If you are reading this, you are likely going through one of the most terrifying experiences a parent can face. Child Protective Services (CPS) or the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) has become involved in your life, and your children may have been removed from your home. The fear, confusion, and heartbreak you are feeling right now are completely valid.

At Family First Attorneys, led by Managing Attorney Mitchell Krems, we understand the emotional toll a juvenile dependency case takes on a family. We also know that the system can feel overwhelming and stacked against you. But there is hope. The primary goal of the California juvenile dependency system is not to tear families apart permanently, but to keep children safe and, whenever possible, return them to their parents. This process is guided by something called reunification services.

In this article, we will explain what reunification services in California are, what a family reunification plan entails, and what you must do to get your children back.

What Are Reunification Services in California?

When a child is removed from their home by CPS or DCFS and placed in foster care or with a relative, the court is generally required by law to provide the parents with help to fix the problems that led to the removal. This help comes in the form of reunification services.

Under California Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) Section 361.5, reunification services are designed to address the specific issues that caused the court to intervene. The ultimate goal is to reunite you with your child safely. These services are not a punishment; they are a roadmap to getting your family back together.

Reunification services can include a wide range of programs and support, such as:

The court will order the county child welfare agency (like DCFS) to provide or refer you to these services. It is crucial to understand that these services are time-limited. Depending on the age of your child when they were removed, you typically have between 6 to 18 months to complete your services and show the court that it is safe for your child to return home.

What Is a Family Reunification Plan?

A family reunification plan (often referred to as a case plan) is the formal, written document that outlines exactly what you need to do to get your children back. Think of it as your contract with the court and the social worker.

Your family reunification plan CPS California will be tailored to your specific situation. If the court found that substance abuse was an issue, your plan will require drug testing and treatment. If domestic violence was the concern, your plan will mandate domestic violence classes.

A typical case plan juvenile dependency California includes:

  1. Specific Goals: What needs to change for your child to be safe at home.
  2. Required Services: The classes, counseling, or treatments you must complete.
  3. Visitation Schedule: When, where, and how often you can see your child. Visitation is a critical component of the reunification plan, as it maintains the bond between you and your child.
  4. Deadlines: The timeline for completing your requirements.

    5. You must follow this plan exactly as it is written. Even if you disagree with some of the requirements, failing to complete them can result in the termination of your parental rights.

    How Can You Successfully Complete Your Case Plan?

    Navigating a juvenile dependency case is incredibly stressful, but your actions during this time are critical. Here is practical, actionable advice on how to successfully complete your family reunification plan:

    Start Immediately

    Do not wait for the court to officially order services if you already know what the issues are. If substance abuse is a concern, enroll in a program or start attending AA/NA meetings right away. Showing initiative demonstrates to the court and the social worker that you are taking the situation seriously and are committed to getting your child back.

    Stay Organized

    Keep a binder or folder with all your important documents. This should include your case plan, court orders, contact information for your social worker and attorney, and proof of your participation in services. Keep sign-in sheets from classes, letters from therapists, and results from drug tests. Do not rely solely on the social worker to keep track of your progress.

    Communicate with Your Social Worker

    Your relationship with your social worker may be strained, but it is essential to maintain open and respectful communication. Keep them updated on your progress, provide them with certificates of completion, and ask for help if you are struggling to access a required service. If you cannot reach your social worker, document your attempts to contact them.

    Never Miss a Visit

    Visitation is often the most important part of your reunification plan. It shows the court that you are bonded with your child and committed to being in their life. Arrive early for visits, bring snacks or activities, and focus entirely on your child. If you must miss a visit due to an emergency, notify the social worker and the caregiver immediately.

    Follow Your Attorney's Advice

    Your attorney is your advocate in the courtroom. Be honest with them about your struggles and your progress. If you relapse or miss a class, tell your attorney before the social worker finds out. They can help you mitigate the damage and present the best possible case to the judge.

    Are There Times When Reunification Services Are Denied?

    While the law generally requires the court to offer reunification services, there are exceptions. Under WIC Section 361.5(b), the court can "bypass" or deny reunification services in certain severe situations. These bypass provisions include, but are not limited to:

    If the county is asking the court to deny you reunification services, you are at serious risk of losing your child permanently. You need an experienced juvenile dependency attorney to fight for your right to receive services.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long do I have to complete my reunification plan?

    The timeline depends on the age of your child. If your child was under 3 years old when removed, you generally have 6 months to show significant progress. If your child was 3 or older, you typically have 12 months. In some cases, this can be extended up to 18 or even 24 months, but extensions are not guaranteed.

    What happens if I don't finish my classes in time?

    If you do not complete your case plan within the legal time limits, the court will likely terminate reunification services. The case will then move to a permanency planning hearing (often called a .26 hearing), where the court will decide on a permanent plan for your child, which could include adoption and the termination of your parental rights.

    Can I choose my own therapist or classes?

    Usually, the social worker will provide you with referrals to approved providers. If you want to use a different provider, you must ensure they are approved by the county and meet the court's requirements. Always check with your social worker or attorney before starting a program not on the referral list.

    Do I have to pay for reunification services?

    Many services are provided for free or on a sliding scale based on your income. If you are struggling to pay for a required service, tell your social worker and your attorney immediately. The county may be able to provide funding or refer you to a free program.

    What if my social worker isn't helping me?

    Social workers have high caseloads, and sometimes they drop the ball. If your social worker is not providing referrals or returning your calls, document everything. Keep a log of when you called or emailed. Give this information to your attorney so they can bring it to the court's attention.

    Contact Family First Attorneys Today

    Facing a CPS or DCFS investigation is a nightmare, but you do not have to go through it alone. The stakes are too high to try to navigate the complex juvenile dependency system without experienced legal representation.

    At Family First Attorneys, located in Orange, California, Managing Attorney Mitchell Krems and our dedicated team are committed to fighting for your family. We understand the nuances of reunification services in California and will work tirelessly to help you complete your family reunification plan and bring your children home.

    If DCFS is involved in your life, time is of the essence. Contact Family First Attorneys today to schedule a consultation and let us help you protect your parental rights.

    Protect Your Family — Call Now

    If CPS or DCFS is involved with your family, don't wait. Family First Attorneys provides 24/7 emergency consultations and aggressive defense for parents across Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties.

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    This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by reading this content. Every CPS and DCFS case is unique and the outcome depends on the specific facts and circumstances involved. Please consult a qualified California family law attorney regarding your specific situation.