Department Of Social Services Child Removal Cases
Being accused of abusing or neglecting your child or children can be heartbreaking, overwhelming and just plain scary. Sometimes, allegations of abuse or neglect are completely unfounded, brought about by people who are vengeful or judgmental. At other times, parents may need a little help and support in getting their home, parenting or family situation to best meet the needs of their children.
Parents who have been accused of abuse or neglect deserve the assistance and support of a knowledgeable South Carolina family law attorney. At The Law Offices of R.F. Johnson Jr., Mr. Johnson has helped parents facing allegations of child abuse and neglect to protect their rights to parent their children and to keep their families together, and he may be able to help you, too.
What Attorneys Do In DSS Child Removal Cases
In cases where children are moved from the home of their parents, the Department of Social Services will be represented in court by an attorney. Parents also have the right to be represented by counsel. Retaining an experienced attorney is the best way to get the support and legal advice that you need.
Mr. Johnson can help you understand the process that DSS child removal cases follow, the allegations that have been brought against you, what is expected of you, who the various people are that you will meet over the course of your case and what each of them can do for you. More importantly, he can help you understand the options that are available to you every step of the way so that you can make choices and take actions that are likely to help your family stay together.
Family Placements May Be Available
If your child is removed from your home for any length of time, it is best for both you and them that they remain in the care of people who can meet their current needs. Your attorney can help you advocate for a family placement in the event that your child or children must leave your home.
Creating A Safety Plan
As part of your case, you and your attorney will work with DSS to create a safety plan with action items that will help you address the concerns that DSS has regarding the care and well-being of your children. Your attorney can help you to negotiate a plan that you are likely to be successful with, because accomplishing the goals set forth in your safety plan is the way to get your child back into your home.
Complying With Court Orders
In addition to doing what is required of you by your safety plan, the court may also make orders that require you to do certain things like paying child support or attending visitation. Your attorney can help you in court to ensure that any orders that the judge issues are things that you will be able to comply with.
Contact The Firm Immediately
If you are facing a challenging family law matter involving DSS and your children, The Law Offices of R.F. Johnson Jr. can help you to work to resolve the issue. To learn more about how attorney Ronald Johnson can help you, call his West Columbia office today at 803-462-4427 to schedule your free consultation.