Montgomery County Children & Youth Services (CPS) is entrusted with the duty to probe into reports of maltreatment, dereliction, or jeopardy of the children of the county’s children.
The agency’s duty is to protect children from harm. While it mainly operates within the realm of family law, if investigators find evidence of serious wrongdoing like abuse or neglect, they won’t hesitate to bring in law enforcement and file criminal charges.
If you’re facing criminal charges after a CPT investigation, a Montgomery County criminal defense lawyer from McKenzie Law Firm can help you fight those charges and ensure your legal rights.
Children & Youth Services in Montgomery County is committed to the welfare of children. Through collaborative efforts with other state and county agencies and professionals, CPS extends a helping hand to families facing difficult times.
CPS starts by collecting reports from people who are required to report abuse or anyone else who’s worried about a child’s wellbeing. The agency thoroughly investigates these reports, assessing the severity of the issues and the level of danger they pose to the children involved.
When CPS verifies these concerns, they offer tailored assistance—such as counseling or rehabilitation—to address family issues. However, in urgent situations, CPS doesn’t hesitate to utilize legal measures to ensure the safety of the children, including seeking court orders for their removal or placement in secure environments.
Common reasons for CPS Intervention include:
Neglect Concerns: CPS may intervene if there are worries that children aren’t getting the proper care, supervision, or basic needs like food, clothing, or a safe place to live.
Abuse Reports: CPS gets involved when there are reports of child abuse, whether it’s physical, emotional, or sexual, brought to their attention by concerned individuals.
Hazardous Environment: CPS intervenes if a child’s living conditions are unsafe, which could include exposure to dangerous substances, domestic violence, involvement in violent crimes, or severe neglect.
Challenges you may face when CPS presses criminal charges against you:
Emotional Turmoil: The uncertainty of CPS involvement and the fear of losing custody can lead to heightened stress and anxiety.
Social Stigma: CPS scrutiny may bring shame, embarrassment, and the worry of being seen as an unfit parent.
Legal Challenges: Navigating the legal aspects of CPS investigations and court procedures can be difficult, particularly without adequate legal support.
Family Disruption: CPS involvement can strain family bonds and disrupt daily routines, affecting the well-being of both parents and children.
Financial Pressure: Legal expenses, court fees, and the costs associated with meeting CPS requirements can add significant financial strain to families already facing difficulties.
You don’t have to tackle these hurdles alone. With a dedicated Children & Youth Services attorney from McKenzie Law Firm, you’ll have unwavering support throughout the process, ensuring your worries are addressed and your legal entitlements are protected.
Getting a Children & Youth Services lawyer involved early on helps the attorney grasp the situation swiftly and devise a plan to safeguard you. This proactive approach can prevent the situation from worsening.
Here are the benefits of involving a lawyer from the start:
Protection of Rights: Having legal representation from the beginning ensures your rights are safeguarded, and you’re fully aware of your options and responsibilities throughout the process.
Preventing Unwanted Outcomes: Timely legal intervention increases the chances of achieving positive results, such as avoiding unnecessary removal of children from their homes or lessening the impact of CPS involvement on the family.
Emotional Support: Besides legal assistance, your lawyer offers emotional support and encouragement to ease the stress and worry linked with CPS interaction, empowering you to navigate the process confidently.
Regarding Children & Youth Services matters, having a skilled CPS lawyer is crucial, especially if criminal allegations exist. At David McKenzie Law Firm, we know Montgomery County’s laws inside and out. We provide personalized representation to protect your rights during CPS involvement.
Here are some of the services we provide. Keep in mind that every case is unique, and not all of these services may be relevant to your situation.
Initial Evaluation and Discussion
Development of Legal Plan
Communication and Support
Court Representation
Working with Other Experts
Follow-Up and Oversight
Don’t fight the criminal allegations brought against you by Montgomery County Children & Youth Services alone. McKenzie Law Firm will defend your legal rights and offer the best solutions for you and your family.
Contact us today for your free consultation.
