Protecting Children And Families During Washington CPS Investigations
Last updated on March 10, 2025
When you are contacted by Child Protective Services (CPS), Washington State’s Department of Child, Youth, and Family Services (DCYF), it can feel overwhelming and frightening. You deserve support and legal guidance from a lawyer who knows this system and how to protect your connection with your child.
At Muth Atwood, PLLC, our attorneys have years of experience helping clients navigate these difficult situations. We have worked in CPS investigations statewide, and have the experience necessary to protect parents’ rights and reunite families. Reach out online or call 866-235-0030 to discuss your case with a member of our team.
What To Expect From A CPS Investigation In The Seattle Area
CPS must initiate an investigation whenever they receive a report that a child is being abused, neglected or otherwise mistreated. They will need to “lay eyes on” the children involved and assess for immediate safety within either 24 or 72 hours, depending on whether the case is an “emergent” or “nonemergent” response. CPS can meet with your children without your presence or permission.
The other steps involved in a standard CPS investigation include a home walkthrough of the home(s) where the children live and an interview with each parental figure who cares for the children. In some situations, the involvement of CPS can include law enforcement and can escalate very quickly. If there is an assessment that children are in present danger, there is legal authority to remove the children from the parents’ care. CPS can also put a safety plan into place while their investigation is ongoing, meaning that they can place limits on your ability to see your child.
Once the investigation is complete, CPS will issue findings of “founded” or “unfounded” for child abuse and neglect, or any other basis for the investigation. If you hold certain licensures, such as a medical license or teaching certificate, a “founded” finding may impact that credential.
When CPS Knocks, You Need To Act Quickly
It’s important to seek legal advice right away if you are contacted by CPS. CPS has a lot of discretion in its decision-making. Depending on the facts of your case, it may be in your best interest to fully cooperate, or if you are under criminal investigation, consider not cooperating at all. The law requires CPS investigations to move quickly, and it is important to have a plan in place quickly if they contact you.
Our office provides full representation in CPS investigations. This includes any related matters, such as criminal investigations or charges and protection orders that the other parent may seek on behalf of your children at the direction of CPS.
Please be aware that, to avoid conflicts, we can only represent one parent in situations where both parents or guardians are under investigation. In those cases, if needed, we can arrange for another attorney to represent the parent or guardian we do not represent.
CPS Removal Can Have A Profound Impact On Children
When Child Protective Services (CPS) takes children out of their homes, it can deeply affect their emotional and mental health. Removing children from their families, even to keep them safe from harm or neglect, can make them feel very anxious, insecure and confused. They might feel abandoned and start to doubt their own value and identity. They may also have trouble making strong emotional connections, challenges in school and a higher risk of mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
This major disruption in their family relationships and sudden change in where they live can be very traumatic. This trauma may lead to long-term emotional and behavioral problems, including issues that could lead to criminal charges for the child.
5 Common Questions About CPS Removals
There are many misunderstandings about CPS removals, and parents often have questions about this serious situation. Our team is prepared to provide you with answers and guidance as you face this legal challenge.
Who is a mandatory reporter?
A mandatory reporter is someone who must report any signs of child abuse or neglect by law. Failure to report suspected abuse or neglect can result in legal consequences for the mandatory reporter.
These people often have jobs that involve daily interactions with children, like teachers, doctors, nurses, social workers and police officers. For example, a police officer may report concerns that arise while investigating a sex offense involving a young person.
Can I say no to a CPS home visit?
You can refuse a Child Protective Services (CPS) home visit, but if CPS thinks a child might be in danger, they can get a court order to enter your home. Working with CPS can sometimes resolve things faster and better. If you are worried about a home visit, it might be good to talk to a lawyer who can advise you based on your situation.
What happens to my other children if they come for an investigation on just one child?
If CPS investigates one child, they will check on the safety of all children in your home. CPS wants to keep all children safe. Depending on what they find, they might also check on or monitor your other children. Every case is different, so what happens next can change based on the details of the case and the investigation.
What do I do if I need to report an ex or my spouse for a CPS investigation?
If you need to report your ex or spouse for a CPS investigation, contact your local CPS office or use any state hotlines for reporting child abuse and neglect. Give as much detail as you can so the authorities can understand and handle the situation properly. If a child is in immediate danger, calling the police is also a good step.
How long will it take to regain custody of my kids if CPS removes them from the home?
Getting your children back can take a different amount of time based on your case, why they were removed, and the laws where you live. CPS usually tries to bring families back together. This might involve completing court-ordered tasks like parenting classes or counseling. There are regular checks to see how things are going, and you might get custody back when it is safe for the kids. Having a lawyer can help you through this process and look out for your best interests.
Get Your Life Back With Help From Muth Atwood, PLLC
CPS investigations can throw your life into turmoil, but you do not have to navigate the system and protect your family on your own. Call 866-235-0030 or contact our firm via email to schedule a consultation with our experienced legal team.