Dependency and Neglect  Attorney in Greeley

Mandatory reporting is an important responsibility for many of the professionals your children and family come into contact with. This means that any time one of these professionals (teacher, therapist, doctor, etc.) suspects child abuse or neglect has occurred, they must file a report with the Greeley Police or Department of Human Services (Social Services). Once the report is made, Social Services investigates the allegations and many times a case is opened with the Weld, Morgan or Logan County courts. These cases are called Dependency and Neglect (D & N) matters.

Consequences of Dependency and Neglect Cases in Weld County

Even though Dependency and Neglect cases are filed in court, they are not criminal cases. This means the accused is not being prosecuted for a crime, but there can still be life-changing consequences. The most severe repercussion is when someone’s parental rights are terminated. That is why it is imperative to have an experienced D & N attorney help protect you and your family throughout your D & N case.

Examples of Dependency and Neglect

Many times in Greeley, Windsor, and Evans, Dependency and Neglect cases stem from allegations that a child is living in an unsafe environment. Or sometimes, an accusation that an infant is not receiving proper care provokes a Dependency and Neglect case. Usually, Human Services will begin the investigation by removing the teenager or child from the home and placing them in foster care. This can be very damaging to your child’s emotional and mental health. Regrettably, Social Services only focuses on the physical injury to kids, not the other types of harm this unnecessary removal can cause. We work tirelessly to get your children home and keep them where they belong. The government does not raise children well.

How D & N Cases Turn Into Criminal Charges 

Once the accused receives notice that a Dependency and Neglect Petition has been filed, they are expected to appear in court. At this point, the case is still considered a civil matter, but Human Services can take the case further and Child Abuse charges can be filed by a District Attorney. Any statements made during a D & N case can be used against the accused in a criminal Child Abuse case. You need a trustworthy and knowledgeable lawyer on your side to protect you and get your children back in your custody as quickly as possible. Having an attorney during your D & N case can reduce your chances of Child Abuse charges being filed.