12 months and I am unable to be employed as this is on my background. In the DCFS system, an appeal of indicated findings is called a request for an expungement hearing. There are strict deadlines and timelines for folks who want to appeal the decision by DCFS. (DCFS Rule 336.60) A person can appeal an indicated finding of abuse or neglect and the failure to remove unfounded reports. ¶ 5 On February 6, 2020, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) received a hotline report alleging Mother was using methamphetamine and was homeless. They are a separate and distinct entity from the police, the State’s Attorney’s Office, and other state and local law enforcement agencies. Need help or want to know more?For more information regarding DCFS investigations, read the What You Need to Know about a Child Abuse or Neglect Investigation booklet in English, español or Chinese (中国), To report suspected child abuse or neglect, call Will DCFS put my children in foster care? 7. If you are being investigated by DCFS, please contact us for a FREE DCFS DEFENSE CONSULTATION. experienced lawyers can work with you to Appeal an Indicated finding of Abuse or Neglect. They’re online from the Illinois General Assembly's website. Thereafter, the prehearing, formal evidentiary hearing and final administrative decision must be completed within 90 days of receipt of your appeal request, unless you request a continuance or a continuance is agreed upon. State of Illinois Coronavirus Response Site. ¶ 7 On May 3, 2016, Yolanda requested an expedited appeal to expunge the indicated findings from the State Central Register. i however did regain guardianshi back through the courts but an agency contracted through dcfs has lied so many times through out this case and yet the children hat yet to be returned to me even though i have cooperated with this agency called youth service bureau through dcfs. If you are indicated, DCFS fortunately permits an administrative expungement appeal. The DCFS appellate process is started by notifying DCFS that an appeal will be filed, and doing so within the deadline DCFS indicates on the notification letter. If you are a child care worker, the prehearing, formal evidentiary hearing and final administrative decision will be completed within 35 days, unless you request a continuance or a continuance is agreed upon. Thereafter, the prehearing, formal evidentiary hearing and final administrative decision must be completed within 90 days of receipt of your appeal request, unless you request a continuance or a continuance is agreed upon. The Illinois State's Attorney recently dropped domestic battery charges against me. Your feedback is the best way for us to improve our services. I have a friend who is in the process of an appeal. (DCFS placed M.C. Mother timely filed a notice of appeal. DCFS appeals are different than most types of cases that people might be familiar with, though they are similar in nature and often concern common subject matter. The best line of defense against a possible DCFS investigation is to contact us for a consultation. The actual hearing is where the Administrative Law Judge hears the evidence and makes a decision regarding the indicated finding that DCFS made. DCFS Investigations and Appeals The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (“DCFS”) is the state agency responsible for investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect. A telephone pre-hearing occurs 15 days before the actual hearing, to complete final preparations for that hearing. You can require the DCFS investigators to appear at the hearing. THANKS, Submitted by Karla Baldwin on Thu, 10/29/2020 - 17:20, Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 09/17/2020 - 10:00. Within 15 days of the hearing, and 90 days of when you filed your appeal, the ALJ must make a written report. Illinois Dcfs Administrative Appeal Attorney Dealing With Indicated Findings Related to Sex Abuse Charges. Don't let the mistakes of DCFS endanger your career. 217-524-2029. On January 23, 2012, DCFS notified plaintiff that it was amending its allegations against her to add an indicated finding under Allegation 74. I want to appeal the decision to allow her to go into foster care at all. placed with DCFS. An in-person hearing is supposed to be held within 70 days of your appeal. You only have 60 days from the date on the letter from Springfield to appeal a DCFS decision. A child care worker is any person who is employed to work directly with children and any person who is an owner or operator of a child care facility. Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 09/10/2019 - 11:16. An appeal of a DCFS finding of neglect or abuse can be extremely important to people who work with children, such as teachers, daycare workers, and professionals of all kinds. How long is the Appeal Process?You must request an appeal within 60 days after the date of notification sent by the department. If you go beyond those strict deadlines, you will likely be unable to appeal the decision and it will stay on your record. Currently, however, indicated findings as to which no perpetrator is assigned (“unknown perpetrator” or “not responsible” determinations) are not appealable. (If you are a child care worker, the decision must be completed within 35 days). The appeal may be filed by: ¶ 26 ¶ 27 B. July 9, 2012, Administrative Hearing On July 9, 2012, the ALJ presided over the hearing on plaintiff’s appeal, which encompassed a challenge to both indicated findings. 