DCFS Social Worker Investigations and Interviews in Los Angeles County

What Parents Need to Know When DCFS Shows Up at Your Door

If a DCFS social worker has contacted you, visited your home, or asked to speak with your child, it means you’re under investigation. This process can feel confusing, stressful, and even frightening—but what you do next is critical.

Our experienced Los Angeles CPS defense lawyers represent parents throughout Los Angeles County during Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) investigations and interviews. Whether you’re in Los Angeles, Long Beach, Pomona, Inglewood, Lancaster, or any surrounding city, we can help protect your rights and guide you through every step.

Why Is DCFS Investigating Me?

DCFS investigations typically begin after someone reports suspected child abuse or neglect. This could be a teacher, doctor, neighbor, or even a former partner. Once a report is made, DCFS is legally required to investigate.

Common reasons for DCFS investigations in Los Angeles County include:

• Allegations of physical or emotional abuse
• Claims of child neglect or unsafe living conditions
• Domestic violence in the home
• Parental drug or alcohol use
• Mental health concerns
• Unexplained injuries or frequent absences from school

What Happens During a DCFS Social Worker Visit?

When a DCFS social worker visits your home, they may:

• Ask to speak with you
• Ask to interview your child privately
• Inspect your home for safety issues
• Take photographs
• Request that you take a drug test
• Ask questions about your parenting, routines, and relationships

They are trained to observe everything—from your tone of voice to the cleanliness of your home. Even if you believe you have nothing to hide, it’s easy for your words to be misinterpreted or taken out of context.

Do I Have to Let a DCFS Social Worker Into My Home?

You are not legally required to let a DCFS social worker into your home without a court order. However, refusing entry may lead DCFS to escalate the situation and request a warrant or file a petition in juvenile dependency court.

This is why it’s critical to speak with a Los Angeles CPS attorney before agreeing to any interviews, searches, or drug tests. A lawyer can help you understand your options, communicate with the social worker on your behalf, and prevent unnecessary escalation.

Should I Let My Child Be Interviewed Alone?

DCFS will often ask to interview your child without you present. While this is allowed under California law, you have the right to ask that the interview be conducted at a neutral location, such as your child’s school or a DCFS office.

Children are vulnerable during these interviews, and even innocent comments can be misunderstood. It’s essential to consult with a juvenile dependency attorney in Los Angeles before allowing the interview to take place.

What Happens After the Investigation?

Depending on the outcome, DCFS may:

• Close the case if they find no evidence of abuse or neglect
• Open a voluntary case plan and ask you to complete services
• File a petition in juvenile dependency court to remove your child or place them under court supervision

If DCFS files a petition, your case will be heard at the Edmund D. Edelman Children’s Court in Monterey Park or another juvenile court in Los Angeles County. At that point, you must act fast to protect your parental rights.

How We Can Help

Our Los Angeles CPS attorneys can:

• Speak directly with DCFS on your behalf
• Advise you before and during interviews or home visits
• Push back against unnecessary or invasive demands
• Prevent escalation to court whenever possible
• Represent you in juvenile dependency proceedings if a petition is filed

Call Now If You’re Under DCFS Investigation in Los Angeles County

If a DCFS social worker has contacted you, do not face it alone. Everything you say and do can affect your case and your family. Let our experienced legal team step in and protect your rights.

We represent families across Los Angeles County, including Los Angeles, Long Beach, Pasadena, Inglewood, Lancaster, Pomona, Glendale, and surrounding areas. Call now for a confidential consultation with a trusted Los Angeles CPS defense lawyer. Get answers, get clarity, and take control of your case.