Child Protective Services (CPS) & Adult Protection Services (APS) Investigations
Child Protective Services (CPS) Investigations
Nothing could be scarier than being to told that CPS is taking your children. But this is often what happens when there is just an allegation of physical abuse, sexual abuse, or simple neglect.
Children can unfortunately be put in an even worse situation, when they are sent to live in a group home with juvenile delinquents, drug addicts, and children that have been sexually abused and are more likely to abuse themselves. CPS has been the subject of countless successful lawsuits for allowing children in their care to be abused, and turning a blind eye to the abuse.
You need to work quickly to get your children back, and our attorneys are used to navigating the bureaucracy of CPS, and are willing and able to file court actions to contest incorrect findings by this agency. CPS will often take allegations of abuse or neglect at face value, without determining the credibility or bias of the source. They will make an administrative finding of abuse or neglect, assuming that parents will not have the resources or knowledge to appeal their agency decision. We handle these appeals, and even if your children are not taken, it is important to clear your record. These administrative findings are reported to state agencies, and may affect your ability to volunteer at a school, assist children by becoming involved in coaching sports, and may affect your ability to gain professional accreditation. Many people have even become unemployable in their field of expertise after an adverse CPS finding.
There are huge financial, personal, and family consequences when a CPS investigation is started against you. You need to begin working immediately, in order to give yourself the best possible chance of a good outcome. Before making any statements to investigators, you should consult with an attorney, as CPS works very closely with law enforcement and you may face not only the loss of your children, but criminal prosecution for child abuse or neglect.
Adult Protection Services (APS) Investigations
Adult Protective Services (APS) has a similar mission to CPS, but they are charged with protecting the elderly and vulnerable in Washington State. They are often called by family members, medical professional, ambulance workers, and others that work with the elderly and infirm. Even an allegation of abuse or neglect can result in a protracted investigation, and your reputation and profession may be at risk if there is a finding of abuse or neglect. This agency, like CPS, is a sub-agency of Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS).
As soon as you believe that there may be an investigation, you should contact an attorney that regularly handles these matters. Experience counts when dealing with this agency, and this is not a matter to be taken lightly.
Our experience is your advantage
When you are facing an investigation by CPS or APS, we can help. Call us at (253) 867-2675 to schedule a free initial consultation. Our attorneys are standing by.