Here is a brief summary of the process of the Connecticut DCF Central Registry process:
1. DCF must substantiate child abuse or child neglect. Therefore, if DCF fails to substantiate abuse or neglect then there is no Central Registry placement.
2. If there has been a Substantiation for abuse or neglect DCF must then prove that the perpetrator “poses a risk to the health, safety or well-being of children.” This varies by case and is decided by evaluating the circumstances. A few factors include the intent of the perpetrator, the severity of the impact on the child victim and the chronicity of the perpetrator’s conduct.
3. There are certain instances which result in automatic recommendation for Placement on the DCF Central Registry. A few of these include: Sexual abuse, a prior Substantiation record for physical or emotional abuse or the perpetrator is arrested for the act of abuse or neglect and that act was ultimately Substantiated by DCF.
The recommendation by DCF for placement on the Central Registry may be appealed. The decision to appeal should be made immediately upon receipt of the DCF decision for Central Registry placement. These appeals are time sensitive. Missing a deadline or not following procedure can preclude the opportunity to appeal the DCF Substantiation finding and/or their Registry recommendation.
Please email me or call (203) 259-5251 to discuss a Connecticut DCF Central Registry appeal.