How Two Parents Were Able to Get False Allegations of Abuse Unsupported: MA DCF Case Study

False allegations of sexual abuse arose when a therapist misinterpreted statements made by a child with special needs, prompting DCF to open a case against the father. Despite knowing the accusations were unfounded, the parents faced accusations of neglect and harassment during the investigation. With the help of Attorney Kevin Seaver, the family successfully demonstrated the truth, leading to an Unsupported decision and relief from the case, ensuring their rights were protected throughout the process.

Case Highlights:

• Mom received notice that Dad was accused of sexually abusing his special needs Child
• The report stemmed from the Child’s story that had occurred many years ago
• DCF screened in the report however only substantiated concern
• Attorney Seaver was able to determine the true nature of the events
• DCF removed the substantiated concern from the report, unsupported the investigation and left Dad alone

Case Study:

This case involves a child with special needs who made statements to their therapist. The therapist became worried after misunderstanding what the child had said. They talked about a situation many years ago that could be interpreted as sexual abuse. The therapist filed a report with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families alleging the father of sexual abuse. DCF opened a case on Dad. Both Mom and Dad knew that these allegations were false, however DCF simply painted them as uncooperative. Mom was accused of neglect for doubting the child.

The Child was not in a capacity to make such statements. However DCF failed to consider her condition. Their worst fear was that their daughter might be taken away; this would have been very upsetting for her. DCF was trying to get private information from the family to the point that they felt harassed. Mom urged Dad to get an attorney that could protect them throughout the process. They hired Attorney Kevin Seaver because of his experience with DCF. The parents immediately felt more confident. Attorney Seaver spoke with the case worker and gave them important information about Dad. This helped guide them towards the correct decision.

The investigator took a lengthy amount of time to go over the case and failed to keep the concerned parties updated. When an assessment was opened regarding the family, Attorney Seaver stayed on top of the case. He put pressure on the Department to handle the case quickly. Because of this constant pushing, the case was eventually closed without a hearing ever taking place. The parents were thankful for the Unsupported decision. They knew that these serious allegations would no longer cast a dark shadow over their lives. During this challenging time, understanding what your rights are during a DCF investigation become crucial.

Disclaimer

You find yourself in this situation, it’s advisable to seek legal representation from a qualified attorney, like those at the Law Office of Kevin Seaver, who can advocate for your rights and guide you through the complex process of a DCF investigation.

Remember that the ultimate goal of DCF is to ensure the safety and well-being of children while supporting families in crisis.

Please note that this article does not create an Attorney-Client relationship between our law firm and the reader and is provided for informational purposes only. Information in this article does not apply to all readers.

Readers should not rely on this information as legal advice and should seek specific counsel from the attorney based on personal circumstances. Thank you.

Kevin Patrick Seaver is a Massachusetts DCF Defense Lawyer who represents parents against false child abuse allegations.

Massachusetts DCF Defense Lawyer Kevin Seaver has been successfully fighting false child abuse allegations since 1991.