DCS Visit?

[Erica Henry]

When DCS comes to your house for the first time what all hapens? Do you get drug tested the first time they come?

[524]

It varies pretty widely. Some people are never drug tested, because drugs aren't part of the issue. Some are tested by the caseworker, and others are referred to professional drug testing sites. (Keep in mind that you don't have to do a drug test unless it's court-ordered.)

They will ask to see the house, especially the kitchen/food prep area and the child's room. They'll be looking for basic cleanliness and safety, for the child to have his own sleeping space and storage for his possessions, and sometimes they check to see that there's food in the house.

You can find out more about CPS/DCS, and about your rights as a parent, at http://www.familyrights.us/ .

EDIT: Has DCS taken you to court yet? You'd know if they have. Until then, they have no legal authority to force you to take a drug test, or even to come into your home without a warrant signed by a judge (except possibly in an emergency). Disclaimer: I'm not a lawyer, so don't take this as legal advice.

If your DCS investigation is just beginning, please go to the website above ASAP, and learn as much as you can as fast as you can. If you're on Facebook you can go to their page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyrights/ and ask for some guidance on dealing with DCF. Don't wait until your kids are gone, start learning about your rights immediately.

[Erica Henry]

How do you know if it's court ordered?