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Los Angeles CPS Defense & Juvenile Dependency Attorneys

If you live in the Los Angeles area and have been accused of child abuse or child neglect, we know that this is a terrifying experience. You deserve legal representation to help you get through this entire process. At ALL Trial Lawyers, you can count on our Los Angeles dependency lawyers to handle every aspect of your case. We have the resources necessary to conduct a full investigation into the claims made against you, and we will work diligently to ensure that you are treated fairly by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), commonly referred to as Child Protective Services (CPS).

Our team has more than 150 dependency cases under their belts, and we approach every case with the determination to fight for you and your family. We offer 100% free consultations, and we can get to work on your case right away.
As leading Los Angeles dependency lawyers, our firm also regularly assists those searching for a CPS attorney near me or a seasoned juvenile dependency lawyer with experience navigating complex California penal code violations involving DCFS.

Leading Child Abuse Defense Attorneys in Los Angeles

Expert Legal Support for Child Abuse Allegations

At All Trial Lawyers, we specialize in defending clients against child abuse allegations in Los Angeles. Our team of seasoned child abuse lawyers is dedicated to safeguarding the rights and reputations of individuals facing these serious accusations. We understand the emotional and legal complexities involved in such cases and are committed to providing the highest level of legal representation.

Why Trust Us for Your Child Abuse Defense?

  • Extensive Legal Expertise: Our lawyers have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding child abuse allegations in Los Angeles. We bring years of experience in handling such sensitive cases with discretion and professionalism.
  • Personalized Defense Strategies: Recognizing that each case has its unique challenges, we tailor our defense strategies to suit the specific needs of our clients. Whether it’s negotiating with prosecutors or representing you in court, we are prepared to go the extra mile.
  • Focused on Protecting Your Rights: We are aware of the severe consequences that come with child abuse allegations. Our aim is to protect your rights and strive for the best possible outcome, be it case dismissal, reduced charges, or acquittal.
  • Compassionate and Confidential Service: We provide a supportive environment for our clients, ensuring confidentiality and empathy at every stage of the legal process. You can count on us to handle your case with the utmost care and respect.

Our Areas of Expertise Include:

  • Defense against false or exaggerated allegations of child abuse
  • Cases involving physical, emotional, and sexual abuse claims
  • Dealing with Child Protective Services (CPS) and the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)
  • Child neglect and endangerment cases
  • Legal advice and representation in court hearings and appeals

Our Promise to You

Facing child abuse allegations can be overwhelming and frightening. With Mo, you have a team that stands by your side, offering expert legal advice and robust defense. We are dedicated to preserving your dignity and rights throughout this challenging period.

Los Angeles Juvenile Dependency Attorneys

What Is a “Dependency” Case in Los Angeles?

Dependency cases in Los Angeles are created if a parent or guardian is accused of child abuse or neglect. When we help parents or guardians with these situations, we often discover that these cases arise after someone reports alleged abuse or neglect to the police department or the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). After a report has been made, DCFS will open a formal investigation and send workers to the child’s home to determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged abuse or neglect.

When examining the Welfare and Institutions Code 300, we can see that there are various reasons why a child may be removed from a home and become a dependent of the court. The law allows for a child to be removed from a home if they have been seriously harmed or sexually abused, or if they are at risk of suffering serious physical harm or sexual abuse.

A child can also be removed from a home if they have been harmed due to the neglect of a parent to provide the child with proper food, clothing, medical care, or shelter.

Additionally, if a parent or guardian knew that a child was being abused either physically or sexually and failed to act to stop the abuse, the child could become a dependent of the court.

Whether you’re facing a new investigation or navigating a current juvenile dependency case, having a reliable dependency attorney by your side is critical.

What Will Happen to My Child?

While awaiting a decision pertaining to the dependency hearing in Los Angeles, where a child resides will depend on the circumstances surrounding each situation. If the allegations made against a parent or guardian are particularly severe, a child will likely be placed in out of home care during the proceedings.  DCFS must evaluate relatives for possible placement, but placement in a foster home is also a possibility.  We can help ensure your family members are appropriately assessed for placement, if needed.

If the allegations are less severe, a close family member may be allowed to take the child. Very rarely, a child may be allowed to live in the home with their parent or guardian, but this will require close supervision from the court.

Every juvenile dependency lawyer at our firm is trained in interpreting the nuances of California’s penal code and advocating fiercely for parents in juvenile dependency court.

Contact a Los Angeles Dependency Attorney Today

If you have been accused of child abuse or neglect in Los Angeles or the surrounding LA County area, you need to speak to a skilled attorney as soon as possible. At ALL Trial Lawyers, our team has extensive experience handling complex dependency and DCFS cases. We firmly believe that every parent accused in these situations deserves a vigorous defense against the allegations that have been made by the police or DCFS. When you need a Los Angeles dependency lawyer, you can contact us for a consultation of your case by clicking here or calling us at (866) 811-4255.

CPS / Dependency Case FAQ

  1. What is a dependency case?

    • It’s a legal case opened when the state believes a child is at risk due to abuse or neglect.
  2. What starts a CPS case?

    • A report made to authorities like police or social services about suspected abuse or neglect.
  3. Who investigates CPS claims?

