Dependency Attorney in Orange County: A Quick Guide

Dependency Attorney in Orange County: A Quick Guide

What Allegations Lead to a Juvenile Dependency Case?

Child abuse and neglect allegations are serious matters in any jurisdiction, including Orange County, California. Under California’s Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) Section 300, such allegations could result in children being removed from their homes.

WIC 300 is designed to protect children from circumstances of harm, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, serious emotional damage, and neglect, among others.

California defines several circumstances that constitute child abuse or neglect. These include:

1. Actual or risk of physical harm: If the child has suffered, or there is a substantial risk that the child will suffer, serious physical harm inflicted non-accidentally by the parent or guardian.
2. Sexual abuse: The child has been sexually abused, or there is a substantial risk of sexual abuse, committed by a parent, guardian, household member or other person known to the parent capable of caring for the child.
3. Emotional damage: The child is suffering serious emotional damage, or is at risk of suffering such damage. Evidence of emotional damage includes severe anxiety, depression, withdrawal, or untoward aggressive behavior toward self or others.
4. Severe physical abuse: The child under five is suffering severe physical abuse by a parent, guardian, or member of the household, or a person known by the parent or guardian.
5. Neglect: The child has suffered, or there is a substantial risk that the child will suffer, serious physical harm or illness due to the failure of the parent or guardian to adequately supervise or protect the child.

The WIC 300 is comprehensive, ensuring protection from a wide array of potential harm. A dependency attorney in Orange County can help parents and guardians understand these provisions and their implications.

What Does a Dependency Attorney Do?

A dependency attorney plays a pivotal role in cases involving allegations of child abuse or neglect. These professionals possess expertise in WIC 300 and are adept at safeguarding the rights of parents and children.

They can help parents navigate the complex legal landscape, prepare for court proceedings, and present a strong defense against allegations. Their goal is to ensure that families can stay together, wherever it is safe and appropriate to do so.

What Does the Juvenile Dependency Court Do?

The Juvenile Dependency Court in Orange County is the judicial system’s arm handling such cases. The court’s main objective is to ensure the safety and well-being of children.

If allegations are proven, the court’s function extends to deciding the necessary interventions and monitoring the child’s situation.

A dependency attorney can proficiently guide families through every stage of the process, from initial hearings to reunification or adoption, as the situation warrants.

In Orange County, the Juvenile Dependency Court is the Lamoreaux Justice Center. The ALL Trial Lawyers office is across the street from the Lamoreaux Justice Center.

WHAT SHOULD YOU IF YOU NEED A CPS DEFENSE LAWYER OR JUVENILE DEPENDENCY LAWYER IN ORANGE COUNTY?

If you have been accused of abuse or neglect, it is crucial to get a CPS lawyer as soon as possible.

You deserve to have a CPS 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 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.

Whether you are in Newport Beach, Irvine, Fullerton, Laguna Hills, Mission Viejo, Garden Grove, Anaheim, or any city in Orange County, we are here to help.

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

Call us now to speak to a CPS 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.

OUR ORANGE COUNTY JUVENILE DEPENDENCY OFFICE LOCATION

In summary, facing allegations under WIC 300 can be a daunting prospect.

However, with the right legal support from a seasoned dependency attorney in Orange County, families can navigate this challenging situation more confidently and effectively, aiming for the best possible outcome for all involved.