What Do Police Report to CPS? California Law & Investigation Process (2026)

Can CPS Call the Police?

Yes, CPS can and does refer cases to law enforcement in California. Under Welfare & Institutions Code Section 300, allegations of child abuse and neglect can result in both a juvenile dependency case and a separate criminal investigation running simultaneously.

CPS social workers are mandated reporters who are legally required to notify law enforcement when they have reasonable suspicion of criminal child abuse.

This means a single CPS investigation can trigger criminal charges through the district attorney’s office, two entirely separate legal proceedings that each require their own legal strategy.

In this blog post, we will discuss what constitutes child abuse and neglect under WIC 300 and how it can lead to juvenile dependency cases.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Arslan Khan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Great cps lawyer. Did everything he said he would do.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Cynthia Hopkins 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I personally was contacted by Mo in regards to my case and he was very knowledgeable about dependency cases and my specific situation.  It was explained to me where I stood and how to move forward.  I was given clarity on where I am and what to do next.  I truly appreciate Mo being willing to talk to me and to put me at rest giving me peace on my specific case as well as letting me know that I didn’t need representation and that if I did, he would let me know.  He gave me the facts and was completely honest with me that he wouldn’t require someone to pay or take his services on if they didn’t truly need representation and was on the right track with what they were doing with CPS.  I cannot say thank you enough Mo for instilling peace of mind and leadership towards the best way to move forward.  I am forever grateful!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Kal Majali 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Mr Abuershaid is by far one of the most honest and good attorney. I had 3 criminal charges filed against me back in may and in less than 3 months he was able to get all cases dismissed and not even filed. I highly recommend contacting him. He’s well-connected and knows everyone in courts
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Michael Mizner 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We came in contact with Mo when we realized we needed help and representation with a case involving CPS. Mo quickly put us at ease with his responsiveness and knowledge of the system. He was able to provide a calming presence in an otherwise hectic situation. Through his expertise, we successfully navigated the situation and are able to put this event behind us. Our family cannot recommend Mo and his team highly enough. We are very thankful that he was on side.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Aruna Rajan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Mo and his team were exceptionally prompt and provided timely support during our time of turmoil. Mo offered assurance, guidance, and a clear understanding of the law and likely proceedings. He follows up immediately, regardless of the hour, and is meticulous in his work. Mo was our rock, without whom we would have been lost. I highly recommend Mo and his team to help you navigate life's challenges.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Kristin Haynes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Mo did the improbable and was consistent, professional, kind, and focused in the entirety. I dare anyone to do that and be all Of those things in one day. You won’t regret hiring him. See Yelp for full accolades, I have a lot of good things to say about Mo and his team. You’re in good hands.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 M A 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I had the privilege of being represented by Mo in a dependency case. Unlike other attorneys I contacted, Mo was quick to assess the situation and immediately stepped into action. He consistently demonstrated his extensive knowledge and expertise, and I could always depend on him to be prepared with a solid plan.  Mo is responsive, available and his interpersonal skills are an 11/10. He was kind, patient, respectful and transparent, especially when answering my family’s many questions. I reached out to him on several occasions completely distraught. He handled these heavy situations with such care and provided much needed assurance and solace. I ended each call feeling safe and cared for.  Besides all the aforementioned qualities that make Mo an exceptional attorney, what really stood out was his passion and dedication. I feel he genuinely cares about the well-being of his clients. He kept my family’s best interest at the forefront of his process, which made me feel confident in trusting him and his judgement. Through his actions, he not only garnered respect form from my family and me, but also received accolades in the court room from County council.  Mo went above and beyond to help my family and me and I am eternally grateful. He was truly a light in a dark moment and I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone in need of an attorney.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Tannaz Amirian 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Highly recommended Mo! I’m so happy working with amazing gentleman Mo! He was so helpful on my personal case! He made it through without any problem! Thank you Mo!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Brent Solis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Mo is an amazing attorney and did an excellent job with walking me through my case step my step. He is highly recommended and calls you back in a timely manner with any of your questions or concerns. I'm truly so grateful to have had his assistance during such a difficult time.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
    
 
 

What Exactly is Child Abuse or Child Neglect?

Child abuse and neglect are defined under WIC 300 as any of the following:

• Physical abuse, meaning physical injury inflicted on a child by another person with the intent to cause harm
• Sexual abuse, meaning sexual assault or sexual exploitation of a child
• Emotional abuse, meaning intentional mental or emotional cruelty inflicted on a child
• Neglect, meaning the failure to provide basic necessities like food, clothing, or shelter

What Does CPS Do?