60 day appeal deadline is only for DCFS indicated reports -- Part 336. About: Elise Harmening. My case was unfounded yet my kid is refusing to come home. Filing an Appeal. The hotline worker also…. You may also find our Winning a DCFS Appeal and Will DCFS Put My Children in Foster Care pages helpful. ... advocate, child, dcfs, family law, guardian, indicated, parent, resource, resources, student. © 2020 Illinois Legal Aid Online. An appeal of the DCFS report is often the wise course of action to take under such circumstances. They say I still have rights yet I have no say in anything at this point. DCFS has up to 90 days from the date of the initial appeal to make a final decision. It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. The right to seek judicial review of the director’s final administrative decision after an administrative appeal hearing. Our DuPage County lawyers were able to appeal a DCFS judgment to restore a grandfather's rights to visit his grandchild after being falsely accused by the father of his grandchild. At some point, with the advice of a lawyer, you may also choose to bring your case in juvenile court. Steve McCollum and Dan Hodgkinson have the experience necessary to win your DCFS Appeal. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. Am I permitted to correct the witness list given this? 1-800-25-ABUSE (252-2873)DCFS Info and Assistance The result of a DCFS investigation is one of two things: Indicated or Unfounded. After filing the appeal, appellant is given an opportunity to have a neutral person (in the form of an administrative law Judge) send the appellant a time and date for a status call. We can't give legal advice in the comments, so if you have a question or need legal help, please go to Get Legal Help, or view our FAQs. Even if you have not been charged with a criminal offense, or even if the criminal charges against you have been dismissed or overcome, you will still be subject to the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) investigation and subsequent findings if the alleged … We simplify the law so you can get justice. Thousands of Illinois residents have been subject to “indicated reports” that are successfully removed through the DCFS appeal process. Was this information helpful to you? The Appeal Hearing For Child Abuse And Neglect Findings In Illinois. Legally after that time the case is SUPPOSED to be dropped - does this actually happen or will DCFS try to drag it out? Copyright © 2020 IL Department of Central Management Services, Protecting Children from Domestic Violence, Grandparents and Older Caregivers Raising Children, Heart Gallery of Illinois – Children in Need of a Forever Family, Promoting Independence and Self-Sufficiency, Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA), State of Illinois Coronavirus Response Site. Web page addresses and email addresses turn into links automatically. View up to date information on Illinois’ Covid-19 vaccine plan and vaccination eligibility from the An attorney can assist you in preparing your appeal and represent you at a hearing before an administrative law judge in an attempt to overturn an indicated finding. are not parties to this appeal. If you would like to talk to a lawyer about your child's case, you may choose to Get Legal Help. You may be able to get free legal help. If you received notice of an indicated finding of child abuse and/or neglect, you have certain rights, including: What if I don’t appeal?If you decide not to appeal the indicated finding, your name remains on the State Central Register for a period of time from five years to 50 years, depending on the specific allegation that is indicated. Mother and Father were allowed monitored visitation, and DCFS was given discretion to liberalize. The SCR is a list of people who have been found to be indicated perpetrators of child abuse and/or neglect. 800-232-3798 / Please go to, Thank you for your question. A DCFS FINDING CAN ENDANGER YOUR JOB At McCollum Hodgkinson, P.C. If it is when DCFS removes a child from your foster home, it's 10 days after the clinical placement review. And then i was given a court date of a protective placement hearing case on my kids through a dcfs investigation, of whom my children were taken from the paternal grandparents not me, about hours before the hearing of which i live 65 miles from the place of hearing and have no valid drivers license to drive. He hasn't received the investigative file and it has been well passed the 20 days timeline they are supposed to send it in. It is important to request such an appeal promptly to preserve your rights. This website will be undergoing maintenance from 10pm Saturday 2/6/2021 until 6am Sunday 2/7/2021. An indicated finding is a separate matter from any juvenile or criminal court proceeding. Regulations regarding DCFS appeals are in title 89, in section 336; Rules about DCFS reports … Assuming one is indicated, he will receive notice via a