We live in a society that sadly, necessitates CPS. However, that doesn’t mean that a parent who wants a second opinion is a monster. And neither is a parent who lets their children walk to school alone. But, today in our “hyper-vigilant age, there are more parents being reported to CPS than ever before.” 1

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So, since more parents are experiencing a visit from CPS than ever before and since often times those visits have resulted in the quick removal of children, despite no grounds to allegations of harm or abuse, it is of CRITICAL importance that parents know their rights and know how to respond to a CPS visit.

It CAN happen to you and it is serious. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faxz85nGH4o

The biggest mistakes parents make with CPS are usually within the first meeting. Therefore, if you understand how to handle the very first encounter with CPS, you can increase your chances of maintaining your family’s rights and freedom.

Remember, CPS often seeks to take a family by surprise. ALWAYS BE READY.

The following is a list from Journey Boost2:

1. THE KEY: Be polite & SAY AS LITTLE AS POSSIBLE. You might be terrified inside. You might be absolutely angry if you feel there is injustice going on, but the number one thing you can do is stay calm and be polite. Anything you say can be twisted. Do NOT DEFEND YOURSELF. Do NOT volunteer information.

2. Do NOT let them in your house. Be nice but STAY FIRM. Have one statement ready and repeat it over and over “I know you are just doing your job, but my main obligation is to my children and to help them avoid unnecessary trauma.” If they do not have a warrant and there is no obvious emergency, they are not allowed access to your home. If a police officer is with them, they all know it is illegal to enter a home unless you CONSENT, or unless they have a warrant, or can hear an emergency situation going on. DO NOT CONSENT. 

3. Ask permission to ask THEM questions. “I realize you are just doing your job. Would it be ok if I asked you a couple of questions?” Then, ask if you can record the conversation. If you need to get your cell phone, close the door and say, “I need to get something.” These are the questions to ask them:

  • “Firstly, do you have some identification? After you get their ID, write down their name, then ask, “Can you give me the name and phone number of your supervisor?” Write it all down. Take your time.
  • Next “What are the exact allegations that have been made against me? Federal law requires that I should be informed of any allegations against me.”
  • Ask them if they have a warrant. Be direct. “Do you have a warrant to search my home or speak to my children?” If they produce a warrant make sure it is signed by a judge and dated.

Without a warrant they must gain your consent to enter your home or speak to your children. They are doing their job. Their supervisor has instructed them to make this visit and they will use whatever tactic they feel will be effective to GET MORE INFORMATION AGAINST YOU. They may alternate between: trying to be nice, being firm, threatening or trying to bargain with you. Stay immune to every tactic. Be Nice, but know your rights. Do not get caught up in their games. Don’t engage them in any discussion, except on the questions above.

4. Tell them you are going to contact your attorney and when you get them on the phone, you will allow them to speak to your attorney. Close the door. Phone your attorney so the attorney can speak to the CPS case worker and help them to leave. Your attorney will know the law and remind the case worker of your rights. It is always a good idea to have an advocate on your side.

If you homeschool your children and you are a Christian it would benefit you to either have an attorney or join Heritage Defense or Home School Legal Defense Association (they will defend you against allegations by social services as they pertain to homeschooling). While neither organization is free, they are available for immediate telephone help should you find someone knocking at your door.

Please make sure to share this story with your friends. Medical kidnapping is on the rise and more and more we see our government attempting to take away our rights to care for and educate our children. We do not need to live in fear but we do need to know our rights.

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Sources and References

  1. Journey Boost, May 2015.
  2. Journey Boost, May 2015.