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Public Defender vs. Private DCFS Attorney in a Juvenile Dependency Case (What’s the Difference?)

Okabe & Haushalter Dec 22, 2018 Child Custody

Many of those dealing with the Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) think about hiring a DCFS attorney in Los Angeles. While the idea of being legally represented when you are being accused of abuse or neglect sounds reassuring, many of those involved in a case with the DCFS does not know where to find the right lawyer.

As you may or may not know, if you are dealing with the Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) or Child Protective Services (CPS)and are not legally represented by a private attorney, you may be provided with a public defender. But a public defender is hardly the best solution when you are being denied communication with your own child or a social worker is trying to have your child removed from the home.

When you are being accused of abuse or neglect and are up against DCFS or CPS in Los Angeles or elsewhere in California, only an experienced DCFS attorney Los Angeles will be able to assist you in your juvenile dependency case.

Public defenders vs. private attorneys in juvenile dependency cases

What’s the big difference between public defenders and private attorneys when you are being involved in a case with the DCFS or CPS? First and foremost, public defenders simultaneously handle multiple active cases. Naturally, this heavy workload causes a decline in public defenders’ productivity and efficiency, as it becomes impossible to keep up with all the details and updates in each case (and, in some cases, public defenders even forget the names of their clients).

Secondly, private attorneys have more connections and influence in juvenile dependency courts and are more capable of fighting for your interests and rights in the courtroom. Thirdly, private DCFS attorneys have much more experience and knowledge, and that’s exactly what you are paying for.

Sure, hiring a private attorney is more costly than being represented by a public defender, but with a private lawyer by your side, you know what you are investing your money into, as private attorneys are more likely to deliver and help you achieve the most favorable outcome in your particular case.

How DCFS attorney Los Angeles can help you

If you are being accused of abuse or neglect of a child, do not hesitate to contact a Los Angeles DCFS attorney at Okabe &Haushalter. You have no time to waste because it’s just a matter of time before a social worker from CPS or DCFS comes knocking on your door to have your child removed from a home.

If you do not act quickly, you assume the risk of never seeing your children again. If you are being wrongly accused of abuse or neglect and/or your child has been wrongfully removed from a home, you may be able to regain custody through the dependency court by seeking legal help from an experienced DCFS lawyer in Los Angeles or elsewhere in California.

How a child can be removed from a home in a juvenile dependency case

More often than not, children can be removed from your home based on allegations involving any of the following:

  • Neglect
  • Sexual abuse
  • Act of cruelty
  • Inflicting serious physical or emotional harm or damage
  • Leaving a child without supervision or provision for support
  • Exposing a child to an unsafe environment
  • Engaging in activities that put the child’s life at risk

If you are being accused by any of the above-mentioned, you will have to defend yourself in a juvenile dependency case. Your child will most likely have to live with the other parent, relatives, or another family until your juvenile dependency case is resolved.

If you are deemed dangerous for the child or your home is deemed unsafe for the child, the DCFS has the authority to find another home or family in which the child will be able to live safely. Don’t let them ruin your life and your relationship with your child.

Contact Okabe & Haushalter to schedule a free consultation with our Los Angeles juvenile dependency lawyer. Call our offices at 310-430-7799 for a free case evaluation.