At our law firm, we’ve forged a stellar reputation rooted in unwavering courtroom prowess and tireless advocacy. These qualities have consistently delivered exceptional outcomes for our clients. With an impressive track record spanning over hundreds of Dependency cases, you can place your trust in our seasoned team of Dependency/CPS defense attorneys, whose commitment to your cause is unwavering.

Our overarching mission remains unwavering: to fiercely protect your family’s rights and your legal entitlement to full custody of your child. However, our strategies adapt to the gravity of the allegations facing parents. It’s crucial that the dependency attorney by your side possesses not only a deep understanding of legal intricacies but also a wholehearted dedication to championing your case.

In the state of California, a dependency case materializes when a parent or legal guardian faces government allegations of child abuse or neglect. Typically, these charges emerge after an individual witnesses what they perceive as child maltreatment and subsequently notifies a government agency. Once alerted, the Social Services Agency conducts a comprehensive investigation, determining whether a child necessitates removal from their home, thereby rendering them subject to court dependency.

Upon the government’s decision to initiate a dependency case or invoke Welfare and Institutions Code 300, a crucial hearing known as the Detention Hearing (or Initial Hearing) is slated for scheduling. Should your child be removed from your residence, the Detention Hearing must be convened within 48 hours from the date of extraction, excluding non-court days.

Pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code 300, a child may be designated as court-dependent due to various circumstances, which include but are not confined to:

• Exposure to severe physical harm, whether intentional or accidental
• Endangered by neglect, often stemming from inadequate supervision, substance addiction, mental health concerns, substandard medical care, and the like
• Subjected to emotional abuse or at risk of suffering it
• Victim of sexual abuse or at risk of being victimized
• Deprived of suitable provisions for support and care

During the pendency of dependency proceedings, the temporary placement of your child hinges on what the court deems optimal for the child’s well-being. Depending on the gravity of allegations against the parent/guardian, this could entail placement in foster care while the legal process unfolds. It’s imperative to note that the Social Services Agency is obligated to assess and the court must deliberate on whether placing the child with a close family member is viable. In such instances, we adeptly guide you through the reunification process, expediting your child’s return to your care.

Alternately, your child might be permitted to reside with you as the parent or guardian, albeit under the watchful oversight of Social Services.

Central to our defense attorney team’s mission in each of our dependency cases is the preservation of the family unit whenever possible.