DHR or CPS Knocked — What Now? Your Rights, What to Say, and How to Protect Yourself as a Parent

Your heart stops. Child Protective Services just knocked—and your mind races with fear. Whether it's CPS, DHR, DCFS, or DFCS, this is not the time to wing it. This national guide walks you through what to say, what NOT to say, and how to handle CPS visits without putting your family at risk.

Written by an experienced family law attorney, this guide includes:

Word-for-word scripts to use when CPS calls or shows up

Clear explanations of your rights in any U.S. state

What to do if they talk to your kids at school

Mistakes to avoid at all costs

This checklist/guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, psychological, or professional advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship or any other professional-client relationship. The information provided is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified attorney, financial advisor, tax professional, psychologist, or other expert regarding your specific situation.

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and may change over time. The author and publisher make no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the completeness, accuracy, or applicability of this information to any individual circumstances. The user assumes all responsibility for how they use this material. If you require legal, financial, or other professional advice, consult a licensed expert in your jurisdiction.