Does the worker have to contact the non-custodial parent?
In all family assessments and investigations the worker should make reasonable efforts to notify and interview the non-custodial parent. The non-custodial parent has the right to know what is happening with their child(ren). The non-custodial parent may have pertinent information regarding the allegations. The non-custodial parent may be able to offer protection should the child be assessed as being unsafe. The non-custodial parent may be able to offer additional support to the child and family. The non-custodial parent may participate in a Family Partnership Meeting.

There will be times that contacting the non-custodial parent would not be in the best interest of the child or family and could be detrimental.

Review more information about Child Protective Services.

Show All Answers

1. What age can a child be left alone?
2. What is the definition of child abuse and neglect?
3. Are mandated reporters required to report suspicions of abuse or neglect within their family or outside of their work place?
4. What happens when a new report is received on an open referral?
5. What constitutes exercising reasonable diligence to locate a child or family named in a CPS report?
6. What constitutes the first meaningful contact?
7. Does the worker have to contact the non-custodial parent?
8. What information can be released in a founded investigation when there is an on-going investigation but no charges have been filed?
9. What is the difference between information in OASIS and the Central Registry?
10. What is the timeframe for someone to request an appeal for a founded investigation?
11. Does a report of a child not being in a car seat or properly restrained in a car meet a definition of child abuse or neglect?
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