The length of time a child stays in DCFS custody will vary depending on the circumstances of the case. If the allegations of abuse or neglect are substantiated, the child may remain in DCFS custody until a permanent placement can be found.

• What happens after a child is adjudicated as a dependent of the state?

Answer: After a child is adjudicated as a dependent of the state, the court will enter an order placing the child in the custody of DCFS. The order will also specify the conditions of the child's placement, such as where the child will live and what services the child will receive.

• What can I do to help a child in DCFS custody?

Answer: There are many ways you can help a child in DCFS custody. You can become a foster parent, donate to a child welfare organization, or volunteer your time at a child welfare agency.