What to Do if CPS is Investigating You During Your DUI Case

Driving under the influence charges are extremely serious, especially if your child or children are in the car at the time of the offense. You could potentially face a DUI as well as child endangerment charges, making it difficult to return to normal life after your case has been wrapped up. If you want to protect your family from the life-altering penalties that may result from a little mistake, hire a CPS defense attorney as soon as possible. We understand that misunderstandings happen and will do everything in our power to protect your parental rights.

Ten Ways to Successfully Battle CPS in Michigan

While you do not have control over the charges a prosecutor brings against you, there are ways you can affect the outcome of your case. Following these ten tips will put you on track to receive your desired outcome.

1. Take accusations and investigations seriously.
   If you have been accused of driving drunk with a child in the car and CPS has begun to look into your case, do not assume that they will uncover the truth. It is up to you to take the charged seriously and hire a skilled defense attorney who will help you achieve a just outcome.
2. Do your research – learn about the charges you are facing.
   If a CPS worker shows up at your front door, do your best to learn what charges you are up against. The more details you have about what they believe you have done, the better you will be able to fight back. After you know what you’ve been accused of, doo some research to learn about how to prove your innocence and navigate the early stage of your case.
3. Hire a skilled CPS attorney.
   One of the first things you should do in your criminal case is reach out to a lawyer that has experience working on cases that are similar to your own. A good attorney can mean the difference between proving your innocence and suffering unjustly. The Grabel & Associates team has been working on DUI cases and cases involving CPS for over 17 years, and our attorneys are ready to put their knowledge to work in your case.
4. Let your lawyer do the talking.
   When you partner with a lawyer, he or she will stand as a shield between you and the people investigating your case. You do not have to speak with CPS workers or police if you do not want to. The less you say, the easier it is for your lawyer to craft your defense.
5. Be courteous and respectful.
   When a CPS agent shows up at your door unannounced, it can be difficult to remain calm, but losing your cool will only damage your case. The more courteous and polite you can be, the better your chances are of receiving a favorable outcome.
6. Fight for your legal rights.
   While it is important to be polite to the workers handling your case, you do not need to let them push you around. You lawyer will help you understand what your legal rights are and will fight to ensure they are upheld. For example, you do not need to let police, prosecutors, or CPS workers into your home unless they have a warrant. If someone tries to gain access to your house, simply ask to see their warrant. If they cannot produce one, request that they come back at a later date with the proper documents in order.
7. Keep a record of all interactions with caseworkers.
   It is your right to record conversations with CPS workers for your lawyer and the court to review later. This will ensure the CPS worker does not misunderstand or twist your words. It also protects your children if a CPS worker asks to speak with them alone.
8. Compile a list of family and friends that are willing to help.
   Your family and friends can be some of your best assets in your DUI case. Whether it is providing a character witness or offering a temporary home for your child or children while CPS sorts through the details of your case, your network is invaluable.
9. Have a trusted healthcare professional examine your child.
   If you have been accused of physically harming your child, have a doctor that you trust examine him or her and write up a report. This information will protect you from exaggerated details and help the prosecutor, judge, and jury keep the details straight.
10. Never admit guilt.
    The prosecutor handling your case may try to convince you that it is in your best interest to take a plea bargain, regardless of the details of your case. Your attorney will protect you from unwise legal decisions and make sure you receive the best results available.

Contact Us

If you need help combating wrongful DUI charges or CPS investigations, call 1-800-342-7896 or contact us online. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to starting building a strong defense for you.