Los Angeles County CPS Detention Hearings

What Parents Need to Know After DCFS Removes a Child

If your child has been removed by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) in Los Angeles County, your first court appearance will be a CPS detention hearing at the Edmund D. Edelman Children’s Court in Monterey Park or another local dependency courthouse. This is one of the most important stages of your case. At this hearing, the judge decides whether your child will remain in DCFS custody or return home while the case continues.

If you are facing a detention hearing in Los Angeles County, it is crucial to contact a Los Angeles CPS lawyer immediately. The sooner you act, the better your chances of keeping your family together.

What Is a Detention Hearing in a DCFS Case?

A detention hearing is the first formal court hearing in a juvenile dependency case. It usually happens within 72 hours (not counting weekends or court holidays) after your child is removed by DCFS. The purpose of the hearing is for the judge to decide whether your child will stay in out-of-home care or be released back to you or a safe relative.

DCFS files a legal petition under Welfare and Institutions Code Section 300, outlining the reasons for removal. These can include allegations of abuse, neglect, domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health concerns, or unsafe living conditions.

Where Do Detention Hearings Take Place in Los Angeles County?

Most CPS and DCFS-related detention hearings in Los Angeles County take place at:

Edmund D. Edelman Children’s Court
201 Centre Plaza Dr.
Monterey Park, CA 91754

However, cases may also be heard at other dependency court locations depending on where the family lives, including Pomona, Lancaster, or Long Beach.

What Happens at the Detention Hearing?

At your Los Angeles County detention hearing, the judge will:

• Review the DCFS report and allegations
• Hear from your attorney and the county counsel
• Consider whether your child is at immediate risk
• Decide whether your child should return home, stay in foster care, or be placed with a relative

You have the right to attend this hearing, be represented by an attorney, and speak on your own behalf. The judge will also appoint an attorney for your child.

Can My Child Come Home After the Detention Hearing?

Yes, but only if the judge finds that it is safe. If the court believes the risk to your child is too high, they may order continued DCFS custody. In many cases, the court may consider placing your child with a trusted relative or family friend instead of foster care.

That is why it is essential to have a Los Angeles juvenile dependency attorney who can present your side clearly, challenge DCFS’s claims, and propose safe alternatives to foster care.

Why Legal Help Is Urgent and Essential

The outcome of your detention hearing can determine the direction of your entire case. Delays, silence, or lack of preparation can result in extended separation from your child. With a qualified DCFS defense lawyer in Los Angeles County by your side, you can take immediate steps to protect your parental rights and argue for your child’s return.

Our attorneys can:

• Respond quickly to DCFS reports and prepare for your hearing
• Present evidence and arguments for your child’s safe return
• Arrange emergency placement with a relative when appropriate
• Guide you through the next steps in the juvenile dependency process

Call Now for Help with a CPS Detention Hearing in Los Angeles County

If your child was removed by DCFS, do not wait. You only have a few days before your detention hearing takes place at juvenile dependency court. Contact us now to speak with a trusted Los Angeles CPS lawyer who can help you prepare and fight for your family. We represent parents across Los Angeles County, including Los Angeles, Long Beach, Pasadena, Pomona, Inglewood, Lancaster, Santa Monica, and Glendale. Call today for a confidential consultation and immediate legal support.