When a Child Needs Protection?

Few of the children who are reported to Department of Child Safety are removed from their homes. In most situations where verified family problems exist, the families and DCS work together cooperatively to resolve them. However, under certain circumstances, the law does allow a police officer or a DCS Specialist to temporarily remove a child for up to 72 hours (not including weekends and holidays) for protection while the investigation takes place.

A child may be removed for up to 12 hours for a medical or psychological evaluation. If the DCS investigation shows that the child must remain out of the home for a longer period to protect him/her from harm, DCS arranges for safe, temporary care.