You Are Not Alone: A Guide for Parents Written by Parents Who Have Children in Foster Care

What are my rights?

First Steps | You Have the Right to:

  • FOLLOW THE COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
    If you feel that any DCF staff person is not respectful or is in any way being unfair, you have the right to notify the organization.

  • REGULAR AND FREQUENT CONTACT

    • It is your job to get in touch with the worker to schedule contact

    • DCF may limit contact if it is considered harmful to your child

  • RELATIVES OR CLOSE FRIENDS (KINSHIP CARE)
    DCF prioritizes kinship care. Let DCF know immediately if you know someone safe to care for your child during this process.

  • YOUR LAWYER IS YOUR GUIDE
    Your lawyer is your voice in the court system. You can hire a private lawyer or the court will appoint one for you.

  • IMMEDIATELY ASK FOR AN INTERPRETER
    DCF and the court system are required to provide an interpreter upon request.

  • ASK FOR AN ADVOCATE/FAMILY PARTNER
    You have the right to bring professional support, friends, or family members to all meetings related to your case.

  • TALK TO YOUR LAWYER BEFORE SIGNING
    DCF can get a court order to gain access to any information in your case.

  • TALK TO YOUR LAWYER ABOUT WHAT TO SAY
    Your lawyer may advise you not to answer some questions. Interviewers will note that you refused to answer in reports.

  • YOU CAN CHANGE GOALS
    Once signed, the action plan must be followed.

  • YOU HAVE RIGHTS
    You have a right to know why your child was removed and the results of any meetings in your case.

  • FOLLOW THE FAIR HEARING PROCESS
    You can request DCF to change any decision you feel is unfair.