Getting a call or knock at the door from Child Protective Services (CPS) can be a terrifying experience for any parent. One moment you’re going about your day, and the next, a social worker is asking questions about how you raise your children, inspecting your home, or even threatening to remove your kids.
In Orange County, CPS cases move quickly—and they can result in your child being removed from your care, sometimes within hours. If you’re under investigation or already involved in a juvenile dependency case, you need to act fast. The most important thing you can do right now is contact a skilled CPS defense attorney.
At ALL Trial Lawyers, we represent parents throughout Orange County who are facing CPS investigations, home removals, and juvenile dependency court hearings. We know the law, we know the courts, and we know how to fight back.
What Triggers a CPS Case in Orange County?
CPS typically opens a case after receiving a report of child abuse or neglect. These reports can come from:
- Teachers or school staff
- Doctors or hospitals
- Neighbors or family members
- Anonymous tips to the child abuse hotline
Once CPS receives a report, a social worker is assigned to investigate. That may include showing up unannounced at your home, interviewing your children without your knowledge, or recommending that your child be taken into protective custody.
Even if the report is false or exaggerated, the consequences can be very real.
Juvenile Dependency Court: What You’re Really Facing
If CPS files a formal petition, your case will move into juvenile dependency court at the Lamoreaux Justice Center in Orange. The first hearing, called a detention hearing, can be scheduled within just a few days of CPS involvement.
At that hearing, the judge will decide whether your child should remain in your home or be placed in foster care or with a relative while the case is ongoing. Without legal representation, you may not have a fair chance to defend yourself.
From there, you could be facing months of court hearings, mandatory services, supervised visits, and the risk of permanently losing your parental rights.
Why You Need a CPS Defense Lawyer on Day One
Many parents make the mistake of waiting until their child is removed or until the court hearing is scheduled. By that point, CPS has already built their case, and the judge may be relying heavily on the social worker’s report.
A defense attorney can help from the moment CPS contacts you. We can:
- Communicate with CPS on your behalf
- Protect your rights during interviews and investigations
- Advocate for your child to remain in your care
- Push for placement with relatives instead of foster care
- Challenge inaccurate reports and fight false allegations
- Guide you through your reunification plan if your child is removed
You don’t have to face CPS alone—and you shouldn’t.
Your Rights During a CPS Investigation
Many parents in Orange County aren’t aware that they have rights when dealing with CPS. You have the right to:
- Speak with a lawyer before answering questions
- Refuse entry to your home unless CPS has a warrant
- Decline drug tests unless ordered by the court
- Request all documents related to your case
CPS won’t always tell you these things. That’s why having a lawyer by your side is critical.
Get the Help You Need Today
At ALL Trial Lawyers, we understand what’s at stake. We’re not here to judge you—we’re here to protect your rights, your family, and your future. We’ve handled hundreds of CPS and juvenile dependency cases across Orange County and know exactly how to fight back against false accusations and government overreach.
If CPS has contacted you, removed your child, or opened a case against you, don’t wait. The sooner we get involved, the better your chances of keeping your family together.
Visit alltriallawyers.com/orange-county-dependency-cps-attorney or call our office today for a free, confidential consultation. We’re here to help—and we know how to win.
