Do you have questions about child protection?
Child Protective Services (CPS) in Texas has the job of protecting children so they are safe and well. In fact, when children are at risk of harm, Texas law allows intervention. And courts strive to act in the best interests of the child.
The following are some common questions people ask about Child Protective Services.
What is Child Protective Services (CPS) in Texas?
Child Protective Services (CPS) is an agency that becomes involved with families and children to investigate reports of child abuse and neglect.
What is child abuse?
Texas law defines child abuse as action or inaction that harms a child. In fact, courts consider different types of harm. They view mental and emotional injury as well as physical injury. They look for injury to the child’s growth, development or psychological function. Furthermore, any action that substantially injures a child would be an example of abuse. Punching, shoving or bruising a child is physical abuse. Other specific examples of abuse would include sexual conduct toward the child. This includes taking obscene photographs or child pornography and encouraging a child to use a controlled substance.
What is child neglect?
Child neglect relates to actions or omissions that put the child at risk or cause the child immediate harm. Neglect would be failing to act as a reasonable person would act to protect a child. Examples include not getting a child medical care, if the child is at substantial risk. Substantial risk would mean bodily injury, disfigurement or death. Failing to provide a child with food, clothing or shelter is neglect. Failing to remove a child from a situation that exposes them to harmful sexual conduct is also neglect.
(More information is available at the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services website).
Are you concerned about your child’s welfare?
If you suspect abuse or neglect, you can always seek a legal opinion. Charity Borserine can provide you with compassionate legal counsel and strong advocacy.
Borserine Law represents children, parents, foster parents and grandparents in CPS cases.