If CPS (Child Protective Services) receives a report of child abuse or neglect, they will investigate the claim. If they find that there is enough evidence to substantiate the claim, they may file a juvenile dependency case with the court. 

A detention hearing is the first appearance in dependency court after being taken into custody by Child Protective Services (CPS).

Detention hearings are held within three days of a child being removed from the home, excluding weekends and holidays. At the detention hearing, the judge will decide whether or not to return the child to their parents or place the child in foster care.

If the judge decides to return the child to their parents, CPS will still be involved and will provide services to the family. If the judge decides to place the child in foster care, they will be placed with a relative or in foster care.

Unfortunately, this means that the child will be placed in foster care, and the parents will have to go through a lengthy court process in order to get their child back.

In some instances, CPS may also refer the case to law enforcement. This can lead to criminal charges being filed against the parent or guardian.

When Does CPS Call the Police?

There is no easy answer to this question. CPS may call the police if they believe a child is in immediate danger or the abuse is particularly severe. If CPS is investigating you, you must speak to an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the CPS investigation and ensure that your rights are protected.

When Does a CPS Case Become a Criminal Case?

A CPS case can become a criminal case if the abuse or neglect is severe enough to warrant criminal charges. In some cases, CPS may refer the case to law enforcement, and the district attorney may decide to file charges.

Several types of criminal charges can stem from a CPS investigation, including:

• Child abuse: Penal Code 273(d)
• Child endangerment: Penal Code 273(a)
• Failing to provide for a child: Penal Code 270
• Corporal injury on a child: Penal Code 273.5
• Child pornography: Penal Code 311
• Bigamy, Incest, and the Crime Against Nature: Penal Code 288

If you face any of these charges, you must speak to an attorney immediately.

FAQ – 

1. When does CPS report to the police?
   Child Protective Services (CPS) reports to the police when their investigation reveals immediate danger, abuse, or potential criminal activity involving a child. The first-rate CPS law enforcement protocols ensure that the child’s safety is prioritized in these situations.
2. When do police report to CPS?
   Police officers report to CPS when they encounter situations involving children that raise concerns of neglect, abuse, or danger. This cps and law enforcement collaboration allows protective services to begin an appropriate cps investigation.
3. Can CPS file criminal charges?
   While CPS does not directly file criminal charges, it can refer a case to law enforcement or the district attorney. From there, the court may pursue charges. A CPS investigation often leads to legal actions when severe allegations are involved, and having the skilled criminal defense is critical.
4. What happens when CPS and law enforcement work together?
   CPS and law enforcement often work together during severe abuse or neglect cases. Their joint investigation ensures comprehensive review of allegations, safety planning, and child custody issues, where the leading criminal defense may be necessary.
5. Can a CPS investigation impact child custody?
   Yes, a CPS investigation can lead to changes in child custody arrangements, especially if safety concerns are substantiated. If protective services get involved, the court may issue temporary or permanent changes in custody.

6. Why is a criminal defense attorney important during CPS involvement?
If CPS law enforcement coordination leads to criminal implications, a skilled criminal defense lawyer ensures your rights are protected in court while also helping navigate complex custody and investigation matters.

WHAT SHOULD YOU IF YOU ARE DEALING WITH A CPS CASE, JUVENILE DEPENDENCY CASE, OR CRIMINAL CASE?

If you have been accused of child abuse or child neglect, it is crucial to get an attorney as soon as possible.

You deserve to have a lawyer who will help you fight to get your children back. If you are dealing with a juvenile dependency case, child-welfare services case, or CPS case in Orange County, California, or Southern California, you need the juvenile dependency attorneys at ALL Trial Lawyers by your side.

Don’t risk calling the wrong lawyer. If CPS is investigating you, you do not have to deal with them alone. 

We know how the juvenile court process in California works. We have handled hundreds of juvenile dependency cases in Orange County, San Diego County, Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County.

We have an office located near you, and we’re ready to start working on your case.

Call us now to speak to a lawyer and for your free consultation. Call (866) 811-4255.

Dealing with a CPS case can be scary. You don’t have to face a CPS case alone.

We serve all of California. Call us now. All of our consultations are free and confidential.

Case Results