This is the first post in a series which will discuss whether Las Vegas fathers should contact Child Protective Services (CPS) in situations they believe to be an emergency. This is an important topic to discuss as many parents are unsure of whether CPS should become involved or the potential consequences of contacting such an agency. The goal of my coming articles is to provide information which help dads to understand all of their options. If you believe your child is facing a dangerous or emergency situation then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I will be discussing several topics over my coming articles. Issues which I will be analyzing include:
- When it is appropriate for a father to contact Child Protective Services
- The consequences of filing an unfounded CPS report
- What to expect if abuse/neglect proceedings are initiated against the mother
- How such a situation will impact child custody
These are important issues for a dad to understand. First, it is somewhat common for parents to consider the situation to be an “emergency” when, in fact, CPS will not see the matter as urgent. It is important to know what types of situations justify contacting the agency. Second, filing an unfounded CPS report can result in the reporting parent having their visitation and share of child custody reduced. Third, if abuse/neglect proceedings are initiated then the child may be placed with the father on a temporary basis. Finally, the Family Court will typically wait for the outcome of the CPS case before making a permanent change to the existing child custody order.
You should contact the police if you believe your child is in immediate danger. If you believe that your child is facing a detrimental, but not immediately dangerous, situation then it may be appropriate to contact CPS. As a Las Vegas fathers’ rights attorney I regularly help dads to determine their best course of action. Contact my office today.