Before You Sign Anything, Stop and Read This

When the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) is involved in your life, one of the first things they may do is present you with paperwork to sign. It might be called a “service plan,” “safety agreement,” or “release of information,” and it might be described as “just standard paperwork.”

But here’s the truth: anything you sign can impact your rights, your custody case, and even your future in family court. Once your signature is on the page, it’s much harder to undo the consequences.

Step 1: Take a Deep Breath — and Don’t Rush

DCF workers may tell you the document is routine or that signing is required to “cooperate.” But you are not required to sign on the spot unless there’s a specific court order requiring it.

Once you sign, you may be agreeing to terms that could:

• Waive certain rights

• Allow DCF to access personal or confidential information

• Affect custody or visitation arrangements

Step 2: Ask for a Copy to Review

You have the right to read and understand every word before you sign. Politely say:

“I’d like to review this carefully before signing. May I have a copy?”

Taking the document home gives you time to think, ask questions, and get legal advice.

Step 3: Do Not Sign Without Knowing What It Means

Before you agree to anything, ask:

• What is this document for?

• Is it legally binding?

• What happens if I don’t sign it?

Common DCF documents include:

• Service Plans: May outline steps you must take; could be voluntary or court-ordered.

• Safety Agreements: May set limits on your contact with your child or require supervision.

• Releases of Information: Allow DCF to get school, medical, or other private records.

Step 4: Consult a Lawyer First

Say this clearly:

“I’d like to speak with my attorney before I sign anything.”

Even if you don’t have a lawyer yet, do not sign until you do. A family defense attorney can explain:

• What the document means

• Whether signing is in your best interest

• What changes, if any, can be negotiated

At The Christie Law Firm, we regularly review DCF paperwork for parents so they understand exactly what they’re agreeing to — before it affects their case.

Step 5: Document the Interaction

Keep detailed notes about:

• The name of the DCF worker

• The date and time of the meeting

• What was said and what they asked you to sign

These notes can be crucial for your attorney to understand the full picture of your case.

Final Thoughts

Signing something “just to cooperate” can:

• Waive your rights

• Allow DCF access to personal information

• Affect court outcomes

You are allowed to ask questions. You are allowed to say “not right now.” You are allowed to protect your family — and we are here to help you do that.

Call us now at (860) 461 7494 or submit a form on our website