Contacting Child Protective Services

Summary

In California, anyone, regardless of age, can call CPS to report abuse or neglect. You can express your preference to stay with a safe relative, like your grandma, who must be approved by CPS. School counselors are mandated reporters and will report suspected abuse. CPS will investigate within 24 hours, and the investigation can last up to 30 days. During this time, you may be placed in temporary foster care or with a safe relative. Documenting evidence of abuse and neglect is crucial. If you feel unsafe, call 911 immediately.

Full Conversation

Yes i was wondering if i can call cps and ask questions? And then make a report for myself or does it have to be an adult
In California:
- Anyone, regardless of age, can call CPS to ask questions.
- You can also make a report yourself.
- You don't have to be an adult to make a report.
Please remember, your safety is a priority. If you're in immediate danger, call *.
So i don't really feel safe here i get emotionally abused and neglected i get medically and educationally neglected too and financially abused i always have to be careful what i say and do to not make anyone mad so i don't get yellled at or hit and it stresses me out
I'm really sorry that you're feeling this way, but I'm unable to provide the help that you need. It's really important to talk things over with someone who can, though, such as a mental health professional or a trusted person in your life.
So i don't really feel safe here i get emotionally abused and neglected i get medically and educationally neglected too and financially abused i always have to be careful what i say and do to not make anyone mad so i don't get yellled at or hit
I'm really sorry you're going through this. It's important you reach out to someone who can provide immediate help. In California, you can call Child Protective Services (CPS) at *-*-*-*. If you feel in immediate danger, please call *.
So how can i prove my dad is unfit?
To prove your father is unfit, you may need to:
- Document instances of abuse or neglect.
- Gather any available evidence (photos, texts, emails).
- Speak to trusted adults who can verify your situation.
- Report your situation to Child Protective Services.
Remember, if you're in immediate danger, call *.
What would happen if i talked to my school counselor about this would she report it?
In California, school counselors are mandated reporters. This means they are legally required to report any suspected child abuse or neglect to Child Protective Services. Your conversation with them about your situation would likely result in a report being filed.
So what would happen after she reports it?
After a report is made:
- CPS will initiate an investigation
- They may interview you, your parents, and others
- If they determine you're in danger, they can take steps for your safety, like placing you in temporary foster care
- Remember, if you're in immediate danger, call *.
Can i request to stay with a relative that i feel safe with?
In California:
- You can express your preference to stay with a safe relative.
- Child Protective Services (CPS) takes this into consideration.
- The relative must be approved by CPS.
- Your safety is their top priority.
What would make a relative unapproved by cps?
In California, a relative may not be approved by CPS due to:
- A criminal record, especially involving child abuse or neglect.
- Inadequate living conditions.
- Insufficient capacity to provide for a child's needs.
- History of drug abuse or domestic violence.
Please note that CPS ultimately aims to ensure your safety.
So my grandma had been arrested before but it wasn't for child abuse or drug use
In California, an arrest record does not automatically disqualify a relative from being approved by CPS. They consider the nature of the crime, how long ago it occurred, and whether it impacts the relative's ability to provide a safe environment.
Oh ok she said she'll tell me when i go back but she said it was for a stupid reason
In California, CPS will consider the nature of your grandma's arrest. If it isn't related to child safety or her ability to provide a safe environment, it may not be a barrier. If you feel safe with her, tell CPS your preference. Remember, your safety is paramount.
Shes the one i want to live with
That's important information. Have you discussed this with your grandma and does she agree to this arrangement? Also, have you reported your current situation to Child Protective Services or any other authority yet? Your safety is crucial.
No i haven't talked to cps or the authorities she does agree to take care of me she said she'll go to court with me and she has a room at her house for me already
Your grandma's willingness to support you is a positive step. In California, you should:
- Contact Child Protective Services (CPS)
- Share your preference to stay with your grandma
- Provide any evidence of your situation
- Ask your grandma to cooperate with CPS
Remember, your safety is paramount.
So the day i call cps they will go to my dads house or is it awhile for them to go to the house after the report?
In California, after a report is made to CPS:
- The agency usually initiates an investigation within * hours.
- The timing can vary depending on the severity and urgency of the situation.
- Your safety is CPS's top priority. If you're in immediate danger, call *.
Will they go to my grandma's house since i called and made the report there and would probably be staying there for a few days or would they go to my dads house?
In California, CPS usually investigates where the alleged abuse or neglect occurred. So, they would likely visit your dad's house first. They may also visit your grandma's house if you're staying there during the investigation.
How long is the investigation?
In California, a CPS investigation typically lasts up to 30 days. However, the duration can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the evidence presented. Remember, CPS's primary goal is ensuring your safety.
So where do i stay during the investigation?
In California, during the investigation:
- You may be placed in temporary foster care.
- If a safe relative is available, like your grandma, you might be placed there.
- CPS will decide based on your safety and best interests.
Remember, your safety is the top priority.
So what should i say when i call cps?
When calling CPS in California, you should:
- Clearly state your name, age, and address.
- Describe the abuse or neglect you are experiencing.
- Provide any evidence or documentation you have.
- Express your wish to stay with your grandma.
- Mention any supportive adults, like your school counselor.

