April 14, 2025 | Criminal Defense
If Child Protective Services (CPS) is investigating you in Kentucky, the situation can feel overwhelming. CPS, part of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), plays an important role in protecting children from abuse or neglect, but these investigations can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or even criminal charges.
Learning about how the process works and what rights you have is crucial. Whether the allegations are false or exaggerated, early legal guidance can make a significant difference in protecting your reputation, your family, and your freedom.
Why CPS Might Get Involved
CPS investigations typically begin with a report of suspected child abuse or neglect. These reports can come from anyone, including neighbors, doctors, teachers, or even anonymous callers. Once CPS receives a report, it is generally required by law to investigate the situation.
Common reasons CPS might investigate include:
- Allegations of physical abuse
- Reports of sexual abuse or exploitation
- Neglect, including lack of supervision, food, or shelter
- Drug use or criminal activity in the home
- Unsafe living conditions
- Domestic violence exposure
Even if the report is based on a misunderstanding or a false allegation, CPS must take the claim seriously. That’s why it’s so important to take the situation seriously yourself and protect your rights from the start.
What Happens During a CPS Investigation?
CPS investigations in Kentucky typically begin quickly after a report is made. The process can vary depending on the details of the case, but most investigations follow a similar structure:
First, a CPS caseworker may show up at your home unannounced. They might ask to speak with your child, other family members, or people who live in the home. Sometimes, they’ll also contact your child’s school or daycare provider. However, know that you have Fourth Amendment rights in this scenario insofar as CPS generally cannot enter your home without a court order or in exigent circumstances.
CPS will look for signs of abuse or neglect. This might include checking for injuries, examining the living conditions, or reviewing medical records.
Depending on their findings, the agency could:
- Close the case with no further action
- Offer voluntary services
- Remove the child from the home temporarily
- Refer the case for criminal prosecution
Even if no criminal charges are filed, the investigation can have lasting effects. For example, you could be added to Kentucky’s child abuse registry, which can impact your employment or custody rights.
Could a CPS Case Lead to Criminal Charges?
Yes. In some cases, CPS may refer your case to law enforcement. If this happens, you could face criminal charges such as child abuse, neglect, endangerment, or drug offenses, depending on the situation.
Potential criminal charges are one of the biggest risks of a CPS investigation. Even if the original report was inaccurate, your response can affect whether law enforcement gets involved.
If charges are filed, the consequences can be severe. A conviction can lead to jail time, probation, loss of custody, and a permanent criminal record. Working with an attorney who understands both CPS proceedings and the criminal justice system is essential.
Contact a Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney in Kentucky Today if CPS is Investigating You
You don’t have to face a CPS investigation alone. A criminal defense lawyer can help you take the correct steps, avoid serious consequences, and protect your relationship with your children.
Most defense attorneys offer free consultations, so there’s no risk in reaching out. Whether you’ve already been contacted by CPS or just want to prepare for what’s ahead, legal guidance is available now.
Take control of your case and protect your family; speak with a Kentucky criminal defense attorney today.
Contact the Lexington Criminal Defense Attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers For Help Today
For more information, contact the criminal defense attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers. Give us a call today at (859) 569-4014 or visit us at our Lexington law office.
Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers – Lexington
333 West Vine Street #212
Lexington, KY 40507
