When you’re a parent, nothing is more important than the safety and wellbeing of your child. That’s why it can be so distressing when the court becomes involved in your family life through a CHIPS case (Children in Need of Protection or Services).
These cases can raise serious concerns, often involving accusations of neglect, abuse, or an inability to care for your child. In this blog, we’ll explain what CHIPS cases are, why they are initiated, and how an experienced CHIPS defense attorney in Minnesota can help protect your parental rights.
What Is a CHIPS Case?
A CHIPS case is a legal process in Minnesota where a court steps in to protect the welfare of a child who may be at risk due to neglect, abuse, or other concerns. These cases are typically initiated after a report is made to social services about the safety or care of a child. If the agency finds reason to believe the child is in need of court intervention, they will file a CHIPS petition.
CHIPS cases can arise from a variety of situations, including:
- Allegations of neglect (such as not providing adequate food, shelter, or medical care)
- Reports of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse
- Concerns about a parent’s ability to care for the child due to substance abuse, mental health issues, or repeated incarceration
- Truancy or other juvenile delinquency issues
Once a CHIPS petition is filed, the court will hold hearings to determine whether the child needs to be placed in protective care, such as foster care, or whether the family can address the concerns while keeping the child at home.
How Are CHIPS Cases Initiated?
CHIPS cases often begin when someone – such as a teacher, doctor, neighbor, or relative – reports suspected neglect or abuse to social services. A social services agency then investigates the situation, and if they determine that the child’s safety or wellbeing is at risk, they may work with the family to resolve the issue. However, if the problems persist, or if parents refuse to cooperate, the agency may ask the county attorney to file a CHIPS petition.
Once the petition is filed, the court will decide whether the child should stay at home under supervision, be placed with a relative, or be placed in foster care. From that point on, parents are required to work on a case plan to address the issues raised in the petition, and regular court hearings will take place to monitor progress.
Why You Need a CHIPS Defense Attorney
CHIPS cases can be overwhelming and confusing for parents, especially when the stakes are so high. A CHIPS defense attorney in Minnesota can provide the legal guidance and support you need to protect your parental rights and work toward a positive resolution. Here’s how a child protection lawyer can help:
- Defending Your Parental Rights: An attorney will advocate for you in court, ensuring that your side of the story is heard and that your rights as a parent are protected. They will work to prevent the unnecessary removal of your child from your home and fight for reunification if your child has already been placed in foster care.
- Navigating the Legal Process: The legal process involved in CHIPS cases can be complicated and involve numerous court hearings, case plans, and interactions with social services. A skilled lawyer will help you navigate this process, making sure you understand your responsibilities and rights at each stage.
- Challenging the Evidence: If the CHIPS case is based on faulty or insufficient evidence, a lawyer can challenge the findings of the investigation. This can include questioning the accuracy of reports, witness statements, or the methods used by social services.
- Ensuring Compliance from Social Services: In CHIPS cases, social services agencies are required to make “reasonable efforts” to help parents comply with their case plan. Your attorney can ensure that these efforts are being made and that social services is fulfilling their legal obligations to you and your family.
Protecting Your Family’s Future
If you’re facing a CHIPS case, the future of your family may feel uncertain. But you don’t have to go through it alone. A compassionate and experienced CHIPS defense attorney in Minnesota can provide the support and legal representation you need to navigate this difficult time.
At Sieben Edmunds Miller, we understand how stressful CHIPS cases can be, and we are here to help you protect your parental rights and your family’s wellbeing. Our team has extensive experience handling CHIPS cases, and we are dedicated to providing the knowledgeable and compassionate representation you deserve.
Get the Help You Need with Your CHIPS Case Today
If you’re facing a CHIPS case, contact the experienced CHIPS defense attorneys at Sieben Edmunds Miller for a free case evaluation. We’ll work with you to develop a strategy that protects your parental rights and ensures your family’s future.
