Parents Matter in a Child’s Life
Parental relationships help form our world view. They are among the most important relationships we will ever have. Our parents are our first, and sometimes our most powerful, role models. They love their children. And all parents — even the best of them — have times when they struggle with parenting.
Unfortunately, most legal systems are focused on punitive measures rather than helping struggling parents find the support they need. Until that changes, we will continue to have families that struggle. In that struggle, here are some things that you may want to know about child neglect and determining when it is time to contact a Tulsa child neglect attorney.
When a parent is struggling with finances or health or an addiction, his or her focus gravitates toward that subject, sometimes to the detriment of the child. It can feel as though an accusation of child neglect comes out of left field in those circumstances. But this can be a nightmare for an already overburdened parent.
Imagine that you are a single parent and work two jobs. Your 10-year-old son is usually watched by your mom after school until you get home from work. You can’t afford day care. Then one day your mom is injured and unable to care for your son for a week while she is in the hospital. Your son promises to come straight home from school during that week, but one afternoon he and some his friends stop at the local convenience store and decide to steal some candy.
They get caught and you get a call not only from the police but also from Child Protective Services. They want to interview you and your son, and a complaint for neglect is lodged.
This is often how this starts. Sometimes the allegations are grounded in fact, sometimes not. It is frightening to have someone challenge your parental actions. We fear that our children will be taken away and deposited into an overburdened foster care system until we can get everything straightened out.
If Child Protective Services comes knocking on your door, it is important that you stay calm. This is the time to call an experienced and compassionate Tulsa child neglect attorney. You should know your duties and your rights in this situation, and your attorney can explain both to you.
What To Do When Child Protective Services Investigates
It can be tempting to get defensive and try to explain your situation away when the police and Child Protective Services visit. This is an emotionally stressful experience for all parents. Try to remember that it is also a scary time for your children. Reassure them that everything will be fine, then call an experienced Tulsa child neglect attorney as soon as possible.
Stay as calm as you can. You must follow any direct orders given to you by the police. It is also important that you do not impede the investigation in any way. This can happen when a parent becomes defensive. Your attorney can help you know what to say and what not to say, and can help make sure that Child Protective Services and police do not overstep the bounds of their authority.
It is best to have your experienced Tulsa child neglect attorney by your side every step of the way.
Case workers want to help, but they often have huge caseloads and little time. Sometimes, they make mistakes. A child care worker with a large caseload and little time may decide to err on the side of caution by taking the child into protective custody rather than releasing that child to a parent who may harm the child. It is not a perfect system.
If your child ends up in foster care based on scant and unpersuasive evidence, you may need to have a child neglect attorney help you gain access to your child again.
Your Tulsa child neglect attorney will answer your questions, and can help investigate the matter fully. Your attorney can be there in court with you when it counts. Don’t try to go this one alone. Your presence matters to your children. Get the help you need.
Initial Consultation With a Tulsa Child Neglect Attorney
Bring your questions and concerns and let’s work together to help you and your child. Call the Divorce of Tulsa Law Office today for a initial consultation at (918) 924-5526.