Dispositional Hearings of CPS Investigation in Michigan
Review and Dispositional Hearing: If the judge found you guilty or you pled guilty, your case worker will derive a plan of action. You can ask questions or raise disputes about the plan during your dispositional hearing. Once a plan is settled on, you must follow it if you want to get your children back.
If you’ve been accused of committing a drug crime, it’s important to contact a defense attorney as soon as possible. The range of penalties for drug crimes varies greatly depending on the details of your case. A good attorney could mean the difference between clearing your name and receiving a life sentence. The more time your lawyer has to look over the details of your case and prepare a defense, the better your chances are at receiving a just outcome.
If you or someone you love is currently under investigation, don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and call Grabel & Associates today. Our team of attorneys has been working in criminal defense in Michigan for over 15 years. Our experience and knowledge of Michigan law set us apart from other defense firms. If you want Michigan’s brightest legal time fighting on your behalf, pick up the phone and dial our toll-free hotline right now.
CPS Investigations During Drug Crime Cases in Michigan
Child Protective Services, or CPS, works to shield children from harm by investigating abuse and neglect claims. Mandated reporters and other concerned citizens can make a call to CPS and a caseworker will begin looking into the claims within 24 hours. If CPS finds out that you’re being investigated for drug crimes, they will most likely conduct an investigation to ensure your child or children were not harmed or are not in danger of being harmed. Typically, a CPS investigation begins with a knock at your front door. Your lawyer will inform you of your legal rights beforehand, so you’ll be prepared for their visit.
When CPS comes to your home, it’s important that you are respectful and courteous. The worker handling your case is a professional and will respond better to you if you treat them as such. It’s also wise to prepare for the worst outcome. Compiling a list of family and friends that would be willing to temporarily house your children is a good way to protect your kids from the potential trauma of being removed from your home and placed with a complete stranger. Your lawyer will walk you through what to expect throughout the course of the investigation, so you have a fair shot at receiving the best available results.
Hearings in CPS Cases in Michigan
After the CPS investigation has been wrapped up, the hearings will begin taking place. Your case will proceed as follows:
- Preliminary Hearing: If your children have been removed from your home, a hearing will take place within 72 hours. During this hearing, your lawyer will solidify CPS’s story. If you don’t have an attorney yet, try to say as little as possible about the details of your case.
- Plea Hearing: You will receive a petition that outlines what you have been accused of. You can ask questions about the petition during this hearing and you will decide what plea you want to enter.
- Adjudication Hearing: This hearing is similar to a trial. A judge will hear evidence from both parties and determine if there is enough information to determine your guilt or innocence.
- Review and Permanency Hearings: Every six months, the judge will check in on your case to see how you are progressing. If you’re following the plan, they may decide to place your child or children in your care again.
Mixed Up in a Drug Crime and CPS
If you were mixed up in a drug crime and CPS is coming after your children, it’s crucial that you hire skilled legal representation as soon as possible. Your lawyer will be by your side throughout the entire course of your case, advising you and building a strong defense. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better he or she will be able to serve you.
Contact Us Now for a Free Consultation
To obtain the services of an experienced defense lawyer, call 1-800-342-7896. Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take your call.