Dss False Accusations Defense

Summary

Alicia, a South Carolina resident, is falsely accused by DSS of drug use. Her son, unhappy at his fathers home due to alleged mistreatment and constant arguing, prefers to live with her. Alicia has been advised she has the right to retain custody of her son. She is seeking legal assistance to navigate the situation, but struggles with affordability. She has been directed to South Carolina Legal Services and the South Carolina Bars Pro Bono Program for potential assistance.

Full Conversation

Dss showed up to my door yesterday and im being falsely accused.
What specific accusations have been made against you by the DSS?
Drugs
What state are you located in, Alicia? This will help me provide the most accurate information regarding your situation.
South carolina
What evidence has DSS presented against you?

In South Carolina, DSS investigates allegations of child abuse and neglect. If they find evidence, they may take legal action.
They just said they received a call saying there was drugs here and they was doinh a checkup on my oldest son.
What was the outcome of the DSS checkup on your son?

In South Carolina:
- DSS can conduct investigations based on reports.
- If no evidence is found, the case is usually dismissed.
He told them that he didnt want to go back to his dads house due to his stepmom
What is the age of your son and what specific issues does he have with his stepmom? In South Carolina, a child's preference may be considered in custody cases, depending on their age and maturity.
He is 8 years old and he told my husband and i and the dss lady that she mistreats him and that her and his dad argues all the time and hes not happy there and he would always take his * younger siblings to his room and shut the door so they wouldnt be around them arguing
What actions have you taken so far to address your son's concerns about his living situation with his father and stepmother?

In South Carolina:
- Child's best interest is paramount in custody decisions.
- Courts consider child's preference, if mature enough.
There was no court order and i talked to a lawyer and police and they told me i had every right to keep him. When he came to my house for weekly visit * weeks ago he was covered in flea bites and i kept him and im pretty sure they are the ones that called dss because hes living with us now.
What actions have you taken to address the flea bites and the drug accusations? In South Carolina, maintaining a safe, drug-free environment is crucial for child custody.
I'm waiting on caseworker to call me so i can mention the flea bites and the dss lady said i could get a lawyer to help me get through this and everything but i cant afford one.
Have you considered seeking help from a legal aid service or pro bono attorney in South Carolina? They often provide free or low-cost legal assistance to those who can't afford a lawyer.
I dont know who to call and the one i called said they dont handle dss accusations
Have you tried contacting South Carolina Legal Services? They offer free legal assistance to low-income individuals and may be able to help with your case. Their contact number is *-*-*-*.
Thats the number i called. And no i haven't. Do i need to say its a family matter?
Yes, mentioning it's a family matter can help direct you to the appropriate resources. Have you contacted the Family Court in your county in South Carolina?
I went to the court house today and they gave me the number you just gave
What was the outcome of your visit to the courthouse? Did they provide any additional information or resources?
No they didnt and they said to just call that number
Did you try reaching out to any other legal aid services or pro bono attorneys in South Carolina?
I dont know any
Have you considered reaching out to the South Carolina Bar's Pro Bono Program? They might be able to assist you. Their contact number is *-*-*.
Thank you and no
I recommend you contact the South Carolina Bar's Pro Bono Program at *-*-*. They may be able to provide free legal assistance.
Thank you
You're welcome, Alicia. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.
Thank you
You're welcome, Alicia. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need more help. Stay strong and best of luck with your case.
Have a great day
You too, Alicia. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need more help. Stay strong and best of luck with your case.
Could you provide me numbers to call again?
Sure, Alicia. Could you please confirm your current location so I can provide you with the contact details of the nearest court or legal aid service?
Pacolet sc
The nearest court to you in Pacolet, SC is the Spartanburg County Courthouse. Their contact number is (*) *-*.
I've Already contacted them
That's great, Alicia. Is there anything specific you need help with regarding your conversation with the Spartanburg County Courthouse?
Pro bono lawyers or free consultation lawyers
Are you looking for pro bono lawyers or free consultation lawyers for your ongoing case or a new legal issue?
Thanks
You're welcome, Alicia! If you have any more questions in the future, don't hesitate to ask. Stay safe!