If DCS arrives at your home, it can be a frightening moment in your life. Especially if it’s an unexpected visit or if you’re unsure of why they’re even at your residence in the first place.
The following information has been pulled from the Arizona Department of Child Services’ website. It has been summarized for your convenience.
Parents Rights
“We understand a visit from a DCS Specialist can be frightening, overwhelming, and confusing. But contrary to popular belief, DCS doesn’t exist solely to take away children from their parents. The department’s main priority is to work with families to ensure children are safe. One of the most important functions of DCS is to help families receive the services necessary for them to remain together whenever possible and to strengthen family relationships.
When DCS receives an allegation of child abuse or neglect, state law requires the department to conduct a thorough investigation. DCS needs your cooperation to assess your family’s needs and to provide services in the shortest possible time. If your child faces serious neglect or abuse, DCS is required to take action, which may include removing your child from your home. DCS attempts to balance the legal rights of parents and the needs and rights of children to live in a safe and healthy home.
Even if DCS investigates your family, it doesn’t mean your child is going to be removed. In fact, only 10 percent of DCS reports result in a child being removed. In the vast majority of our contacts with families, DCS and families work together to resolve safety concerns and without any children being removed from the home.”
YOUR RIGHTS
In a DCS Investigation, Arizona law requires DCS to provide the parent, guardian, or custodian with written information outlining his/her rights. Upon initial contact, DCS must inform the parent, guardian, or custodian that:
- The person accused is under investigation by DCS and the specific complaint or allegation made against the person.
- DCS has no legal authority to compel the parent, guardian, or custodian to cooperate with the investigation. Additionally, they have no authority to compel you or your family to receive services.
- Whether or not you agree to cooperate with the investigation or participate in the services offered, DCS will proceed with their investigation.
- DCS may file a petition with the juvenile court indicating that the child is in need of protective services.
- Refusal to cooperate in the investigation or to participate in services offered does not constitute grounds for removing a child. However, temporary custody may be necessary to prevent the child from suffering abuse or neglect.
- The person’s refusal to cooperate with the investigation or participate in services offered does not in itself constitute grounds for temporary custody.
- The parent, guardian, or custodian has the right to file a complaint about how their case is being handled with the Ombudsman Citizens’ Aide and/or the Family Advocacy Office. Additionally, they may appeal DCS determinations. DCS must provide the person with the telephone number to the Ombudsman-Citizens’ Aide.
- Parents have the right to respond to the allegations verbally or in writing. This includes providing information and to have the information considered in determining whether the child needs protective services.
THINGS TO REMEMBER
- Anything the person says or writes can be used in a court proceeding.
- Any written response, including any documents, will be included in the case record.
- Any information provided in response to the allegations will be considered during the investigation.
- DCS will keep any response to the allegations. This includes any information provided in the case record. They will provide this information to the court before a hearing or trial relating to the dependency petition.
REMOVALS
“Few of the children who are reported to DCS are actually removed from their homes. However, sometimes children must be removed to keep them safe while their parents work to improve their situation. When DCS removes a child from their home or considers removing a child, DCS will hold a team decision-making meeting. This meeting brings together people who are involved with the child and the child’s family. DCS encourages the family to bring supportive persons such as relatives, friends, neighbors, or community persons to the meeting.
The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the child’s safety, where he or she will live, and to identify family resources that may help the family protect the child. DCS considers all viable options to protect the child from abuse or neglect prior to foster care placement.”
What You Can REALLY Expect When DCS Arrives
In reality, when DCS arrives or makes their way into your life through some other means, be prepared to experience true hell. DCS may lie to you and they may mistreat you and the ones you love. Furthermore, they may accuse you of horrible things. Finally, they may treat you like a criminal.
Additionally, be prepared to suffer abuse and injustice backed by the full power of the state of Arizona’s government. It’s a lot to handle and it’s no easy task to navigate.
Should DCS arrive at your home, our hearts go out to you. It may be one of the most disturbing moments you’ll ever experience in your life and could impact you till the day you die.
Help Us Fight the Good Fight
Costs to document this historical government tragedy have been excessive. However, they are far from over. Our personal expenses to fight the powers that continue to victimize our children and their families have exceeded over $1,000,000. They continue to grow by the day. In order to save face, the state of Arizona continues to blame the victims of corruption. They do so at great damage to their reputations and credibility.
Any contribution you can make to aid our cause is most appreciated. You can donate to Saving Grace Advocates using the link provided. Please help us fight Arizona CPS corruption and bring justice to the families and children who have suffered at their hands. Thank you for your continued support and contributions.
Sincerely,