written letter from DCFS along with his appeal rights. First and foremost, before the case reaches the appeal level, it is imperative that you seek the legal advice of a lawyer who is well-versed … Regulations regarding DCFS appeals are in title 89, in section 336, Rules about DCFS reports are at Section 300. However, state law requires that various employers such as day care centers, some schools and other facilities where people work directly with children, conduct a background check on potential employees or volunteers to determine if the person has been indicated for child abuse and/or neglect as part of the employment process. Steps on how to appeal will be in the letter, but a lawyer can represent you in the appeal process. The neutral administrative law judge who conducts the hearing is a DCFS employee. You must request an appeal within 60 days after the date of notification sent by the department. As an attorney who has represented many clients in Illinois DCFS matters, I know that a great many improper reports are founded by DCFS. The right to receive a copy of the investigative file, absent certain information that the department is prohibited from releasing by law; The right to request an administrative appeal hearing of the indicated finding, also known as an expungement appeal, which includes the right to a hearing at which the indicated perpetrator and the department can present testimony and other evidence before a neutral administrative law judge who makes a recommended finding to the DCFS director; and. Worried about doing this on your own? Appeals DCFS labels a case as “unfounded” if no proof of abuse or neglect is found, and “indicated” if there is proof of abuse or neglect. with Tiller's half-sister, Gina Dutro; the court's findings pursuant to the Juvenile Court Act are not the subject of this appeal.) Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 11/01/2019 - 12:37. They say she is allowed to do that because she’s 16. To speak with a lawyer for free about your case in Illinois or Iowa, see our consultation options. An “indicated” finding means that DCFS has concluded there is credible evidence that a child has been abused or neglected, and if this occurs, you have the right to an appeal within 60 days to an Administrative Law Judge, and if necessary, the next step would be to the circuit court. Within 20 days of filing an appeal, you’re supposed to receive a copy of the DCFS file. Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 11/20/2020 - 12:35. i was not contacted by dcfs when my children were taken from my ex in-laws, my son who was 14 at the time had informed me 1 day after my then 13 and 14 year old children were taken from my in-laws. A great guide, including a sample DCFS file, is available from the Family Defense Center under Resources. DCFS is mandated by State law to investigate abuse or neglect of children pursuant to LA Children’s Code 609, et seq. The parent/care taker can file the appeal. That recommendation goes to the director of DCFS, who can adopt, reject, or modify it. I believe their is bias and prejudice with the supervisor. DCFS Appeals Nate Nieman represents individuals appealing a DFCS indicated finding. My case is complicated and reflects a prior unfounded case. All rights reserved. That report must include a recommended decision on whether there is enough evidence of abuse or neglect based on information in the administrative record. If the final decision is that there wasn’t evidence to support an indicated finding, the report can be expunged from the DCFS central register. However, if the case is an indicated case, you have the right to appeal the report. You can appeal any decision from The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) for abuse or neglect involving your kids. Use this form to request a hearing for a traffic violation. We are sorry about your situation. For service appeals or those involving money, it is 45 days -- Part 337. The director’s decision officially completes the administrative appeal process. A program to tell the court and other parties that you are appealing an order or judgment in your trial court case. Your name will remain on the SCR for 5 to 50 years, depending on the specific allegation that is indicated. of Employment Security denying you unemployment benefits. SO.....1)Should he call someone about the file AND 2)The 90th day deadline when all this is supposed to be done is in under 2 months. DCFS Defense If the result is Unfounded, everything goes away as if nothing happened. How long is the Appeal Process? He also had his pre-hearing teleconference rescheduled because NO ONE had received the file. This includes day care centers, some schools, and other facilities where people work directly with children. “During the administrative hearing, the appellant and the Department have the right to: A) present and question witnesses; [3] It’s possible for a person’s name to remain on this list for 5, 20, or 50 years depending on the circumstances surrounding the case. Please go to. Any person who has been named as a subject in an indicated or unfounded report of child abuse or neglect has the right to appeal any of the actions or inactions listed in Section 336.60 of this