Juvenile Dependency

If CPS is investigating you or has filed a dependency petition involving your child, you may be wondering whether you really need to hire an attorney. The court will appoint one if you cannot afford one — so is it worth seeking your own legal counsel? In almost every case, the answer is an emphatic…

When CPS shows up at your door, the fear and confusion can lead to decisions that seriously damage your case. After representing parents in juvenile dependency cases throughout Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado, and Amador Counties, attorney Taryn M. Scharf has seen the same mistakes come up again and again. Here are five of the most…

When a grandchild is taken into CPS custody, grandparents often feel powerless. But California law actually gives grandparents significant rights in juvenile dependency cases — including placement preference, the right to participate in court proceedings, and pathways to guardianship. Understanding these rights can help you play an active role in keeping your grandchild safe and…

When a child is removed from a parent’s custody in a juvenile dependency case, California law sets strict timelines for reunification. These deadlines are not flexible — if you miss them, the court will shift its focus from reunification to finding a permanent alternative home for your child. Understanding these timelines is essential to getting…

The Section 366.26 hearing — often called the “.26 hearing” — is the most serious hearing in a California juvenile dependency case. It is the point at which the court determines a permanent plan for your child, and one of those options is the termination of your parental rights. If you are facing a .26…

If your child has been removed by CPS, the detention hearing is your first opportunity to appear before a judge and fight to bring your child home. It is the most time-sensitive hearing in the juvenile dependency process, and what happens here sets the tone for your entire case. When Does the Detention Hearing Happen?…

One of the most common and urgent questions parents ask is: “Can CPS really take my child without a court order?” The short answer is yes, but only under very specific circumstances. Understanding when the government can and cannot remove a child from your home is essential to protecting your family’s rights. The General Rule:…

If you are involved in a juvenile dependency case in California, you will almost certainly be required to complete a case plan. The case plan is the roadmap the county creates for reunification — it lists the services, classes, and actions you must complete before the court will consider returning your child. Understanding your case…

When CPS files a petition alleging child abuse or neglect, the case enters the juvenile dependency court system. California’s juvenile dependency process involves a series of hearings, each with its own purpose, timeline, and legal standards. Understanding what happens at each hearing is essential for any parent navigating this system. This guide walks through every…

Receiving a visit from a Child Protective Services (CPS) social worker is one of the most frightening experiences a parent can face. Many parents assume they must cooperate with every demand, but California law and the United States Constitution guarantee you specific rights throughout any CPS investigation. Understanding those rights is the first step toward…