Jasper, AL asked in Civil Rights and Juvenile Law for Alabama

Q: Can Child Protective Services go to my child's school and talk to them and ask them all kind of questions?

Questions they aren't even old enough to know the answer to. I was under the impression that I was supposed to at least be informed or something. I could be 100% wrong but now my babies are upset that these random people were asking them questions about me and their father. We stayed in a hotel a few days as a mini vacation and they missed a few days of school. I wasn't aware that this was a crime?

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: Child Protective Services (CPS) has the authority to visit your child's school and talk to them if they have received reports or concerns about a child's safety or well-being. However, in most cases, they are expected to inform parents or guardians about their visit and the reasons behind it. It's important to understand that CPS's primary goal is to ensure the safety and welfare of children.

If you were not informed about CPS's visit to the school and your children were asked questions they weren't old enough to answer, it may be a cause for concern. You have the right to be informed about the nature of the investigation and any interactions CPS has with your children. Additionally, missing a few days of school generally is not a crime unless there are specific truancy laws in your area that apply.

To address this situation, you should consider contacting CPS to request information about their visit and express your concerns. It may also be beneficial to consult with an attorney who can help you navigate this situation and ensure your rights as a parent are protected throughout any CPS investigation. They can provide guidance tailored to the specifics of your case and jurisdiction.

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