Child Protection Law in Michigan and DUI
DUI laws in Michigan prescribe severe punishments for those found guilty of driving under the influence. If you are under investigation, it is crucial to connect with a skilled CPS attorney as soon as possible. DUI cases are especially tricky if they involve children, and even more so if the parent is under the age of 21. If you are underage and you are caught driving after a few sips of wine with your child in the car, you could face serious criminal penalties and a CPS investigation. Drunk driving with children may result in child abuse or neglect charges, on top of DUI charges. To avoid life-altering consequences, contact Grabel & Associates. We will do everything in our power to prove your innocence and protect you from overzealous police and prosecutors that are working to demonstrate your guilt.
What Is CPS Related?
Child Protective Services (CPS) is a state government agency whose purpose is to protect children that cannot protect themselves. CPS workers’ investigation looks at child abuse and neglect to determine if the child is safe in his or her home. If the CPS worker deems the child’s living situation is unsafe, he or she may file a petition to have the child removed from his or her home. A CPS investigation typically includes the following:
- A visit to the child’s home.
- Interviews with the alleged victim and perpetrator.
- Interviews with family, friends and neighbors that may have important information.
- A thorough review of relevant case documents.
- An assessment of the child’s safety, future risk, and the family’s needs and strengths.
The CPS worker handling the case will look for alternative explanations for the allegations and consider who is making the claim when evaluating the gathered information. After the investigation, the case will be placed into one of five categories. The case’s placement will determine what action needs to be taken.
Throughout your CPS investigation, it is important to be aware of your legal rights. For example, you do not have to let a CPS worker inside your home unless he or she has a warrant. You can also politely refuse to speak with caseworkers when your lawyer is not present. Do your best to be informed and make wise legal decisions to set yourself up to receive a favorable outcome.
What Are Mandated Reporters?
Michigan’s Child Protection Law requires certain individuals to report any sign of child abuse or neglect. Some mandated reporters include teachers, health care providers, and other caregivers. While most of these individuals try their best to provide accurate information, some of their facts may be skewed or simply untrue. Hiring an experienced attorney to combat unjust reports is a good way to protect yourself and your family. Do not leave your future in the hands of a CPS worker. Call Michigan’s leading defense firm today to learn about how we can help you be successful in your CPS investigation and DUI case.
DUI Charges Involving CPS in Michigan
We pride ourselves on offering a holistic approach to criminal defense. If you are facing a DUI in Michigan and you are a parent, we will work to combat CPS investigations and try to avoid them entirely if possible. We will conduct our own investigation to ensure all of the facts are straight and explore every legal option to put you on track to receiving your desired case outcome.
If you have been charged with driving under the influence in Michigan, pick up the phone and contact us today. It is never too early to start fighting back, especially when your children are involved.
Contact Us for 24/7
A member of our staff can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Dial 1-800-342-7896 to get connected with a skilled case analyst who will provide you with a free initial case consultation. If you choose to partner with us, you will be paired with a member of our legal team that has extensive experience working on cases similar to your own. We will thoroughly review all of the unique details of your case to determine the best course of action and craft a custom approach to your defense. When your future is on the line, do not settle for a second-rate attorney. Call Grabel & Associates now!