Q: Hi, how do I go about fighting a neglect charge through dcyf?
My state appointed lawyer is trying to get the neglect charge dropped however, the lawyer informed me it's unlikely. If dcyf refused to drop the neglect charge, what happens when I refuse to admit to the neglect? Family law doesn't require the state to provide actual evidence in any charges therefore, the neglect charge is based on hearsay. My child was never neglected in anyway, shape or form and I refuse to let them put neglect on my record without fighting for myself. My state appointed lawyer told me its "not a big deal" however, I disagree. A neglect charge can impact a hypothetical custody battle and my career. I have worked as a residential counselor prior to this happening and was intending on returning to the field. A neglect charge will go on my CANTS report and will disqualify me for any position in that field.
A: If you are not satisfied with your court appointed lawyer(often, some of the most experienced attorneys in this area), You are free to retain private counsel to assist you. If the facts are against you and the investigation yielded sufficient information to indicate a finding of neglect, you may well still be found guilty of neglect. Speak with your lawyer directly about your concerns for the possible impact of a confidential finding in person.
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
