At a Glance
A 51B investigation is the next step after a 51A report has been screened in. The 51B is investigated by a response worker. It is a formal child abuse or neglect investigation conducted by DCF to determine whether the allegations in the 51A report are supported or unsupported. During a DCF 51B Investigation, the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) is required to follow specific procedures to ensure a thorough and fair investigation.
What happens during a 51B Investigation?
A 51A report is a formal allegation of child abuse or neglect. The term “51A” comes from Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 119, Section 51A, which outlines the process of reporting suspected child maltreatment. The report serves as the initial step in DCF’s involvement with a family. However, it is important to note that nothing in the 51A report is taken as fact – it is merely an allegation. It is the subsequent 51B investigation that corroborates or disproves the allegations.
- The DCF must initiate the 51B investigation within two business days of accepting a 51A report.
- There is an Immediate Response for Emergency Cases If the child is at immediate risk, the investigation must begin within 24 hours and has 5 days to be concluded.
- A non-Emergency Response is when a child is not in immediate danger but there are concerns about their well-being. DCF must initiate the 51B investigation within two business days of accepting a 51A report. The investigation must be completed within 15 business days unless an extension is granted.
- DCF must notify the child’s parents or legal guardians that an investigation is being conducted.
- The DCF must interview the child.
- The DCF must speak with the child’s parents or legal guardians and gather their perspective on the allegations.
- The DCF will Interview Other Relevant Individuals such as, teachers, doctors, daycare providers, law enforcement, and other people involved in the child’s life.
- The DCF is required to assess the child’s living conditions and determine if the environment is safe.
- The DCF may request and review medical, school, police, and other relevant records to assess the child’s well-being.
- The DCF must decide if there is reasonable cause to believe that abuse or neglect occurred.
- The DCF is required to provide the parents or caregivers with a written notice of their findings and any required next steps.
- If the allegations are supported, DCF must create an action plan outlining steps the family must take to address concerns.
- If the child is at risk, DCF may take immediate action, including filing for temporary custody or arranging for emergency services.
- In cases of serious abuse, neglect, or criminal conduct, DCF must report findings to the police and work jointly on the investigation.
- DCF must offer families voluntary or court-mandated services to address risk factors and prevent future harm.
- If a finding is “supported,” the caregiver has the right to request a Fair Hearing to challenge the decision. You must challenge the decision within 30 days of the date on the decision letter. To request a fair hearing send your form by mail, email and fax to: 600 Washington Street, 5th Floor, Boston, Massachusetts 02111 Tel: (617) 748-2030 / Fax: (617) 748-2062 E-mail: [email protected]
- When a case is closed it does not mean the decision has been reversed or overturned. The only place you can appeal a decision is at a fair hearing.
“There’s some things you can take chances with, one of them is not your children.”
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Want to Learn More?
Understanding the DCF is a difficult and arduous task, but we made it as approachable as possible with our Resource Center.
Explore our Resource Center for more detailed information regarding the DCF investigation process and what DCF does when investigating and assessing MA families. If you’re concerned about DCF parental alienation or how to navigate these complex situations, then contact an experienced Attorney to help provide you a plan to navigate DCF. Avoid the traps and pitfalls others have fallen into that keeps their cases open for months to years.
The Law Office of Kevin Patrick Seaver has been a steadfast ally for thousands of clients since 1991, particularly in cases involving DCF parental alienation. Our extensive experience across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts enables us to effectively assist clients in getting allegations declared unsupported, assessments closed, and decisions overturned.
Over 30 Years of Legal Experience
The Law Office of Kevin Patrick Seaver has been a steadfast ally for thousands of clients since 1991, particularly in cases involving DCF parental alienation. Our extensive experience across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts enables us to effectively assist clients in getting allegations declared unsupported, assessments closed, and decisions overturned.
