Your family’s future is at stake when the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) initiates an investigation against you. Allegations of child neglect or abuse can lead to serious consequences, including removing your children from your home, terminating parental rights, and even criminal charges. You need help from an experienced Rock Hill DSS defense attorney if you face a DSS investigation.
At Faulkner Law Firm, LLC we know how overwhelming these accusations can be. Our legal team protects your rights, defends your family, and ensures you receive fair treatment. Call us today at (803) 818-5700 to get started with our team.
Understanding DSS Investigations
The South Carolina DSS is responsible for investigating reports of child abuse and neglect. These reports can come from teachers, doctors, law enforcement, neighbors, or anonymous sources. Once DSS receives a report, they must assess whether the child is in danger. A DSS investigation may involve:
- Home visits and interviews with parents, children, and other household members
- Requests for medical examinations or psychological evaluations
- Temporary removal of children from the home if DSS believes there is an immediate risk
- Court hearings that could determine your ability to retain custody of your child
These investigations often move quickly, and DSS may attempt to pressure you into signing a safety plan or agreeing to services that could impact your parental rights. Therefore, it is critical to seek immediate legal counsel from our experienced Rock Hill DSS defense law firm.
Your Rights During a DSS Investigation
If you are under investigation by DSS, it is essential to remember that you have legal protections. You are not required to answer questions that the agency can use against you, and you can decline to allow DSS investigators into your home unless they have a court order. Additionally, you are entitled to have an attorney present during any interviews or hearings and have the opportunity to challenge the accusations by presenting evidence in your defense.
Unaware of these protections, many parents feel pressured to comply with every DSS request, sometimes to their detriment. Our Rock Hill DSS defense attorneys are here to safeguard your rights and ensure that DSS operates within its legal boundaries and does not take advantage of your situation.
How Our DSS Defense Attorneys Can Help
DSS cases are complex and require a compelling legal defense to protect your family’s future. Faulkner Law Firm, LLC will:
Defend Against False Allegations
Unfortunately, some DSS cases arise from false accusations made by an ex-spouse, disgruntled family member, or misunderstanding. We will investigate the claims against you, gather evidence, and challenge unfounded accusations.
Represent You in Court
DSS proceedings often involve court hearings, including emergency custody hearings and adjudication hearings. We will fight to ensure that you receive due process and that DSS presents clear and convincing evidence before taking any action against you.
Negotiate with DSS
Sometimes, it may be possible to resolve issues without going to trial. We can negotiate with DSS to modify safety plans, work out agreements allowing you to keep custody of your children, or advocate for them to return the children they have removed.
Appeal DSS Decisions
If DSS has wrongfully removed your children or taken legal action against you, we can appeal their decision. We will fight aggressively to reunite you with your children.
Contact Our Rock Hill DSS Defense Lawyers Today
Seek legal representation immediately if DSS has contacted you or taken action against your family. The sooner you involve our experienced attorneys, the better your chances of protecting your parental rights. Faulkner Law Firm, LLC can help you navigate the challenges of DSS investigations and legal proceedings. Contact us today for a confidential consultation, and take the first step toward safeguarding your family.