DCF Substantiation issues? Read this below for some useful information.
There are three possible results when Connecticut DCF completes an Investigation of abuse or neglect. They can do the following:
1. Unsubstantiate the allegations (i.e. not enough evidence to support abuse or neglect);
2. Substantiate the allegations but not recommend Central Registry placement;
3. Substantiate and recommend that the name of the alleged perpetrator be placed on the Central Abuse and Neglect Registry.
Of course, placement on the DCF Central Registry is the most serious result of a neglect or abuse Investigation as it can impact many aspects of one’s life including employment. Therefore, most recommendations for placement on the Central Registry should be appealed.
But even without a Central Registry placement here are a few reasons to appeal a DCF Substantiation in Connecticut should be appealed:
- Substantiated reports will be part of the DCF records indefinitely. Unlike Unsubstantiated cases, which can be expunged (erased) after 5 years.
- A DCF Substantiation is often used against parents as part of a custody case.
- A person usually cannot be licensed a foster parent with a DCF Substantiation.
- Juvenile and Probate Courts rarely allow a person with a DCF Substantiation to be awarded guardianship of a child.
- They were just flat out wrong in their conclusions. As a matter of principle, you demand to set the record straight.
DCF Appeals are time sensitive. If you fail to appeal within the allotted time you will forever lose your right to appeal. Therefore, there’s little room for errors in these appeals.
The appeals usually move fairly quickly so it’s important to start preparing as soon as possible. This way once the hearing is scheduled you will be ready to roll.
Connecticut DCF Substantiation Attorney
I represent clients in DCF proceedings though out Fairfield County including those who reside in Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Trumbull, Stratford, Bridgeport, Westport, Weston, New Canaan, Wilton, Norwalk, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich.
Please email me or call me in Stamford at (203) 356-1475 or in Fairfield at (203) 259-5251 if you have questions about a Connecticut DCF issue.