Working with Your Attorney

  • If you don’t have money for a lawyer, the court will give you one for free. The lawyer comes from a group called CPCS. They help parents and kids in special court cases. These lawyers know how to help and get paid by the government to do this work.

  • Your lawyer will:

    • Help you in court

    • Help you work with DCF

    • Tell you about your rights and what to do next

    • Assist with finding help and services you need

    • Explain what a Care and Protection case is and what will happen

    • Give advice about making agreements in your case

  • Your lawyer will make sure that DCF and the judge understand your needs and hear your side of the story. They will take important steps to help tell your story and make sure your voice is part of the case. Your lawyer might:

    • Find out facts and talk to people

    • Show papers or pictures in court

    • Ask questions to people who come to court

    • Write important letters for the court

    • Ask questions to DCF’s witnesses

    • Set up meetings with DCF

  • Your lawyer can ask the court to pay for an expert to help with your case. An expert might be someone like a social worker who can help you find the right services or support you in working with DCF.

  • Ask your lawyer if you don’t understand something. They want to help you do your best in your case.

    Tell your lawyer your goals and if there are things making it hard for you to work with DCF or the court wants. Your lawyer can help you find support, connect with services, and speak up for your needs in court.

    Before your court hearing, your lawyer will help you understand your rights, explain the strengths and challenges in your case, and help you make informed decisions about what to do next.

  • If you have a concern about a decision made by DCF, your lawyer will help you understand your options and what to do next. This could include talking with DCF, asking for a “fair hearing,” writing letters, or going to court. Your lawyer will guide you through the entire process.

  • Along with you, your lawyer, and the court, DCF plays an important role in helping your children return home safely. If you have a disability or other needs, your lawyer can ask DCF to provide support or services that may help. If you believe DCF isn’t doing enough, your lawyer can ask the court to make sure your family gets the help you need.

  • In order to get ready for court, your lawyer may:

    • Request your DCF case papers and important documents to support your case

    • Ask the judge to review decisions about visits, your child’s placement, or DCF’s care

    • Explain your choices and work with you to make decisions that support your goals and your child’s well-being

    • Prepare you to speak with the judge during court

    • Work to make agreements and clearly explain your options

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