WIC Section 300 Child Abuse and Neglect Cases in California

Understanding Juvenile Dependency Proceedings Under Welfare and Institutions Code Section 300

If Child Protective Services (CPS) or the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) has opened a case against you under Welfare and Institutions Code Section 300, it means the State believes your child may be at risk of abuse, neglect, or harm in your care. These cases are serious and can lead to court involvement, temporary or permanent removal of your child, and even termination of your parental rights.

Our legal team is here to help you understand your rights, defend against the allegations, and fight to keep your family together. We represent parents throughout California, including Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange Counties, in juvenile dependency cases involving WIC Section 300.

What Is WIC Section 300?

Welfare and Institutions Code Section 300 defines the legal grounds for when a child may be removed from their home and declared a dependent of the court. It outlines several categories under which a child may be found to be at risk, including:

• Physical abuse
• Failure to protect (e.g., exposing the child to domestic violence or substance abuse)
• Neglect or abandonment
• Serious emotional damage
• Sexual abuse
• Lack of provision for support or supervision

If the court finds that a child falls under any of the Section 300 categories, the child may be placed in foster care while the case proceeds. The court may order services for the parent, or in some cases, proceed toward permanent placement away from the parent.

Common Allegations Under WIC 300

Section 300 is divided into subsections, each covering a specific type of abuse or neglect. Here are the most common:

• 300(a): Physical abuse – Allegations that the child suffered serious physical harm caused by a parent or guardian
• 300(b): Failure to protect – Claims that a parent failed to supervise or protect the child from risk (including domestic violence or drug use)
• 300(c): Emotional damage – The child suffers severe anxiety, depression, or withdrawal due to the parent’s actions
• 300(d): Sexual abuse – Allegations that the child was sexually abused or at risk of sexual abuse
• 300(g): No provision for support – The parent is incarcerated, institutionalized, or otherwise unavailable to care for the child

What Happens During a WIC 300 Case?

When a CPS or DCFS investigation leads to a Section 300 petition being filed, the case enters the juvenile dependency court system. The process typically includes:

• Detention hearing – Determines whether the child will stay in protective custody
• Jurisdictional hearing – The court decides whether the allegations under Section 300 are true
• Dispositional hearing – If the allegations are sustained, the court decides on a case plan and placement
• Review hearings – The court checks the parent’s progress and whether the child can safely return home

Why You Need an Attorney

Facing a Section 300 petition can be overwhelming. Your words, behavior, and compliance with court orders will all be closely examined. Having a juvenile dependency attorney who understands Section 300 is essential to protect your rights, challenge false allegations, and help you meet court requirements for reunification.

We help you by:

• Responding to CPS/DCFS investigations
• Representing you at all court hearings
• Challenging inaccurate reports or evidence
• Negotiating services that fit your situation
• Advocating for visitation and reunification

Contact Us Today for Help with WIC 300 Cases

If you are under investigation or already involved in a juvenile dependency case involving Welfare and Institutions Code Section 300, time is critical. Call now to speak with an experienced CPS defense lawyer who will fight to protect your parental rights.

We serve families across Southern California, including Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County. Let us help you understand the process, stand up to DCFS, and work toward getting your child back home.