1. Stay Calm and Get Basic Information First

Your tone and behavior matter. Take a breath before responding. You can ask:

• What is your name and role at DCF?

• What is the purpose of the call?

• Is this an investigation or another type of response?

• Are you planning a home visit?

• Will you be speaking with my child?

You do not need to give a long explanation immediately, especially if you are unsure what the allegation is.

2. Write Everything Down Immediately

As soon as the call ends, document:

• Date and time of the call

• Name and contact information of the DCF worker

• What they said the concerns were (if they told you)

• Any deadlines or next steps they mentioned

• Whether they requested an interview or home visit

This helps you stay organized and gives your attorney a clear timeline.

3. Call a DCF-Experienced Attorney Right Away

One of the most important things you can do in the first 24 hours is speak with an attorney who understands Connecticut DCF cases. Legal counsel can help you:

• Understand your rights and responsibilities

• Prepare for interviews or home visits

• Avoid statements that could be misunderstood

• Communicate with DCF strategically

DCF investigations can move quickly, and early legal support can reduce risk and confusion.

4. Find Out if a Home Visit Is Coming (and How Soon)

DCF may visit your home as part of the process. Some visits can happen with little notice, depending on the situation.

If DCF plans to visit, ask:

• When are you coming?

• Who will be attending?

• What is the purpose of the visit?

Before allowing entry or agreeing to interviews, it is smart to speak with an attorney first.

5. Understand Your Rights Before You Agree to Anything

Parents often feel pressured to cooperate immediately, but it’s important to understand that you have rights during the DCF process.

DCF’s official process includes investigating allegations and determining whether concerns are substantiated or not.

A lawyer can help you respond appropriately while protecting your family.

What DCF May Do During the Investigation

Depending on the case, DCF may:

• Interview parents or guardians

• Interview the child (sometimes separately)

• Contact teachers, doctors, or other caregivers

• Inspect parts of the home

• Request records or releases

DCF investigations in Connecticut are generally completed within 45 days unless extended.

What NOT to Do in the First 24 Hours

Even if you feel innocent or the report is false, avoid these common mistakes:

• Do not panic and overshare details during the first call

• Do not argue aggressively with the caseworker

• Do not post about the situation on social media

• Do not sign documents or releases without legal advice

• Do not try to coach your child on what to say

If you are unsure how to respond to a question, it is okay to say you want to speak with an attorney first.

What Happens After the First 24 Hours

After DCF gathers information, the report may be classified as substantiated or unsubstantiated (among other possible outcomes).

Even if DCF closes the case, the way you handle the first 24 hours can affect:

• Whether the situation escalates

• Whether court becomes involved

• Whether you face long-term consequences

Final Thoughts: Focus on Safety, Strategy, and Legal Protection

A DCF call is serious, but it does not automatically mean the worst outcome will happen. The best thing you can do in the first 24 hours is stay calm, document everything, and get legal guidance early.

If you’ve been contacted by Connecticut DCF and you’re unsure what to do next, speaking with a qualified attorney can help protect your rights and your family’s future. Call us today at (860) 461 7494

References

• Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) – Child Abuse Investigation Process