A CPS investigation happens when someone reports that a child or youth may have been abused or neglected. A DCYF caseworker looks into the situation to find out what happened, whether the child or youth is currently safe, and if there’s a risk of future harm. The caseworker talks with the child, youth, parents, caregivers, and other people who may have helpful information. The goal is to understand the facts and make sure children and youth are protected.

Why am I Receiving an Investigation?

• DCYF received a report with concerns about the safety of children and youth in your home.
• The report met the legal definition of abuse and neglect (RCW 26.44.020).
• The report showed the allegations were moderately high or high risk or that there may be immediate danger to your child or youth.
• DCYF wants to work with you to keep your child or youth safe.

What to Expect from an Investigation

• DCYF’s goal is to keep families together whenever it’s safe to do so. The caseworker will work with you to find ways to keep your child/youth safe at home if possible.
• You and your child/youth should be treated fairly and with respect throughout the process.
• A DCYF caseworker will visit your home so they can better understand your situation.
• You will be interviewed as part of the investigation. This includes parents, guardians, or anyone named in the report.
• Children or youth may also be interviewed and photographed as part of the investigation. This can happen without your permission, as allowed by law. Children and youth have the right to ask for a trusted adult to be with them during their interview. You can ask your caseworker who would qualify as a "trusted adult."
• The DCYF caseworker will gather information by reviewing records and speaking with people who know your child, youth, or family like teachers, doctors, or relatives.
• Different experts may need to work together to support your child or youth’s safety and well-being. This could include local police and child advocacy centers, etc.
• Support services may be offered to help your family stay safe and healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions about CPS Investigations

What is child abuse and neglect?

Learn the definition of child abuse and neglect and how to recognize signs.

How do I find out who my caseworker is?

Contact your local child welfare office to find out how to get in touch with your child's caseworker.

What is expected of me during this time?

• Partner with the caseworker and give them names and contact information for people who can provide more information. In some cases, written consent may be required. The more information the caseworker has, the better they can make a decision.
• Keep the caseworker updated on any changes, such as a new address, phone number, or new person living in your home.
• Attend all scheduled meetings about your case for your children or youth.
• DCYF caseworkers are available to help you. Make sure to ask questions about the process and what steps you can take. You can also ask about available resources. In some counties, parent advocates can support you during the investigation.

What does “founded” and “unfounded” mean?

After an investigation, DCYF will decide whether the concern is founded or unfounded.

Founded means that there was enough information to believe that abuse or neglect likely happened. Unfounded means that there was not enough information to prove that abuse or neglect happened.

How will I be told about the finding?

You may be informed in person, on the phone, or via email. A letter will also be sent to your home address. If the finding is founded, the letter will include instructions on how to appeal. You have 30 days from when you get the letter to send in your appeal.

If you move, make sure your caseworker knows your new address so you don’t miss important mail.

How can a founded finding affect me?

Founded findings can be used in certain situations:

• As evidence in court cases about your children.
• When deciding if you can work, volunteer, or get a license to care for children

or vulnerable adults.

• As background information if there are future reports.

A Certificate of Parental Improvement (CPI) removes a barrier for individuals with a founded finding of child abuse or neglect when they apply to work in an assisted living facility or nursing home, provide long-term care services, or seek unsupervised access under a DCYF program.

What Is “Protective Custody?”

When it appears that a child is in danger of being harmed, or has already been abused or neglected, a police officer can place the child in protective custody. Custody of the child is transferred to CPS which places the child with a relative, suitable other, or in foster care.

By law, a child can be kept in protective custody for no more than 72 hours, excluding weekends and legal holidays. If the child is not returned to the parents or some other voluntary arrangement is made within 72 hours, the court must review the situation.

Who do I contact if I have questions or concerns about my case?

For questions or concerns about your case, first reach out to your assigned caseworker or their supervisor.

DCYF Constituent Relations responds to questions, concerns or complaints about DCYF services including Child Protective Services (CPS), Child and Family Welfare Services (CFWS), Family Reconciliation Services (FRS), Adoption Services, and Foster Care.

Office of the Family and Children's Ombudsman (OFCO) investigates complaints about state agency actions or inaction that involve:

• Any child at risk of abuse, neglect, or other harm.
• A child or parent involved with child protection or child welfare services.

OFCO helps with issues when a state agency's action or inaction is unauthorized or unreasonable.

How do I request my records?

Visit our Request Public Records webpage.