Q: My 19 month old was taken without notification an unfounded. How do I get her back now?!

A: Call OCS (269-4000 if you're in Anchorage). Give your child's name and ask to be connected with the assigned social worker. You'll probably get voicemail, so leave all your contact info and let him/her know you have not received notice. If you don't reach the social worker quickly, call again and ask for the worker's supervisor. Leave the same information with him/her.

Next, go to the Children's Court desk. In Anchorage it's in the basement of the Nesbett Courthouse downtown (the one with the Totem Poles out front). Give them your child's name and birth date and ask if a Petition has been filed. If so, ask for a copy and the date and time of the next court date. Tell them you want to request appointment of an attorney. You'll have to fill out an application that requires financial information, so have that info with you. It'll take a while for the attorney appointment to be granted, and more time for the attorney to contact you, so spend that time trying to connect with the social worker. Be prepared to take all your documentation (UA results, etc.) to the social worker whenever they're available. This will take lots of time and energy, so clear your calendar and arrange whatever support you will need from family and friends. Think of all the resources you can use to reassure the social worker that you're clean and that your child will be safe. Be prepared to negotiate a safety plan with the social worker, if necessary. If that doesn't work, prepare to go to court with your court-appointed attorney.