Michigan Order Following Emergency Removal Hearing - Child Protective Proceedings

Q: Do parents have the right to refuse entry to an investigator? A: Yes. But refusing entry to CPS will not end the investigation. If CPS has information that a child may be in danger, they have the authority to go to court to ask for a court ordersimilar to a search warrantrequiring you to allow them access.

CPS has 30 days to complete an investigation unless extenuating circumstances require an extension. A CPS investigation must begin within 24 hours and usually includes: Face-to-face interviews with the alleged child victim(s), the child's caretaker(s), the alleged perpetrator(s).

How Long Does the Investigation Take. In most instances, Child Protective Services has approximately 45 days to investigate reports of neglect, dependency and abuse. If the investigation takes longer than 45 days the agency must promptly notify the family about the extension.

After the investigation is finished, DCF will decide if the original report of abuse is "supported" or "not supported." If DCF says the report is "not supported," this means the DCF worker did not find any evidence that your child was abused or neglected. DCF will close your case.

Call Michigan Children's Protective Services (CPS) at 1-855-444-3911 any time, day or night.

If the Judge or jury decides that the claims are unsubstantiated, your child will be returned to you (assuming they'd been removed by CPS), your name will be removed from the Central Registry, and the petition against you will be dismissed.

Anyone, including a child, who suspects child abuse or neglect, can make a report by calling 855-444-3911. In addition, the Child Protection Law requires certain professionals to report suspected child abuse or neglect. Review the Mandated Reporters section of our website for more details.

Typically, children who have been removed from their home are put in the care of a relative or appropriate guardian, or foster care. Within two days of the removal, the court holds a detention hearing to determine if the child should be returned to the parent or remain in an alternate location.

The CPS worker might want to speak to your child. She might want to have a look at your child's bedroom, toys, homework and would look for sanitary procedures and whether food is available readily for your child. There are certain things which one should keep in mind to have the CPS report in your favor.