Child Maltreatment Fatalities in the Media
Reports of child maltreatment fatalities are on the rise as media coverage has indicated. But the increase in fatalities is due—in large part—to the limitations of state child welfare systems. Most notably, child maltreatment fatalities have increased predominately in Indiana and Texas. These are both states with struggling child welfare systems. Not surprisingly, in states with too many child welfare cases and too few resources, child maltreatment fatalities tend to increase. Fortunately, New Jersey’s child welfare agency, operated by the DCPP has recently undergone reform to reduce caseloads and minimize oversights, thus reducing the risk of fatalities.
Struggling Child Welfare Systems
Another contributing factor to the increase in child maltreatment fatalities in Texas, Indiana and across the country is the opioid crisis. Parents who struggle with opiate addiction face many challenges. They may struggle with providing their child with a safe home according to state standards. The death toll of this crisis is also a contributing factor. Many children are left orphaned after their parents overdose. And, due to the complex nature of opioid use and the limited access to treatment options, opioid overdose is distressingly common.
The Children Are the Ones Who Suffer Most
When combined, factors such as an increase in cases and fewer resources mean more children can potentially suffer. Fortunately, the DCPP is making strides towards more manageable caseloads and stricter protocol. Ultimately, this means more New Jersey children can be kept safe. But not all cases are handled as efficiently as they should be. As a consequence, the DCPP keeps some families needlessly broken apart simply because it’s unable to process their cases efficiently.
Dealing with the DCPP is challenging for any parent. You could encounter frequent caseworker turnover, lack of communication, and complicated safety plans. These may be your barriers to reuniting with your child. Thus, it’s important to consult with an experienced New Jersey DCPP defense attorney if you become involved with DCPP. Because the DCPP has recently made changes in protocol and case management practices, it’s especially important to have an attorney experienced in child abuse defense by your side.
Do you need child abuse defense in New Jersey? If so, Williams Law Group, LLC can help. Our skilled attorneys can help you in matters involving the DCPP. Located in Short Hills, New Jersey, Williams Law Group, LLC provides compassionate and dedicated legal services to Union, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Monmouth, and Middlesex counties, and the surrounding areas. Our knowledgeable attorneys handle divorce and family law, child custody, and child abuse/neglect cases. Call our office at (908) 810-1083, email us at info@awilliamslawgroup.com, or contact us through our confidential online form to schedule a consultation and ultimately get you connected with an experienced New Jersey divorce and child custody attorney.