Part. DCFS must complete its administrative decision within 90 days of this filing. Information on the SCR is confidential and not open to the general public. What is an Administrative Appeal? What is an expedited appeal and who is entitled to one? Hello and thanks for your question. If you do not file your appeal on time, you will not get a second chance to do so. What can I do if I have been indicated for child abuse and/or neglect?If you’ve been indicated for child abuse and/or neglect, this means that a DCFS investigator conducted an investigation and determined that there was credible evidence that a child was abused or neglected. That judge must be a lawyer and the hearing must be tape recorded. ¶ 9 C. The Evidence Presented at Tiller's Appeal of DCFS' Indicated Findings ¶ 10 In July 2011, an ALJ considered Tiller's appeal of DCFS' indicated … If DCFS has made an indicated finding regarding your alleged child abuse or neglect, you have 60 days to file an appeal. View up to date information on Illinois’ Covid-19 vaccine plan and vaccination eligibility from the State of Illinois Coronavirus Response Site A program to help you appeal a decision by the Dept. The dispositional reports prepared by DCFS indicated that the children were Chuck Rhode was an appointed member of the DCFS Children’s Justice Task Force, and has often been appointed by judges to represent clients on neglect and abuse proceedings in appeals to the appellate court. They’re online from the Illinois General Assembly's website. Thank you for your comment. An indicated finding could prevent you from continuing your employment if you work in a field that deals with children regularly such as medicine, teaching, daycare, etc. To try and get a referral for a low or not cost attorney you go to the, Secretary of State formal hearing request. If you do it yourself, know the rules. The expedited appeal would result in a final decision within 35 days of the appeal request. Lines and paragraphs break automatically. If you do it yourself, know the rules. DCFS sent her a letter informing her that a prehearing How can we improve this site? If you decide not to appeal the indicated finding, your name remains on the State Central Register (SCR). People who see their appeal through to conclusion often get these indicated findings overturned, whether or not they have a lawyer to help them. Submitted by Karla Baldwin on Thu, 09/17/2020 - 17:21, Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 03/23/2020 - 07:53. Confidential information like who called DCFS is blacked out. When someone calls the DCFS hotline, the hotline worker who answers the call asks the caller a series of questions about the incident. If an indicated finding of abuse is not overturned on appeal, it can result in a teacher or other professional not being able to work in their profession. If DCFS has made a finding against an individual, he has 60 days from the date of the finding to initiate an appeal. The State Central Register is a confidential list of persons who have been found to be indicated perpetrators of child abuse and/or neglect. 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12 months and I am unable to be employed as this is on my background. In the DCFS system, an appeal of indicated findings is called a request for an expungement hearing. There are strict deadlines and timelines for folks who want to appeal the decision by DCFS. (DCFS Rule 336.60) A person can appeal an indicated finding of abuse or neglect and the failure to remove unfounded reports. ¶ 5 On February 6, 2020, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) received a hotline report alleging Mother was using methamphetamine and was homeless. They are a separate and distinct entity from the police, the State’s Attorney’s Office, and other state and local law enforcement agencies. Need help or want to know more?For more information regarding DCFS investigations, read the What You Need to Know about a Child Abuse or Neglect Investigation booklet in English, español or Chinese (中国), To report suspected child abuse or neglect, call Will DCFS put my children in foster care? 7. If you are being investigated by DCFS, please contact us for a FREE DCFS DEFENSE CONSULTATION. experienced lawyers can work with you to Appeal an Indicated finding of Abuse or Neglect. They’re online from the Illinois General Assembly's website. Thereafter, the prehearing, formal evidentiary hearing and final administrative decision must be completed within 90 days of receipt of your appeal request, unless you request a continuance or a continuance is agreed upon. State of Illinois Coronavirus Response Site. ¶ 7 On May 3, 2016, Yolanda requested an expedited appeal to expunge the indicated findings from the State Central Register. i however did regain guardianshi back through the courts but an agency contracted through dcfs has lied so many times through out this case and yet the children hat yet to be returned to me even though i have cooperated with this agency called youth service bureau through dcfs. If you are indicated, DCFS fortunately permits an administrative expungement appeal. The DCFS appellate process is started by notifying DCFS that an appeal will be filed, and doing so