Three People Who May Be Involved in an Illinois DCFS Investigation

 Posted on December 23, 2021 in Family Law

Getting the news that you are being investigated by the Illinois Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) may be one of the most frightening and confusing moments of your life. You may wonder who is responsible for making the report that triggered the investigation and feel angry that your parenting abilities are being called into question. In our last post, we discussed what the DCFS investigation process looks like and whether DCFS has the ability to take a child out of their parent’s home. In this post, we will look at some of the people who are frequently involved in DCFS investigations. Each DCFS case is unique, so if you have any questions, be sure to talk to a qualified Illinois family law attorney. 

Child Protection or Welfare Specialists 

A Child Protection Specialist is a DCFS investigator responsible for doing the footwork of determining whether allegations of child abuse or neglect are true. They can determine whether a crime has been committed and whether a child is, or will soon be, in immediate danger. They can perform scheduled or unscheduled home visits, and can even remove the child from the home if they believe it is necessary. DCFS investigators can also create safety plans with parents to make arrangements for the child to stay with someone else if the child’s home situation deteriorates. 

State’s Attorney

If a parent wants to challenge the findings of a DCFS investigation, an attorney working with the Illinois Attorney General’s office will represent DCFS. They may interview witnesses, introduce evidence, and argue the state’s case to an administrative law judge who can uphold or overturn DCFS’s findings. Parents and their attorneys may cross-examine the state’s evidence, present their own evidence, and make an argument to the judge that the state is wrong about its conclusions. 

Guardians ad Litem

In serious cases that require a modification in child custody arrangements, a guardian ad litem (GAL) may be appointed. GALs are court-appointed representatives who are responsible for investigating what is in the best interests of the child. They act as an attorney for a child and can make suggestions to an Illinois court about a child’s living arrangements. Guardians ad litem can work with DCFS regarding allegations or findings and, if age appropriate, will talk to the child about his or her preferences. 

Call a Skokie DCFS Investigation Lawyer

If you are being investigated by DCFS, you are likely wondering what to expect. At The Law Offices of Curtis Bennett Ross, L.L.C., we are committed to explaining the investigation process, standing by you throughout the investigation, and ensuring your rights are protected. To schedule a free limited consultation with an experienced Cook County family law attorney, call our offices today at 312-984-1514. 

Sources: 

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=242&ChapterID=5 

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+VI&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=8675000&SeqEnd=12200000