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Working Toward Reunification When CPS takes your child, every minute is filled with fear. The CPS system, housed under the Division of Child Protection and Permanency in New Jersey, is not as efficient as it could be. Agency protocol can make it difficult for parents to get their children back even after addressing the issues…

Caseworkers from New Jersey’s child welfare agency (DCP&P) implement safety protection plans when they identify safety concerns in the home.

It is not uncommon for one parent to call in a CPS report with allegations against the parent in an attempt to get custody or revenge when they are having marital conflict or getting a divorce. Even if the allegation was false, involving CPS in marital conflict can get ugly very quickly.

While many foster youths in New Jersey can be placed with licensed resource families or relatives, those with unique needs and challenges may be placed in residential care facilities.

The termination of parental rights is dealt with through guardianship proceedings. A guardianship complaint can be filed to initiate these proceedings, also referred to as Title 30 proceedings.

The State of New Jersey must make a concerted effort to prevent separation by providing crisis intervention for families who’re in at-risk scenarios. The Family Preservation Services Program supports this effort.

Parents have a right to live with and take care of their children without intervention from the government, but when a child is at imminent risk of harm, the government can step in.

While the DCP&P has every child’s best interests in mind, no system is fail proof, especially when it comes to knowing what really goes on in a household. Fortunately, you do have the right to appeal findings from a child protection investigation.

A CASA is a Court Appointed Special Advocate that looks out for the best interests of the child. CASAs are appointed in child welfare cases when the child is living in foster care.