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DYFS in New Jersey

DYFS has torn apart hundreds of New Jersey families since it’s inception. It has broken the bonds countless times between parents and children, leaving behind broken homes, broken hearts and broken lives.

Our team knows that DYFS is too powerful and must be stopped. We understand that while the intent of the Department is to help families, at times DYFS caseworkers may use incorrect procedures or improper ways to separate families and keep children away from their loving families and relatives.

The foster care that DYFS offers can be challenging and there are countless stories of the children that have been placed in them. DYFS profits financially with each new case they bring in. Our team has seen many instances where DYFS does not place priority on the ‘family’ or attempt to reunify families when that should be one of their first goals.

DYFS cases can move quickly – and when it comes to your children you can never be too careful. If you are involved with DYFS get in contact right away.

DYFS – Your Rights and Responsibilities

Have you or someone you know become involved in a DYFS case because of suspected abuse or neglect? If so, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities. Even if don’t see your child often, there are several actions you can take to ensure your child is safe and returns to live with their family where they belong.

DYFS cases are critical and your child’s court case may move forward quickly. Important decisions must be made about items such as:

Where your child will live
What services your child will require
Which relatives your child will visit or remain in contact with

The first step is to understand how to help your child through this process and how to protect the rights of your child.

Understand Your DYFS Rights

As a parent, you have rights to your DYFS case. Both mothers and fathers have the right to:

You have the right to be notified well in advance of all court hearings.
You have the right to respond to any and all allegations of abuse or neglect that are made against you.
You have the right to appear, contribute and speak in your court case.
You have the right to an interpreter if English is your second language or are hearing-impaired.
You have the right to hire a lawyer who will defend you in court.
You have the right to an impartial judge and a fair trial.
You have the right to be in contact on a continuous basis with your child unless the division or agency finds it is not in your child’s best interest or may be harmful to them.
You have the right to ask for custody of your child.

Protecting Your Rights Against DYFS

If you think your rights are not being protected at the next court hearing inform the judge. If you believe that the judge is not being impartial contact the department and request to switch judges. Prepare for all future court hearings in advance. Make sure to speak with your lawyer regularly make sure your lawyer clearly communicates your goals and what you want. Be sure to visit with your children as often as you are permitted to. At the end of the day, this is not a fight between you and the judge, DYFS caseworker or the other parent. It is about the future of your child and their well-being.