Fort Lauderdale, FL Juvenile Dependency Lawyer

Attorney Helping to Reunify Parents and Children in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

When a family is investigated because of concerns about the health, safety, and well-being of children, parents may be concerned about how they and their children will be affected. These cases often begin with allegations of abuse, neglect, or abandonment, and they may lead to the temporary or long-term removal of children from the home. Families who are involved in the dependency court system may experience uncertainty and fear, and parents will need to understand what steps they can take to protect their parental rights.

At The Hoffman Firm, our lawyer provides compassionate representation for parents who are involved in dependency proceedings. He works to ensure that families are treated fairly by the system and that parents are given the opportunity to address concerns and reunify with their children. He provides invaluable support for families through every stage of the process, focusing on practical solutions that will protect children's best interests.

Why Children May Be Removed From a Parent's Custody

The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) may initiate a dependency case when there are reports that indicate that a child may be at risk of harm due to abuse, neglect, or other issues that have put their safety at risk. A case may begin with a call to the abuse hotline, followed by an investigation and potential removal of a child from their parents' home.

Common reasons for dependency proceedings include:

• Allegations of physical or emotional abuse
• Claims of child neglect, such as lack of supervision, unsafe living conditions, or failure to meet basic needs
• Parental substance abuse that creates a danger to the child
• Abandonment of a child by a parent
• Exposure to domestic violence or criminal activity in the home
• Mental health concerns that may affect a parent's ability to care for their child

Removal is usually considered to be a last resort, but if investigators believe that a child is in imminent danger, they may seek an emergency shelter order to place the child in foster care or with a relative while a court evaluates the situation.

The Dependency Process in Florida Courts

Dependency proceedings are civil cases handled in the juvenile division of the circuit court. They involve multiple stages, and the primary goal will usually be family reunification, as long as this would be in the best interests of the child. The general process includes:

• Shelter Hearing: This hearing is held within 24 hours of a child's removal. The court will decide whether the child should remain in out-of-home care temporarily. Parents have the right to be represented by an attorney and present evidence during this hearing.
• Arraignment Hearing: The parent will be formally advised of the allegations in the dependency petition, and they will enter a plea in which they will admit to or deny the allegations. If the parent denies the allegations, the case will proceed to adjudication.
• Adjudicatory Hearing: The court will hear evidence to determine whether the child is dependent and in need of protection due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. If the child is adjudicated dependent, the court will move to the disposition phase.
• Disposition Hearing: The judge will determine the appropriate placement for the child, and they will order a case plan that outlines the steps the parent must take to achieve reunification.
• Case Plan and Judicial Reviews: Parents will be required to comply with a court-approved case plan, which may include parenting classes, substance abuse treatment, mental health counseling, or other services. The court will hold periodic judicial review hearings to evaluate the progress of the case.
• Permanency Hearing: This hearing will be held within 12 months of removal. The court will decide whether reunification is appropriate or whether another permanent solution, such as guardianship or adoption, is necessary.

Throughout this process, the involvement of a skilled dependency attorney is essential to ensure that parents' rights are protected and that the case can move toward reunification rather than the termination of parental rights.

Legal Help in Dependency and Reunification Cases

Our lawyer advocates for parents throughout the dependency process, working to secure results that will support family preservation while providing for the best interests of the child. He can assist parents with:

• Understanding and Responding to Allegations: Dependency cases may involve vague or unsubstantiated claims of abuse or neglect. Our attorney helps parents understand the nature of the allegations and respond to these charges effectively in court.
• Representation at Shelter and Adjudicatory Hearings: Early intervention is critical in a dependency case. Our lawyer will appear with parents during hearings and advocate for parental custody or placement with trusted relatives when removal cannot be avoided.
• Developing and Complying With Case Plans: To reunify with their children, parents may need to meet specific court-ordered requirements. Our attorney can help parents understand their case plans, obtain the necessary services, and document their progress to show the court they are taking the proper steps.
• Advocating for Visitation Rights: Maintaining contact during dependency proceedings is crucial for both the parent and the child. Our lawyer will work to ensure that visitation will be granted and that parents and children can maintain contact while a case is pending.
• Challenging Unlawful or Unfair Actions: In some cases, the state may overreach or fail to offer reasonable services to support reunification. Our attorney can file motions or present evidence to challenge unjust findings or seek modifications to case plans and court orders.
• Fighting Termination of Parental Rights: If the state seeks to permanently terminate a parent's rights, our lawyer will provide aggressive legal defense. He will present evidence of parental progress and argue for the continued opportunity to reunify.

Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Dependency Attorney

Dependency cases can have immediate and long-lasting effects on a family. At The Hoffman Firm, our attorney works closely with clients to develop strategies that will highlight their strengths, address the court's concerns, and keep the focus on family reunification. Contact our Fort Lauderdale, FL dependency defense lawyer at 954-524-4474 to schedule a free consultation.