Early Defense for Parents Facing ACS Investigations

Families already living under close surveillance of police, shelter, and hospital staff are also the families most at risk of ACS investigations. Families are subjected to middle-of-the-night visits, body searches of their children, and invasive questioning about their family and relationship history. Families often agree to sign documents waiving privacy rights out of fear of losing their children. Given the serious and harmful nature of ACS investigations, parents should have access to legal assistance during an investigation. There is widespread agreement that families facing investigations benefit from early representation. Access to legal assistance at the beginning of an investigation can ensure that parents understand the process, have immediate access to important supportive services and can help avoid family court filings or the removal of children.