In Illinois, the Department of Children and Family Services serves the most vulnerable families and children. Illinois was one of the first states to pass laws protecting children, designate mandated reporters and establish child abuse hotlines. While DCFS is here to help families, getting caught up in the system can be one of the scariest situations any parent or caregiver can face. If you are dealing with an investigation or have reason to believe that you will be soon, you need the help of an experienced DCFS attorney. Child neglect and abuse allegations can have serious and even lifelong repercussions on you both personally and professionally.

DCFS Reports, Mandated Reporters and Abuse Allegations

At Kostopoulos Law Group, our attorneys are committed to helping you throughout the DCFS investigations process. A neglect or abuse case can begin with a report by a concerned neighbor, family member, friend or mandatory reporter. Mandatory reporters can include:

• Teachers and other school employees
• Doctors and nurses
• Childcare professionals
• Law enforcement officers
• Others who hold positions of trust with children

Reports can also be made anonymously with the identity of the caller kept confidential. In many circumstances, the affected family will not be given any information about the reporter’s identity. Allegations of abuse and reports are most commonly made against parents or caregivers but can also be made against romantic partners and others connected with the child. These reports can stem from legitimate concerns or even misunderstandings, including:

• Misunderstandings at the doctor’s office or emergency room
• Allegations of parental alcohol or drug abuse
• Allegations of domestic violence
• Allegations of sexual misconduct
• Juvenile delinquency
• Failed adoption

The investigation will begin as soon as the report is made. Your interests and rights will be best protected when a skilled DCFS attorney is by your side. We understand the intricacies of the system and can help you navigate it to you and your family’s best advantage.

Fighting DCFS in Chicago

The long-term consequences of a credible finding of abuse or neglect can be severe. Your name can remain on the State Central Register for up to 50 years, depending on the type and extent of the allegations against you. While this register is not open to the public, it is accessible to certain employers, such as some schools, daycare centers and other facilities that involve work with children.

The primary goal of DCFS is to protect the child or children involved. Unfortunately, simple, straightforward cases and inquiries can sometimes turn into multiple year-long ordeals and family trauma when mishandled. As your DCFS attorney, we’ll fight to make sure that your rights are protected and advocate tirelessly to preserve your family. If you are a professional caretaker, we’ll fight for your professional reputation and licensing. Call our Chicago DCFS legal team today to learn more or to schedule your free case evaluation.