Helping Parents With Department of Child Services Matters
Anyone can pick up the phone and report to the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) that they suspect you of child abuse or neglect. Even if you know the allegations are false, you still face serious consequences, including the possible removal of your children, and need to defend yourself.
It’s important to contact a family law lawyer before your initial DCS meeting, if possible.
At Schembs Law, we bring a unique perspective to these cases. Attorney Robert Schembs previously served as Assistant Chief Counsel for Marion County DCS, giving him firsthand insight into how these cases are evaluated, investigated, and pursued. That experience allows us to anticipate DCS strategies, identify weaknesses in their case, and advocate effectively on your behalf. We represent parents in Indianapolis and throughout Indiana in DCS investigations and CHINS proceedings.
Why Is This Happening?
Teachers, coaches, and other professionals are required to report to the Department of Child Services (DCS) if they have reason to believe a child may be experiencing abuse or neglect. While some individuals are required to report even suspicions, that does not mean every report is accurate.
Once a report is made, however, an investigation begins – and it quickly becomes your problem. These situations can have serious consequences for your relationship with your children or employment. It is critical to have an experienced attorney guide you through the process and protect your rights.
In some cases, the report may come from the child. Whether the concern is legitimate or the result of anger, confusion, or outside influence, it must be taken seriously and addressed appropriately.
Allegations of abuse that arise during a divorce or custody dispute should be examined especially carefully. In some cases, accusations are used as leverage in custody battles. Without proper representation, you risk losing parenting time – or, in extreme cases, losing contact with your children altogether.”
CHINS Cases: What You Need To Know
A CHINS case (Child in Need of Services) is filed when the Department of Child Services (DCS) believes a child’s physical or mental condition is seriously endangered due to a parent’s actions – or failure to act. While these cases are filed in the name of protecting the child, they can quickly lead to court involvement, strict requirements, and even removal of the child from the home.
Once a CHINS case is opened, the court can order parents to participate in services such as drug testing, counseling, parenting classes, or supervised visitation. These requirements can be demanding, time-consuming, and, at times, unnecessary depending on the circumstances. It is important to understand that what you say and do early in the case can have a lasting impact on how the court views you.
You do not have to navigate this process alone. Having an attorney involved from the beginning can help ensure your rights are protected, that expectations are clearly defined, and that you are not agreeing to conditions that are not appropriate for your situation.
CHINS cases can also overlap with custody disputes or other family law matters. How you handle a CHINS case can directly affect your parenting time and your long-term relationship with your child. Our firm works to protect that relationship while guiding you through each stage of the process with clarity and purpose.
Contact Us Now
Schedule your initial consultation to speak with an experienced Indiana DCS attorney today. Call 317-643-6266 or contact us via our online form to schedule an appointment at our Indianapolis office.