Juvenile Dependency Cases in San Diego County: Child Welfare Services Can Take Your Children Away From You in 2022

June 27, 2022

Juvenile Dependency

San Diego County Child Welfare Services: Neglect and Abuse Violations Lead to Juvenile Dependency Case

In San Diego County, Child Welfare Services is responsible for investigating allegations of neglect and abuse. Recently, there has been an increase in juvenile dependency cases due to neglect and abuse allegations.

If you are a parent in San Diego County and are accused of violating Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) Section 300, you could end up with a juvenile dependency case.

This blog will explain what a juvenile dependency case is and the role Child Welfare Services plays in juvenile dependency cases.

What is a Juvenile Dependency Case?

A juvenile dependency case starts when Child Welfare Services gets a report that a child might be neglected or abused. If Child Welfare Services finds that the allegations are true and the child is at risk of being harmed, they will ask the court to make the child a dependent of the juvenile court. This action means the child will be removed from the home and placed in foster care or with another relative.

The juvenile court will then make decisions about the child’s custody, visitation, and medical treatment. The juvenile court will also ensure that the child receives necessary services, such as mental health services or drug treatment.

What is Child Welfare Services’ Role in Juvenile Dependency Cases?

Child Welfare Services (CWS) is responsible for investigating allegations of neglect and abuse. CWS investigates reports of suspected child abuse and neglect and intervenes with families who do not meet the minimum community standards of health and safety as required by law.

If Child Welfare Services finds that the allegations are true and the child is at risk of being harmed, they will ask the court to make the child a dependent of the juvenile court. Child Welfare Services will also provide services to the family, such as family counseling or parenting classes.

Why is Child Welfare Services Investigating My Family?

Anyone can make a claim of child abuse or neglect by calling the Child Abuse Hotline or the police. Unfortunately, your social worker is not permitted to tell you who made the report by law.

CWS is supposed to review the information and decide whether a referral should be assigned to investigate the issue further. Usually, if there is concern about a child, the Hotline will assign the referral to an Emergency Response social worker. The social worker will come to the house to investigate the allegations.

If the social worker finds that there is a likelihood that the allegations are true, they can remove the children from home and recommend that a juvenile dependency case be opened.

Some people are mandated reporters and must by law inform CWS if they suspect child abuse or neglect. For example, California Law says that professionals like teachers, doctors, daycare workers, or childcare providers “suspect” that a child is being hurt or neglected, they must report it.

What is Child Abuse and Neglect in California?

The California Penal Code defines various types of child abuse and neglect. Some of the more common types of abuse and neglect are:

-Physical abuse: A wide range of conduct can be considered physical abuse. Actions such as slapping, punching, pushing, whipping, and burning could all fall into this category.

-Sexual abuse: This can include fondling, rape, or sodomy.

-Neglect: This can include not providing food, clothing, or shelter, not providing medical care, or leaving a child home alone.

-Emotional abuse: This can include name-calling, belittling, or making a child feel worthless.

If Child Welfare Services is investigating you, you must contact an experienced juvenile dependency attorney as soon as possible. The social workers are not your friends.

My Kids Were Removed From My Home. Where Are They Being Taken?

When a social worker removes children from home, they are usually taken to a foster home or a relative’s home. If no one is available to take the children, they may be placed in a group home. The goal is always to try and place the child with someone who knows them.

Who Will Make Decisions Regarding My Child Moving Forward?

Do I Have Any Rights?

As the parent, you have Constitutional and State given rights that are applicable in a juvenile dependency proceeding. If your children were removed from your home, you have the right to:

– Receive a notice that explains why your children were removed from your home;

– Attend a court hearing within 72 hours of the removal;

– Have an attorney represent you at the hearing; and

– Speak at the hearing.

Is it Possible to Get My Child Back?

The juvenile court process is designed to help families, not punish them. As a result, it is possible to get your child back. Working with an experienced attorney makes it possible to get your child back and end this nightmare.

It is important to understand that the juvenile dependency system is complicated and can be overwhelming. The juvenile dependency system can be complex and confusing. If you are a parent in San Diego County and have been accused of neglect or abuse, it is important to contact an experienced juvenile dependency attorney immediately. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the juvenile dependency system and protect your rights.

What Should I Do If I Have a Juvenile Dependency Case in San Diego County?

You deserve to have a lawyer who will help you fight to get your child(ren) back. If you are dealing with a Juvenile Dependency case, CWS case, or Criminal case related to child abuse or neglect, you need the juvenile dependency attorneys at ALL Trial Lawyers by your side.

Don’t risk calling the wrong lawyer.

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