Q: how do i get cps to help me get custody of my kids who are being abused and neglected by their father? I live in MI
My kids are 14 girl, 10 boy, and 8girl. My 14 year old has accused her dad multiple times of sexually abusing her. She has been in at least 10 mental hospitals in 15 months. My other 2 kids are being neglected. They are dirty and smelly. They are solely responsible for all of the cleaning in the house. Thank you for your help.
A:
CPS is an investigative agency; they are not responsible for making custody determinations - that's up to a judge. Much like the police, CPS starts an investigation based usually on a call. You can make that call; but you also should realize that there are a host of "mandated reporters" - people who by their profession are legally obligated to call CPS if they suspect abuse or neglect. Teachers are the most common reporters children encounter.
Before you call, realize that there are at least three sides to every custody situation. If child abuse or neglect is present with the father, it absolutely should be reported to CPS. But then, based on their investigation, it will end up in court before a judge who will make a custody determination. The reason you don't, presumably, based on the wording of your question, have custody of the children will be a factor. Child custody matters are not "either / or" scenarios. There could be an outcome where neither you or the father have custody of the children.
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