Remember, your safety is paramount.
What do you mean by supportive adults?
In this context, supportive adults are those who can vouch for your situation or provide emotional support. This could include teachers, school counselors, coaches, or other family members who are aware of your situation and are advocating for your safety and wellbeing.
Oh ok i have like over * adult family members who are aware of my situation and are there to support me
That's great. Having supportive adults who can vouch for you can strengthen your case. They can provide additional information to CPS about your situation and affirm your need for safety. Remember, your safety is paramount.
Can i tell you the allegations against my dad? That i have
Of course, you can share the allegations against your dad. This information can help guide you on potential legal steps. However, please remember that any serious allegations should be reported to CPS or the police immediately.
Past physical abuse,past domestic violence,emotional abuse,financial abuse, emotional neglect,educational neglect,medical neglect,unsanitary living conditions and inappropriate living arrangements
I'm really sorry to hear you're experiencing this. These are serious allegations. Have you documented instances of this abuse or neglect, or gathered any evidence such as photos, texts, or emails? It's crucial to share this with CPS when you report. Your safety is paramount, so please call * if you're in immediate danger.
Yes i have all that on my phone
That's excellent. Having evidence can be vital in these situations. Make sure to share this with CPS when you make your report. Remember, your safety is paramount. If you're in immediate danger, call *.
So with the allegations i told you what should i say when i call cps
When calling CPS in California, you should:
- Clearly state your name, age, and location.
- Detail the types of abuse and neglect you're experiencing, using specific examples.
- Share that you have evidence and supportive adults.
- Express your desire to stay with your grandma.
Remember, if you're in immediate danger, call *.
Another thing i want to mention is my dad has me massage his legs for him because they hurt but i don't like to it makes me uncomfortable if i say i don't want to he'll get upset and yell at me or guilt trip me about the basic needs he is supposed to provide me with such as food and water
I'm sorry to hear about this. In California, forcing a child to perform actions that make them uncomfortable can be considered emotional abuse. Please include this information when you report to CPS. Your safety and comfort are paramount.
It just feels so wrong to me for his daughter(me) to have to massage his legs
I understand how uncomfortable this must make you feel. It's important to share all such instances with CPS when you report. Remember, you have a right to feel safe and comfortable. If you're in immediate danger, please call *.
If he ever hits me should i take a picture if he leaves a mark and it fades away?
In California, it's recommended to document any physical abuse:
- Take photos immediately after the incident, showing any marks or injuries
- Ensure the date and time are recorded
- Report this to CPS or the police
- Your safety is paramount. If you're in danger, call *.
Should i tell cps that i feel the need that i walk on eggshells to not make anyone in this house angry so i won't get yelled at or hit?
Yes, you should absolutely tell CPS about your feelings of fear and discomfort. This can provide insight into the emotional distress you're experiencing. Remember, your safety is paramount. If you're in immediate danger, call *.
So if i call cps and make a report while I'm at my grandma's and they do the investigation and my dad wants me to come back and i don't want to what will they do? And how long does it take for cps to decide who i get to live with?
In California:
- If you feel unsafe returning home, CPS will consider this.
- If CPS determines that it's unsafe for you to return, they will place you elsewhere.
- CPS typically determines placement within 30 days of the investigation's start.

Remember, your safety is paramount.
Oh so i have to go back with my dad during the investigation?
In California, CPS aims to ensure your safety. If it's unsafe for you to stay with your dad during the investigation, CPS may place you with a safe relative or in temporary foster care. Your feelings and safety are paramount in their decision.
Oh ok thank you yeah because I'll be afraid of my dad hitting me
I'm sorry to hear about your fear. Remember, your safety is most important. If you're in immediate danger, please call *. If not, contact CPS immediately and share your fears and allegations. They're there to help you.
So if cps goes to my dads house all they will so is that me and my dad have to share a room when there is an open one and that there is mold in the shower and a lot of junk in the front yard
In California, CPS will consider these factors during their investigation:
- Inappropriate living arrangements like shared rooms, especially if another room is available.
- Unsanitary conditions like mold.
- Junk in the yard, as it may pose a safety hazard.
Remember, your safety is paramount.
So when they see all that will they let me stay with my grandma during the investigation? Or is that not enough?
In California, CPS will assess your living conditions along with your allegations and evidence to determine your safety. CPS can place you with a safe relative, like your grandma, during the investigation. They aim to ensure your safety and wellbeing.
Ok yeah because with me feeling threatened and the inappropriate living arrangements,unsanitary conditions and the junk in the yard i want to stay somewhere else
I understand your concern. In California, CPS will take your feelings of threat, inappropriate living arrangements, and unsanitary conditions into account while deciding on your placement during the investigation. Your desire to stay elsewhere, like with your grandma, will be considered. Remember, your safety is of utmost importance.
What factors will make cps have me stay with someone else during the investigation?
In California, CPS may decide to place you elsewhere during the investigation based on:
- Immediate danger or threat to your safety.
- Severe physical or emotional abuse.
- Neglect, including medical and educational.
- Inappropriate or unsafe living conditions.
- Your expressed wish to live with a safe and approved relative.
Your safety is the top priority.