|
|
|
DOS
AND DON'TS
|
DO . . .
- put your children first
- contact an experienced attorney the moment DCF gets in touch with you
- realize that an interview by DCF could lead to criminal charges and/or removal of your children
- defer to your attorney's expertise
- file for a fair hearing within 30 days of the date of the DCF letter supporting the 51A
- follow your service plan
- keep a detailed calendar of all appointments, dates, phone calls, court hearings, foster care review meetings, and any and all DCF involvement
- ask the social worker for the names and telephone numbers of his or her supervisor, Area Program Manager, and Area Director
DON'T . . .
- go it alone
- talk to DCF without first speaking to your attorney
- be intimidated by the social worker who asks, "Why did you get an attorney . . . ?" leaving the rest of the question, ". . . if you didn't do anything wrong?" unspoken.
- sign ANYTHING – releases, consent forms, waivers, service plans, etc. – until your attorney has reviewed them
- answer DCF questions that haven't been asked
- be afraid to ask your attorney any questions
- ever give up - DCF involvement can be very stressful
|
|
