Reasons Why CPS Can Investigate You During a DUI

If you are under investigation for driving under the influence, CPS (Child Protective Services) may conduct an investigation to determine if you are a fit guardian. Many know that CPS investigates child abuse and neglect charges, but few understand how broad of terms “abuse” and “neglect” are. One small misunderstanding could result in severe, life-altering consequences if a CPS investigation goes wrong. If you are under investigation, or suspect you will be, reaching out to a CPS defense attorney is the first step in fighting back. Being proactive in your case will minimize the damage that wrongful accusations can cause, protecting you and your family.

A good lawyer will stand by your side throughout every stage of the investigation, serving as a buffer between you, your family, and the CPS agent handling your case. It can be traumatizing to a child to have a stranger show up at the front door and ask them questions. Your attorney will shield your family from invasive investigation tactics and will strive to keep you together throughout the course of your case.

Understanding CPS’s Part in a DUI Case

If you have been caught driving under the influence, a prosecutor may enhance your sentence or you may face a separate charge of “child endangerment” on top of your DUI charge. The prosecutor does not have the power to remove your child from your custody, but if CPS conducts a separate investigation, they have the right to independently determine what is in the best interest of the child. CPS can investigate anyone accused of a criminal act that jeopardizes the health and wellbeing of a child. Driving under the influence is one of the leading causes of driving casualties; therefore CPS workers take DUI cases very seriously.

A CPS investigation typically includes a home visit, interviews with everyone involved, and a thorough review of the details of your case. The agent working on your case will look to answer the following questions:

• Is the home a safe environment for children?
• Is the defendant an alcoholic or drug addict?
• Is the child/children fed and cared for?
• Does the defendant drive drunk regularly?
• Is the defendant violent towards his/her child?

You attorney will prepare you before your meeting with CPS. Knowing what kinds of questions the social worker will ask and whom he or she will want to speak with beforehand will help you and your family put your best foot forward.

Battling Wrongful CPS Investigations

While CPS has saved many children from dangerous situations, there are times when they make mistakes and cause unwarranted stress and trauma on a family. The team at Grabel & Associates understands that misunderstandings can happen and is committed to protecting every client’s parental rights throughout every stage of their case.

If you are a parent under the age of 21, these kinds of cases can be especially tricky. With zero tolerance laws, you could potentially face a CPS investigation for having a few sips of alcohol at lunch. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to learn more about your options and set yourself up to receive a favorable outcome in your case.

Cases Involving CPS

The Grabel & Associates team is dedicated to doing everything in their power to ensure their clients receive the best available results. Our attorneys have been practicing law in Michigan for over 15 years and know what it takes to be successful in criminal cases and cases involving CPS. If you are facing drunk driving charges and are worried about the effects on your family, contact our firm as soon as possible. We will walk you through every step of your case to put you on track to a successful outcome.

Contact Us for Defense Against Wrongful CPS Investigations

A member of our staff can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via our online contact form or toll-free number. Simply dial 1-800-342-7896 to speak with a skilled case analyst who will provide you with a free initial case consultation. It is never too early to start defending the wellbeing of your family. Pick up the phone and call us right now.