A Comprehensive Guide to CPS Investigations

If you’ve been contacted by the Department of Social Services (DSS) or Child Protective Services (CPS) about an investigation into alleged child abuse, neglect, or dependency, it can be an incredibly stressful and uncertain time. One of the first questions many parents ask is:

“Will I lose custody of my children?”

The investigative phase can feel like it takes forever. In severe cases, children may even be removed from the home, with parental contact being severely restricted. It’s important to understand how long CPS investigations last, what they involve, and what outcomes you may face.

How Long Do CPS Investigations Last?

In most cases, CPS has up to 45 days to complete an investigation into reports of abuse, neglect, or dependency. If the investigation extends beyond this timeframe, DSS must notify the family and document a valid reason for the delay. Common justifications include:

• Waiting on medical or forensic examinations

• Inability to schedule evaluations within the required time

• Additional information needed from professionals or collateral witnesses

Even with allowable extensions, CPS should aim to complete investigations within six weeks, unless there are significant, documented delays.

How Quickly Does CPS Begin an Investigation?

The urgency of a CPS investigation depends on the severity of the allegations:

• Within 72 hours: For general allegations of neglect.

• Within 24 hours: For serious allegations involving abuse, abandonment, or severe neglect.

Social workers typically meet with both the children and the parents in the early days of the investigation. As the case progresses, they may also interview teachers, doctors, and other individuals involved in the child’s life.

What Is a Child Medical Evaluation (CME)?

In abuse-related cases, CPS may ask for your consent to a Child Medical Evaluation (CME). This evaluation is investigative in nature and can play a pivotal role in the agency’s findings. Deciding whether to consent to a CME is a significant legal decision—one you should not make without first speaking to an experienced attorney.

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What Happens After a CPS Investigation?

At the end of the investigation, DSS will provide written notification of their findings. There are two main types of assessments that may determine the outcome:

1. Family Assessment (Typically in Neglect Cases)

Outcomes may include:

• Services Recommended: Voluntary services are suggested; case may close without follow-up.

• Services Needed: DSS will remain involved, offering in-home services to address safety risks.

• Services Provided, Services No Longer Needed: Initial concerns were serious, but services resolved the risks.

• Services Not Recommended: No safety concerns found; case is closed without further action.

2. Investigative Assessment (Serious Neglect, Abuse, Abandonment)

Possible findings include:

• Substantiated: DSS confirms that abuse or neglect occurred. Depending on severity, the agency may:

  • Petition for court-ordered removal of the children

  • Create a safety plan to prevent further harm

• Unsubstantiated: No evidence of maltreatment found; the case is closed.

Need Legal Help with a CPS Investigation?

CPS investigations are daunting and can feel overwhelming. DSS has significant authority during these proceedings, and parents often feel powerless.

That’s where we come in.

Our Certified Child Welfare Specialists have extensive experience helping families across North Carolina navigate CPS investigations and fight to preserve their rights and reunify with their children.

Let us protect your parental rights and help you move forward with confidence during your CPS investigation.

Contact Us Today

Helpful Links

• Child Protective Services FAQ (CPS / DSS)
• Can an Attorney Help Me During a CPS Investigation
• Can DSS Interview My Minor Children
• Responsible Individuals List (RIL)
• Public Health and Human Services Manual