Guidance And Protection For Child In Need Of Care Cases
If the Department for Children and Families (DCF) finds evidence of abuse, neglect or truancy from school, it can remove your children from your home – sometimes permanently. These instances are called Child in Need of Care (CINC) cases, and they require the assistance of a lawyer to uphold the rights of everyone involved.
Based in Lenexa, The Kelly Law Firm, L.L.C., helps parents, grandparents, stepparents and other guardians who have encountered this painful issue. Our attorney, Melissa Kelly Schroeder, has handled these cases from both sides, often representing mothers and fathers who wish to retain custody of their children. In every CINC matter she handles, her priority is to do what is best for the child.
What Happens In A CINC Case?
All CINC cases are unique. The state adheres to the same general procedure, though certain steps vary according to the circumstances. Typically:
- When DCF has the court’s permission, they may remove a child from the home temporarily.
- The court schedules a hearing to implement a safety plan for the child or to determine that the child should remain out of the home.
- If the judge rules that the child should not return home, the district attorney’s office files a petition to declare the child a Child in Need of Care.
- If the court upholds the CINC petition, it will decide long-term care options for the child such as foster care or staying with a relative.
- Then, the judge will impose certain measures that the family must follow to regain custody of the child. If the family meets these conditions to the court’s satisfaction, the county may return the child to the parents. If not, the court may terminate the parents’ rights completely.
Ms. Schroeder has handled many CINC cases, helping to reunify families or remove juveniles from dangerous living arrangements. She will keep you up to date with every development, small and large, so you know what is going on and can make informed decisions.
Discuss Your Situation With A Lawyer
Time is critical in Child in Need of Care cases. The county or the district attorney’s office is gathering evidence every day. The sooner you act, the better chance you have of securing the outcome you want. Reach out to The Kelly Law Firm, L.L.C., to schedule your initial consultation with a lawyer. To contact us, call 913-451-1119 or send us an email.