How to Best Protect the Kids in a MA DCF Investigation of Child Abuse?
After the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (MA DCF) screens in a 51A report, they will conduct a 51B investigation. It is called a “51B investigation” because it follows guidelines of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 119, section 51B. The 51B investigation is more commonly known as the MA DCF investigation of child abuse/neglect.
These investigations are very particular, and there are great risks that come with it. You can lose your time, money, reputation and job. Most importantly, you could lose your children to DCF foster care. To have the best possible outcome in a 51B investigation, seek representation from an experienced DCF attorney.
What does a typical MA DCF Investigation of Child Abuse look like?
For a DCF investigation, DCF will assign a social worker to investigate the family. The social worker will then visit the child’s home (do a home visit), and then If relevant, the investigator will also take the time to determine the extent, cause, and nature of the child’s injuries. They will observe and speak to all the children in the home. Lastly, parents and environment within the home will also be evaluated.
Outside of the home, investigators and social workers seek information and may speak to collaterals; neighbors, teachers, doctors, therapists, relatives, members of the family’s church or place of worship, etc. For every MA DCF investigation of child abuse or neglect, the 51B investigator must:
- Thoroughly investigate the report of child abuse or neglect
- Prepare a written assessment of the parents
- Evaluate the child’s home environment
- Determine the safety of the child and list the possible risks to the child
- Determine the safety and risks to all the other children
- Make a conclusion about the allegations (which would be the outcome of the investigation)
Complying with the investigation and working with an attorney can help smooth the investigation process and any possible continued involvement with DCF.
How do I protect my kids During a DCF Investigation?
The best way to protect your children during a MA DCF investigation of child abuse is to prepare them. Prepare your children in the following ways:
- Why DCF becomes involved with a family
- What DCF will ask them during a MA DCF investigation of child abuse
- Help them understand the risks of having DCF in their lives
Also, teach your children about the risks and consequences of a MA DCF investigation. The risks to your children are that they may be separated from their family forever, they may have a bad reputation at school, and the allegations may go on their permanent record.
How Exactly Does Preparing Your Children Help?
When your children know why DCF became involved with your family, they can act accordingly. In other words, your children can stop themselves from saying too much to a social worker, they can clarify any incorrect information in the 51A report, and they can help you make sure your home is free of any hazards that DCF would have problems with. You and your children must be a united front. You have to work together to get DCF to close the case and get out of your life without removing the children from the home.
Sometimes, DCF asks children extremely strange, personal and uncomfortable questions. When your children know what DCF will ask them during an interview, they won’t be blindsided by anything. Also, they won’t be shocked or surprised by DCF’s questions. This is important because in the past, DCF has misunderstood a child’s reaction to a question with signs of abuse or neglect. Parents should hire an experienced DCF lawyer to find out exactly what questions DCF asks children during an investigation or assessment.
The best DCF lawyers will have a list of the questions DCF asks, and prepares your children for an interview by a social worker. It is also very important to support your children during this time. If you feel lost, confused and overwhelmed, your children probably do too. Having DCF in your life does not mean you are a bad parent, but you should not give DCF a chance to think that you are. You must go above and beyond in your parental duties to show DCF that you have your child’s best interests at heart.
Kevin Seaver is a trusted Massachusetts DCF Lawyer Specialized in DCF since 1991. 
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.
