Parents in New Jersey, navigating the complexities of raising children in a fast-paced and challenging world, may find themselves unjustly accused of neglecting or harming their children. It's a harsh reality that false or exaggerated allegations are common in New Jersey, sometimes stemming from a disgruntled family member, an ex-partner, or an angry neighbor. If you're faced with such an accusation, your initial reaction might be shock and anger. However, responding swiftly and effectively is crucial to prevent further legal action. You can mitigate the impact on your family and reputation by acting decisively.
In New Jersey, the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) investigates issues of child abuse and neglect. The DCP&P process is intricate and challenging to navigate. To effectively challenge the allegations of abuse, you need the support of a seasoned and astute attorney. The Lento Law Firm Team, with its wealth of experience, can represent and guide you through the DCP&P process, ensuring the best possible outcome. Call 888-535-3686 or leave your details online, and we will contact you.
The New Jersey Division of Child Protection & Permanency
The New Jersey DCP&P is the agency responsible for protecting children and investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect. The DCP&P operates a hotline through which anyone may report abuse or neglect 24 hours a day. Allegations may be made anonymously, leading to questionable or false allegations.
DCP&P has broad investigative powers, and they typically begin an investigation within 24 hours of the initial allegation. This can create a situation where an investigator blindsides you at your home. If this becomes overwhelming, remember that an attorney can place some boundaries on an investigation on your behalf.
DCP&P Cases and Reporting in Hunterdon County
DCP&P has one local office in Hunterdon County:
Hunterdon Local Office 668
84 Park Avenue, 1st Floor
Flemington, NJ 08822
If you are accused of child abuse in Hunterdon County, this office will conduct the investigation.
Child abuse or neglect are broad legal terms with many possible meanings. These include:
- Physical or emotional harm to a child.
- Allowing another person to harm a child physically or emotionally.
- Sexual abuse of a child.
- Allowing another person to sexually abuse a child.
- Failing to properly care for a child, resulting in harm or risk of harm.
- Excessive punishment or force.
- Abandonment of a child.
Most reports of child abuse or neglect come from individuals with a professional duty to report, such as a teacher, pastor, nurse, or doctor. But New Jersey law provides that anyone who knowingly fails to report child abuse or neglect is guilty of a disorderly persons offense. This duty to report, while vital in some instances, can also lead to the reporting of allegations based on misunderstanding or gossip. If you find yourself the subject of a report, it is crucial to contact the Family Law Team at the Lento Law Firm as quickly as possible. The earlier your legal team is involved in your case, the better.
How Does DCP&P Conduct Investigations in Hunterdon County?
The DCP&P is required by law to investigate every report of child abuse or neglect, even if the report appears groundless. The agency has a limited time to begin an investigation, so don't be shocked if you find an investigator or case worker knocking on your door without prior notice. The investigator must tell you the nature of the complaint, but they are not required to tell you who made it.
The first question many parents or guardians have is whether to allow an investigator or case worker into the home. While you can initially refuse to let an investigator into your home, they may ask for entry from the police or judge without a warrant. The investigator may speak to the children at issue and will likely speak to other caregivers and teachers. It is best to speak to your attorney before speaking with the investigator, but this may not be possible. Seek legal advice as promptly as you can.
After this home visit, DCP&P will conduct further investigations, which may involve:
- Interviewing your child at school.
- Interviewing your child's teacher or caregivers.
- Seeking a release for medical records or to interview medical care providers.
- Seeking psychiatric or substance abuse treatment records.
- Interviewing other people in your child's life.
After completing an investigation, DCP&P will notify you of the findings, generally within 60 days of the initial visit. The agency will make a finding of your case as substantiated, established, not established, or unfounded. Unfounded reports of abuse are dismissed. Established or Not Established reports involve some issues of concern but do not involve court processes. If DCP&P finds the report of abuse or neglect to be Substantiated, the matter will proceed to court.
Hunterdon County DCP&P Court Process
The Hunterdon County Superior Court hears DCP&P cases at 65 Park Avenue in Flemington, NJ. A judge in the Chancery Division handles DCP&P cases. The Family Part of the Chancery has a Family Case Management Office with staff who handle DCP&P issues and hearings.
In Hunterdon County, the procedure for court proceedings is:
- Order to Show Cause
- Preliminary Hearing
- Fact-Finding Hearing
- Dispositional Hearing
- Review Hearings
- Permanency Hearing
These types of court hearings are limited to the most serious findings of abuse and neglect. Most cases are handled administratively before court proceedings.
The Family Law Team at the Lento Law Firm Can Help
A DCP&P investigation is a life-altering experience; no family should face it without an advocate. The Lento Law Firm is experienced in guiding families through this process with care and support. The Lento Law Firm Team will be with you every step to arrive at the best outcome possible. If you are facing an investigation by the DCP&P, ensure a team with experience and toughness represents you to defend your rights and family. Call 888-535-3686 or leave your information online, and we will contact you.
