Dependency and Neglect

It’s every parent’s worst nightmare – getting a knock on their door from a Department of Human Services caseworker. I understand the fear you are feeling and the questions you have: “Are my kids going to be put in foster care?” “What are my rights as a parent?” “Do I have to talk to the Caseworker?” 

I’m here to answer those questions. 

“Dependency and neglect” is the legal term for any case that involves child protective services. In Colorado, that agency is called the Department of Human Services. This term encompasses minor allegations of neglect or child abuse as well as court proceedings where termination of parental rights is an option. 

When a call has been made to Colorado’s child abuse hotline, there are a couple of different possible outcomes. If the allegation is serious enough, the department may open a court case immediately. Otherwise, a caseworker will do an investigation. This typically involves interviewing your child and yourself. 

Once the investigation is complete, the caseworker determines whether abuse or neglect occurred. If the caseworker determines that the allegation is “unfounded” or “inconclusive,” the investigation is closed, and no further action is taken. 

If the caseworker determines that abuse or neglect occurred, you will receive a report of a “founded” finding. You will also receive notice that your name has been entered in Colorado’s TRAILS database. You have the option to appeal that entry, and to request that your name be expunged from TRAILS. 

At the end of the investigation, the caseworker can also open a formal dependency and neglect proceeding in the juvenile court. For an overview of what that process looks like, please check out this blog post. 

If your family is involved with the Colorado Department of Human Services, you need an advocate who can help you navigate the system and alleviate your fears. I’m here to help. 

I'm here to help you make some changes.

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