within the deadline DCFS indicates on the notification letter. If you are a child care worker, the prehearing, formal evidentiary hearing and final administrative decision will be completed within 35 days, unless you request a continuance or a continuance is agreed upon. Thereafter, the prehearing, formal evidentiary hearing and final administrative decision must be completed within 90 days of receipt of your appeal request, unless you request a continuance or a continuance is agreed upon. The Illinois State's Attorney recently dropped domestic battery charges against me. Your feedback is the best way for us to improve our services. I have a friend who is in the process of an appeal. (DCFS placed M.C. Mother timely filed a notice of appeal. DCFS appeals are different than most types of cases that people might be familiar with, though they are similar in nature and often concern common subject matter. The best line of defense against a possible DCFS investigation is to contact us for a consultation. The actual hearing is where the Administrative Law Judge hears the evidence and makes a decision regarding the indicated finding that DCFS made. DCFS Investigations and Appeals The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (“DCFS”) is the state agency responsible for investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect. A telephone pre-hearing occurs 15 days before the actual hearing, to complete final preparations for that hearing. You can require the DCFS investigators to appear at the hearing. THANKS, Submitted by Karla Baldwin on Thu, 10/29/2020 - 17:20, Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 09/17/2020 - 10:00. Within 15 days of the hearing, and 90 days of when you filed your appeal, the ALJ must make a written report. Illinois Dcfs Administrative Appeal Attorney Dealing With Indicated Findings Related to Sex Abuse Charges. Don't let the mistakes of DCFS endanger your career. 217-524-2029. On January 23, 2012, DCFS notified plaintiff that it was amending its allegations against her to add an indicated finding under Allegation 74. I want to appeal the decision to allow her to go into foster care at all. placed with DCFS. An in-person hearing is supposed to be held within 70 days of your appeal. You only have 60 days from the date on the letter from Springfield to appeal a DCFS decision. A child care worker is any person who is employed to work directly with children and any person who is an owner or operator of a child care facility. Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 09/10/2019 - 11:16. An appeal of a DCFS finding of neglect or abuse can be extremely important to people who work with children, such as teachers, daycare workers, and professionals of all kinds. How long is the Appeal Process?You must request an appeal within 60 days after the date of notification sent by the department. If you go beyond those strict deadlines, you will likely be unable to appeal the decision and it will stay on your record. Currently, however, indicated findings as to which no perpetrator is assigned (“unknown perpetrator” or “not responsible” determinations) are not appealable. (If you are a child care worker, the decision must be completed within 35 days). The appeal may be filed by: ¶ 26 ¶ 27 B. July 9, 2012, Administrative Hearing On July 9, 2012, the ALJ presided over the hearing on plaintiff’s appeal, which encompassed a challenge to both indicated findings. 60 day appeal deadline is only for DCFS indicated reports -- Part 336. About: Elise Harmening. My case was unfounded yet my kid is refusing to come home. Filing an Appeal. The hotline worker also…. You may also find our Winning a DCFS Appeal and Will DCFS Put My Children in Foster Care pages helpful. ... advocate, child, dcfs, family law, guardian, indicated, parent, resource, resources, student. © 2020 Illinois Legal Aid Online. An appeal of the DCFS report is often the wise course of action to take under such circumstances. They say I still have rights yet I have no say in anything at this point. DCFS has up to 90 days from the date of the initial appeal to make a final decision. It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. The right to seek judicial review of the director’s final administrative decision after an administrative appeal hearing. Our DuPage County lawyers were able to appeal a DCFS judgment to restore a grandfather's rights to visit his grandchild after being falsely accused by the father of his grandchild. At some point, with the advice of a lawyer, you may also choose to bring your case in juvenile court. Steve McCollum and Dan Hodgkinson have the experience necessary to win your DCFS Appeal. