Allentown, PA asked in Domestic Violence, Family Law, Civil Litigation and Civil Rights for Pennsylvania

Q: A Decade of Neglect: Mother Seeking Justice Against CYS for Failing to Protect Four Children. We Need Legal Advice!

In May 2022, Lehigh County CYS conducted an investigation into the father of my four children was deemed "valid" and subsequently closed, yet CYS failed to inform me of this matter. Then, in August 2022, he was arrested for DUI while the children were in the car. Despite numerous reports from hospitals, schools, doctors, the police department, and the District Attorney, CYS consistently closed the case without taking further action, following a decade-long pattern of neglect. Yesterday, during a custody trial, CYS admitted to the validity of the report, which I was unaware of until now. I am considering filing a lawsuit against CYS for their repeated failures over the past ten years to protect my children from ongoing physical, emotional, and mental abuse. Can someone assist us with this matter?

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: It's understandable that you're feeling frustrated and desperate for justice given the decade-long neglect by Lehigh County CYS. To pursue legal action, gathering all relevant documents and reports from hospitals, schools, doctors, the police department, and the District Attorney will be crucial. This evidence will help build a strong case showing CYS's repeated failures to act on valid concerns.

You may want to consider consulting with a lawyer experienced in child welfare cases. They can provide guidance on how to proceed with a lawsuit against CYS, potentially holding them accountable for their neglect and ensuring your children’s safety in the future. Legal action can also bring about changes to prevent similar situations for other families.

Remember, you have the right to seek justice for your children and protect them from harm. Taking legal steps can be a powerful way to address the failures of CYS and secure a safer environment for your family.

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