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Riverside CPS Defense & Juvenile Dependency Attorneys

If you have been accused of child abuse or child neglect, we understand that this can be an incredibly stressful situation. However, the government is going to conduct an investigation, and you need protection. At ALL Trial Lawyers, our Riverside dependency lawyers and Riverside CPS defense lawyers have a reputation for aggressively representing our clients both in and out of the courtroom. We have handled more than 150 dependency cases throughout Riverside County and surrounding areas. You can rest assured that we understand how to handle dependency cases, and we know what it takes to stand up to Child Protective Services on your behalf.

Riverside Juvenile Dependency Attorneys

What Does the Law Say About Dependency Cases?

A dependency case in Riverside can be opened for a variety of reasons. When we examine the Welfare and Institutions Code 300, we can see that these cases arise if a parent or guardian of a child is accused by the government agency of abuse and/or neglect.  In general, we will see that these cases arise after a person witnesses what they believe to be child abuse or neglect and reports it to various agencies (emergency responders, Department of Public Social Services, Child Protective Services (DPSS-CPS), local police departments, etc.).

After a case is reported, DPSS will open an official investigation and send employees to the home of the child to examine the situation. This will include interviews with the parents or guardians as well as the child. There are various reasons why a child may be removed from a home and become a dependent of the court.  While this seems pretty simple at first glance, these are very complex cases with many subtleties that require a professional who understands dependency law to represent your interests.

  • The child suffered serious physical harm, or it is determined that the child is at risk of suffering from serious physical harm.
  • The parents are guardians harmed due to neglect by failing to provide a child with food, shelter, clothing, or medical care.
  • The child was sexually abused or is at risk of being sexually abused.
  • A parent or guardian knew a child was being sexually abused and failed to stop it.
  • A parent or guardian caused the death of another child through neglect or abuse.
  • A child was left alone without the means to support themselves.

Will My Child Be Okay While a Case Is Ongoing?

While a dependency case is ongoing in Riverside, where a child resides depends on what the court believes is in the best interest of the child. This will also depend on the severity of the allegations against a parent or guardian.

In some circumstances, a child could be placed in foster care while the dependency proceedings are ongoing. If appropriate, a child may be allowed to live with a close family member. In rare cases, a child may be allowed to reside in a home with their parent or guardian, but with court and agency supervision.

If a child is placed outside of your care, we will assist you in navigating the reunification process to quickly get your child home back where he or she belongs.

Call a Riverside Dependency Attorney Today

If you have been accused of child abuse or child neglect anywhere in Riverside or throughout the larger county area, turn to the team ALL Trial Lawyers for help with your case today. We firmly believe that any person facing these accusations deserves a vigorous defense as they work to ensure their rights are upheld. We want to make sure that your child custody rights remain intact so you can get back to living your life with your family. When you need a Riverside dependency lawyer or CPS defense 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.