    • The Social Services Agency (SSA) investigates after a report.
  4. What is the role of a dependency attorney?

    • To defend your parental rights and fight for family reunification.
  5. How quickly is court involved after child removal?

    • A Detention Hearing must happen within 48 hours, excluding weekends and holidays.
  6. Can my child be removed without warning?

    • Yes, if the agency believes there’s immediate danger.
  7. Where will my child go during proceedings?

    • Possible foster care or placement with a relative, depending on the situation.
  8. Can my child stay at home during the case?

    • Yes, with court approval and Social Services supervision.
  9. What are common reasons for removal?

    • Physical harm, neglect, drug abuse, emotional abuse, or lack of care.
  10. What is the goal of a dependency case?

    • To protect the child and work toward family reunification if possible.
  11. What is a Detention Hearing?

    • A hearing to decide if the child should stay out of the home temporarily.
  12. What is a Detention Hearing?

    • A hearing to decide if the child should stay out of the home temporarily.
  13. What is Welfare and Institutions Code 300?

    • The California law that defines when a child can be made a dependent of the court.
  14. Can a case be based on emotional abuse?

    • Yes, if there’s evidence the child has suffered or is at risk.
  15. Can a case be based on drug use?

    • Yes, if substance abuse creates risk or neglect.
  16. What if someone falsely accuses me?

    • Your attorney can challenge the claims and present your side in court.
  17. What happens at the initial court appearance?

    • The judge decides on temporary custody and next steps.
  18. Can I get my child back quickly?

    • Possibly, with strong evidence and compliance with court conditions.
  19. Do I need a lawyer?

    • Absolutely—CPS cases are complex and high-stakes.
  20. Will I see my child during the case?

    • Usually, through supervised visits if the court allows.
  21. Can CPS help place my child with relatives?

    • Yes, it’s considered before foster care.
  22. What is family reunification?

    • The process of working toward safely returning your child home.
  23. What services might be required for reunification?

    • Parenting classes, therapy, substance abuse treatment, etc.
  24. How long do these cases last?

    • Cases vary but can take several months or more.
  25. Will the court listen to my side?

    • Yes, especially with legal representation.
  26. Can I appeal the court’s decision?

    • Yes, through the California dependency court system.
  27. Can CPS lie or misrepresent facts?

    • If they do, your attorney can challenge them in court.
  28. Do they always remove children?

    • No, removal is only one of several options.
  29. What if I have a prior case?

    • It could impact current proceedings depending on relevance.
  30. Can both parents lose custody?

    • Yes, if both are found unfit.
  31. Can I refuse CPS entry to my home?

    • Yes, unless they have a warrant or believe there’s immediate danger.
  32. What is a safety plan?

    • A voluntary agreement with CPS to avoid removal.
  33. What is “substantiated” abuse?

    • Abuse that’s supported by evidence after investigation.
  34. What is a case plan?

    • A court-ordered roadmap for parents to regain custody.
  35. Can I modify a case plan?

    • Yes, with court approval and proof of progress.
  36. What is the role of SSA?

    • Investigate, recommend placement, and supervise services.
  37. What happens if I don’t follow the court’s orders?

    • You could lose custody permanently.
  38. Can a guardian or grandparent step in?

    • Yes, the court may consider other family for temporary custody.
  39. What if my child wants to return home?

    • The court may consider their wishes, depending on age and circumstances.
  40. What are my rights as a parent?

    • Right to a lawyer, to present evidence, and to reunification efforts.
  41. Can I request a new social worker?

    • Yes, but it requires valid justification.
  42. What if CPS doesn’t follow the law?

    • Your attorney can challenge their actions in court.
  43. Can CPS drug test me?

    • With consent or court order.
  44. What is concurrent planning?

    • Planning for both reunification and adoption as backup.
  45. Can my rights be terminated?

    • Yes, if reunification fails and the court finds it’s in the child’s best interest.
  46. What is legal guardianship?

    • A relative or adult takes legal responsibility for the child.
  47. Can I get my child back after guardianship?

    • It’s possible with court approval and changed circumstances.
  48. What happens if my case is closed?

    • Your child may return home, or a permanent plan is implemented.
  49. Can I adopt my child if rights are terminated?

    • Not if you’re the parent; rights must remain intact to adopt.
  50. What is a 6-month review?

    • Court reviews your progress and revisits custody decisions.
  51. What is a 12-month review?

    • Another major milestone to evaluate reunification progress.
  52. Can my child speak to the judge?

    • Yes, especially if they’re older or mature.
  53. How do I prepare for court?

    • Work with your lawyer, gather evidence, and follow all case requirements.
  54. What if my child is placed out of county?

    • You can request visitation and updates through court.
  55. What if the allegations are minor?

    • They can still trigger a case if the child is at risk.
  56. What if CPS visits my home unexpectedly?

    • You can ask for ID and call a lawyer before answering questions.
  57. Can CPS remove my child for discipline?

    • Only if discipline is excessive or abusive.
  58. What is an emergency removal?

    • When CPS takes a child immediately due to urgent danger.
  59. What if CPS offers voluntary services?

    • Consider them seriously—they may prevent court involvement.
  60. What makes All Trial Lawyers different?

    • Aggressive courtroom strategy, personal dedication, and a strong record in CPS defense.