Department of Children, Youth & Families (2024)

FAQs

What questions are asked at the CPS interview for parents? ›

--Investigations shall be completed in accordance with the following: (1) Investigations to determine whether to accept the family for service and whether a report is founded, indicated or unfounded shall be completed within 60 days in all cases.

What happens when a report is made? The county children and youth agency must begin an investigation within 24 hours. A thorough inquiry is conducted to determine if the child was abused and what services are appropriate for the child and family.

Generally, no you do not have to let CPS into your home. If they are accompanied by law enforcement and have a warrant, or permission to take the child, then generally you cannot stop them under those circ*mstances.

Conversations with CPS workers are NOT confidential, so be very careful about what you disclose. It's best to consult with an attorney before any conversations with CPS workers. Also, remember that you have the right to refuse to answer questions, and may remain silent.

The main subject areas that are focused on during a child-interview are: What happened during the alleged abuse or neglect incident (or incidents)? whether the child feels safe in their home right now. whether the child believes that future abuse or neglect will occur.

Usually the identity of the person who filed the report remains confidential. Typically CPS and/or police do not share information with anybody about the progress of an investigation – even with a protective parent.

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services oversees the Office of Children, Youth and Families (CYS). Underneath these state-level agencies are county-based children and youth services office, also known as Child Protective Services (CPS).

You have a right to be told when there are court dates concerning you, your child and your family. You also have a right to tell what happened at the court dates. You have the right to have a lawyer to represent you in court.

Depending upon the allegations made, CPS will initiate an investigation into the allegations by visiting your home immediately or up to ten days after CPS receives the allegations.

What does CPS look for in PA? ›

Many people wonder, “What does CPS look for in a home visit?” The major factors are making sure the home is a safe place for the child. For example, they look at the quality of the sleeping conditions, how much food is available, and if the child has enough clothing to determine if there's any sign of neglect.

There's no specified age because children are not necessarily entitled to private rooms under Pennsylvania law.

CPS workers will look for signs of infestation like droppings, nests, or the pests themselves. Guns and Other Weapons – If weapons are present in the home, CPS workers will check to ensure they are stored securely and out of a child's reach.

They may do this when they first come to your home, or they may go to your child(ren)'s school. You can refuse to let your child(ren) be interviewed by CPS, but CPS may decide to start a case against you in court so they can get a court order that lets them talk to your child without your permission.

the Child Protective Services Law (CPSL) and its implementing code do not permit compelled drug testing of parents during civil child welfare investigations.

Safeguarding Interview Questions You Could Be Asked

What would you do if you were concerned about a colleague's behaviour towards children? What would you do if you were concerned about a child's behaviour? Can you spot the signs that a child is suffering from a type of abuse, neglect or harm? What are these signs?

At your own home, CPS workers cannot interview your child without your consent, but they may be able to do so at your child's school. CPS workers are not restricted in what questions they can ask, but your child is not required to answer their questions.