Pittsburgh CPS Attorney
Issues involving Child Protective Services (CPS) can be complex and emotional. If you are in a situation where CPS has become involved, you need compassionate and experienced representation to ensure your rights are respected. You need to make sure your children are in the best possible situation and that everyone has their best interests in mind. We can help.
Attention:If you do not have an active case with CPS, we unfortunately cannot help and kindly request you do not call our law offices.
Contact a Pittsburgh CPS attorney at Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC to ensure your wishes are represented when the State becomes involved in the welfare of your children. Call us at (412) 471-5100 today to find out how we can help you.
Seek Legal Assistance in Challenging Family Law Matters
Parents want the best for their children. However, there can be difficulties when parents do not agree with one another on matters affecting their kids, including divorce, custody, or child support. You need someone on your side who will fight for what you believe is best for your children. Our Pittsburgh family lawyers can help.
Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC can help you with the following:
Pittsburgh Child Support Attorneys
Parents need to provide for their children even if they live in separate households. We can ensure you are getting the support you need to raise your children.
Pittsburgh Divorce Lawyers
A divorce can be difficult to navigate alone, especially when you’re trying to provide for your children. We can guide you through the process.
Child Custody Lawyers in Pittsburgh
Custody between divorced or separated parents can cause tension. We can help you create a plan that is the best for you and your family.
“I want to use my knowledge and experience to help families dealing with difficult situations. I can help them navigate the legal process while they focus on building a stronger family.”
Pittsburgh CPS Services & Topics
Any scenario where you may lose custody of your children or they can be removed from your home by state agencies can be challenging and stressful. If you are in this situation, you need legal assistance immediately. Our law firm has experience helping people throughout these scenarios.
Contact us for more information regarding:
Termination of Parental Rights — Under certain circumstances, your parental rights may be revoked or terminated, meaning your children could be removed from your home. Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC can help you understand your situation and how to move forward.
Foster & Kinship Care Attorneys in Pennsylvania — Children may be cared for by family members or in the foster care system. We can help you understand how these systems function and how placement happens.
What is the PA Child Protective Services Law?
The Pennsylvania Child Protective Services Law (CPSL) is designed to protect children from abuse and neglect. It mandates swift investigations into allegations of child abuse, promotes accurate reporting, and ensures children’s safety. While its intent is straightforward, the legal processes involved are often complex and challenging to navigate.
Originally enacted in 1975, CPSL has undergone numerous amendments to strengthen protections and broaden reporting requirements. The law involves local law enforcement, social services, and the courts to investigate and resolve claims of child abuse or neglect.
What Constitutes Child Abuse Under CPSL?
Under Pennsylvania law, “child abuse” includes acts, failures to act, or patterns of behavior that result in:
- Serious physical or mental injury to a child
- Sexual abuse or exploitation
- Creating an imminent risk of harm
Children, defined as individuals under 18 years of age, must be protected from any harm or exploitation that jeopardizes their health or well-being.
How a Pittsburgh CPS Attorney Can Help You
If CPS has contacted you, or if you’re under investigation for alleged abuse or neglect, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance immediately. Our attorneys can assist you in several key ways:
We Can Offer Representation During Investigations
A CPS investigation can feel invasive and accusatory. Our attorneys will:
- Advocate for your rights during home visits and interviews
- Ensure CPS follows proper procedures
- Advise you on cooperating without self-incrimination
We Will Challenge CPS Determinations
When CPS concludes its investigation, the findings could fall under one of three categories:
- Unfounded: No evidence of abuse or neglect
- Indicated: Evidence suggests abuse or neglect occurred
- Founded: Abuse or neglect has been legally substantiated
If your case is deemed “indicated” or “founded,” we can help you:
- Appeal the determination through administrative hearings
- Gather and present evidence to challenge the findings
- Work to have your case cleared to protect your reputation and future
We Wil Protect Your Parental Rights
When CPS intervenes, the stakes are high. In severe cases, CPS may petition for termination of parental rights or removal of children from the home. Our attorneys will:
- Fight for family reunification
- Advocate for fair treatment in court
- Develop strategies to comply with court orders and meet CPS requirements
What Are Some Common Scenarios That Involve CPS?
The Termination of Parental Rights
Losing parental rights can be devastating. If CPS seeks to terminate your rights, you need experienced legal representation to argue against this action and demonstrate your ability to provide a safe and stable home.
Foster and Kinship Care Placements
When children are removed from their homes, they may be placed with relatives or in foster care. Our attorneys can:
- Advocate for kinship placements
- Work to expedite reunification
- Ensure your parental rights remain intact during this process
Appealing CPS Findings
If your case is labeled as “indicated” or “founded,” our attorneys will act quickly to file an appeal. Pennsylvania has strict deadlines for appeals, and we’ll ensure your case is handled efficiently and effectively.
What Happens During a CPS Investigation in PA?
Once a report of alleged abuse or neglect is made, CPS must act quickly to investigate. Typically, investigations involve:
- Interviews with the child, parents, and others
- Home visits to assess safety and living conditions
- Review of medical, school, or other relevant records
CPS must complete its investigation within 30 days, though extensions are possible. Throughout this process, you have the right to legal representation to protect your interests and ensure CPS complies with the law.
What Are the Possible Outcomes of a CPS Investigation?
- Unfounded: No evidence of abuse or neglect is found.
- Indicated: CPS finds sufficient evidence of abuse or neglect.
- Founded: Abuse or neglect has been legally substantiated, often through court involvement.
Should I Hire a CPS Attorney?
Navigating CPS investigations and hearings can be overwhelming without experienced legal guidance. Hiring a CPS attorney ensures:
- Protection of Your Rights: We will safeguard your constitutional rights and prevent any violations during the process.
- Legal Knowledge: Our attorneys understand CPS procedures and can help you navigate this complex system.
- Tailored Strategies: We will develop a legal strategy based on the specifics of your case, from appealing findings to fighting for custody.
- Peace of Mind: With our team on your side, you can focus on your family while we handle the legal complexities.
At Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC, we’re dedicated to protecting families and ensuring children’s best interests are prioritized.