CPS took our kids... what do we do now?

Hey, guys, we’re in San Diego County, California, and last night CPS took our kids (ages 5 and 7). We weren’t shown a warrant, even though their mom asked for one. She also asked for the kids to go to their grandma, but the CPS worker said no. The grandma even called the worker, and they hung up on her. We’ve requested the current investigator be replaced, but that didn’t happen. They claim physical abuse, but the only evidence is a small scratch on our 7-year-old’s bottom, which our doctor said could be from scratching due to dry skin. There’s also an old scratch on our 5-year-old from a dog while visiting family. We have a hearing on Tuesday and need advice since we can’t afford a lawyer.

You definitely need to talk to a lawyer. They should’ve had a warrant unless it was an emergency, which doesn’t sound like the case here. Did you record any of this?

Whit said:
You definitely need to talk to a lawyer. They should’ve had a warrant unless it was an emergency, which doesn’t sound like the case here. Did you record any of this?

I wish we had thought to record it. It all happened so fast, and we were just in shock.

CPS usually doesn’t just take kids without a good reason. Be honest about your situation, and don’t say too much unless you have a lawyer.

Naomi said:
CPS usually doesn’t just take kids without a good reason. Be honest about your situation, and don’t say too much unless you have a lawyer.

I get that, but I feel like there’s a lot more going on that they aren’t telling us. We cooperated, but it feels like they just didn’t listen.

Make sure you have documentation for everything. If your doctor can explain the scratches, that could help. You need to present evidence at the hearing.

Don’t talk to CPS without a lawyer present. You’ll be assigned one for the hearing. Make a list of relatives who can take the kids if possible.

Vera said:
Don’t talk to CPS without a lawyer present. You’ll be assigned one for the hearing. Make a list of relatives who can take the kids if possible.

Thanks for the advice. We’ve got family ready, but they need to be cleared first. It’s just so overwhelming.

Keep pushing for what’s right for your kids. It’s tough, but stay strong. Document everything for your case.