CPS Caseworker Competency During Sex Crime Investigations in Michigan
The penalties for sex crimes vary greatly, depending on the details of your case. In the state of Michigan, there are three degrees of criminal sexual conduct. First degree criminal sexual conduct is the most serious. It involves sexual penetration and a victim that is either a minor, blood relative, or mentally or physically handicapped. There may also be force, threat of force, or injury due to coercion when the defendant is in a position of authority. Second degree criminal sexual conduct does not involve sexual penetration, but the aggravating factors listed above are present. Third degree criminal sexual conduct involves penetration, but none of the aggravating factors. If you are found guilty of a sex crime, you could face large fines, jail time, and registration as a sex offender, all of which could have a significantly negative impact on your future. Contact Grabel & Associates if you have been accused of a sex crime and need help battling CPS to save your kids.
If you are a parent that has been accused of a sex crime, there is even more at stake. CPS may conduct an investigation and even try to take your children away from you. The best thing you can do is be proactive and take investigations seriously. Hiring an attorney as soon as you learn that CPS is looking into your case will give you the best shot at a just outcome.
CPS Investigation Process
Typically, you will not know that you are under investigation until CPS knocks on your front door. If a caseworker shows up, be polite and courteous, but do not let them inside without a warrant. Creating boundaries early on is a good way to protect your family and yourself during the investigation process. Always stand up for your legal rights, even when caseworkers are asking you to do otherwise.
After the initial home visit, your investigation will most likely include interviews, a doctor’s examination, a review of relevant case documents, and a final assessment of your family’s strengths and weaknesses. The CPS worker may decide to temporarily remove your child from your home if they deem he or she is unsafe at any point. If this happens, an initial hearing will take place within 72 hours. Having a lawyer on your side before case hearings is a good way to set yourself up for success and protect your family from the potential harm a CPS investigation can cause.
CPS Caseworker Competency Argument
If your child has already been taken from you and you are innocent, your attorney may be able to get the decision reversed by arguing caseworker competency. If the CPS worker on your case did not follow legal protocol or was not properly trained, their findings may be deemed invalid. If you want more information about whether or not this is an option in your case, call the Grabel & Associates team today.
If caseworker competency is not in question, our team may still be able to help you. A case analyst can provide you with a free initial case consultation and advise you of the best course of action available.
Defense for Parent or Legal Guardian Accused of Sex Crime
If you are a parent or legal guardian accused of a sex crime in Michigan, you may feel overwhelmed trying to handle your criminal case and CPS investigation. We understand that you have a lot to deal with and will do our best to help you achieve a favorable result. We pride ourselves in offering a holistic approach to criminal defense. This means we will keep your future and family in mind throughout the entire process, making it easy to move on with your life after your case has been wrapped up. Unlike other law firms that focus their efforts solely on winning, we will also consider how to protect your reputation and shield the ones you love. If you want a chance to take charge of your life again, pick up the phone and call us now.
Contact Us for 24/7 Criminal Defense
To connect with our staff, just dial 1-800-883-2138. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take your call and offer you a free initial case consultation.