Getting A Child Back From CYF
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.
It is always a traumatic situation when Child Protective Services (CPS) intervenes and removes a child from your home, but this does not have to be permanent. You have rights when it comes to getting a child back from CPS and restoring your family.
A Pittsburgh CPS attorney with Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC will help you navigate the complexities of CPS investigations, including the steps necessary for getting a child back from CPS. We care about families and their happiness. Call (412) 471-5100 to learn how Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC can help you.
What is CPS?
The Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS) oversees the Office of Children, Youth, and Families (CYF) to protect children suffering abuse and neglect. The agency must remove a child if staying in that home will likely compromise their safety. CPS will place a child either in a temporary foster home or with relatives like grandparents while the agency conducts its investigation.
Getting a Child Back from CPS
A CPS investigation must result in sufficient evidence that a child faces present and immediate threats to make removal from his/her home long-term. Insufficient evidence means a child will be returned home.
You can take steps during the investigation period to support getting a child back from CPS. To begin, you should contact a lawyer to better understand what caused you to lose custody, even if only temporarily. Write down anything you can remember that may have sparked the situation and include the names of people who were witnesses. You also need to know what you need to demonstrate in court to better ensure a ruling in your favor. An experienced family attorney can offer guidance to help you navigate the situation.
You should also address the issues that caused you to lose custody and try your best to resolve them. For example, enter rehab if you abuse alcohol and/or drugs. Enroll in counseling and parenting classes if your conduct could be perceived as abusive or neglectful so that you correct those behaviors the court considers dangerous and reckless. Your attorney can guide you to the resources you need to resolve the complications that led to your custody loss.
In addition, request a professional child custody evaluator to examine your case as well as to observe you in your home and your interactions with your child. An evaluator will be able to assess a child’s home and family relationships to help decide what and where will be in a child’s best interest.
Lastly, do everything expected of you while you are working toward getting a child back from CPS. Attend every court hearing and be certain to visit your child when the court says you can to show how important your child is to you.
Contact Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC to Help
You need a knowledgeable attorney when it comes to getting a child back from CPS. The situation is serious, but not impossible. The skilled and compassionate Pittsburgh CPS attorney Anthony Piccirilli will listen to you and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and the rights of your family.
Contact (412) 471-5100 to schedule a consultation.