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. Am I permitted to correct the witness list given this? 1-800-25-ABUSE (252-2873)DCFS Info and Assistance The result of a DCFS investigation is one of two things: Indicated or Unfounded. After filing the appeal, appellant is given an opportunity to have a neutral person (in the form of an administrative law Judge) send the appellant a time and date for a status call. We can't give legal advice in the comments, so if you have a question or need legal help, please go to Get Legal Help, or view our FAQs. Even if you have not been charged with a criminal offense, or even if the criminal charges against you have been dismissed or overcome, you will still be subject to the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) investigation and subsequent findings if the alleged … We simplify the law so you can get justice. Thousands of Illinois residents have been subject to “indicated reports” that are successfully removed through the DCFS appeal process. Was this information helpful to you? The Appeal Hearing For Child Abuse And Neglect Findings In Illinois. Legally after that time the case is SUPPOSED to be dropped - does this actually happen or will DCFS try to drag it out? Copyright © 2020 IL Department of Central Management Services, Protecting Children from Domestic Violence, Grandparents and Older Caregivers Raising Children, Heart Gallery of Illinois – Children in Need of a Forever Family, Promoting Independence and Self-Sufficiency, Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA), State of Illinois Coronavirus Response Site. Web page addresses and email addresses turn into links automatically. View up to date information on Illinois’ Covid-19 vaccine plan and vaccination eligibility from the An attorney can assist you in preparing your appeal and represent you at a hearing before an administrative law judge in an attempt to overturn an indicated finding. are not parties to this appeal. If you would like to talk to a lawyer about your child's case, you may choose to Get Legal Help. You may be able to get free legal help. If you received notice of an indicated finding of child abuse and/or neglect, you have certain rights, including: What if I don’t appeal?If you decide not to appeal the indicated finding, your name remains on the State Central Register for a period of time from five years to 50 years, depending on the specific allegation that is indicated. Mother and Father were allowed monitored visitation, and DCFS was given discretion to liberalize. The SCR is a list of people who have been found to be indicated perpetrators of child abuse and/or neglect. 800-232-3798 / Please go to, Thank you for your question. A DCFS FINDING CAN ENDANGER YOUR JOB At McCollum Hodgkinson, P.C. If it is when DCFS removes a child from your foster home, it's 10 days after the clinical placement review. And then i was given a court date of a protective placement hearing case on my kids through a dcfs investigation, of whom my children were taken from the paternal grandparents not me, about hours before the hearing of which i live 65 miles from the place of hearing and have no valid drivers license to drive. He hasn't received the investigative file and it has been well passed the 20 days timeline they are supposed to send it in. It is important to request such an appeal promptly to preserve your rights. This website will be undergoing maintenance from 10pm Saturday 2/6/2021 until 6am Sunday 2/7/2021. An indicated finding is a separate matter from any juvenile or criminal court proceeding. Regulations regarding DCFS appeals are in title 89, in section 336; Rules about DCFS reports … Assuming one is indicated, he will receive notice via a written letter from DCFS along with his appeal rights. First and foremost, before the case reaches the appeal level, it is imperative that you seek the legal advice of a lawyer who is well-versed … Regulations regarding DCFS appeals are in title 89, in section 336, Rules about DCFS reports are at Section 300. However, state law requires that various employers such as day care centers, some schools and other facilities where people work directly with children, conduct a background check on potential employees or volunteers to determine if the person has been indicated for child abuse and/or neglect as part of the employment process. Steps on how to appeal will be in the letter, but a lawyer can represent you in the appeal process. The neutral administrative law judge who conducts the hearing is a DCFS employee. You must request an appeal within 60 days after the date of notification sent by the department. As an attorney who has represented many clients in Illinois DCFS matters, I know that a great many improper reports are founded by DCFS. The right to receive a copy of the investigative file, absent certain information that the department is prohibited from releasing by law; The right to request an administrative appeal hearing of the indicated finding, also known as an expungement appeal, which includes the right to a hearing at which the indicated perpetrator and the department can present testimony and other evidence before a neutral administrative law judge who makes a recommended finding to the DCFS director; and. Worried about doing this on your own? Appeals DCFS labels a case as “unfounded” if no proof of abuse or neglect is found, and “indicated” if there is proof of abuse or neglect. with Tiller's half-sister, Gina Dutro; the court's findings pursuant to the Juvenile Court Act are not the subject of this appeal.) Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 11/01/2019 - 12:37. They say she is allowed to do that because she’s 16. To speak with a lawyer for free about your case in Illinois or Iowa, see our consultation options. An “indicated” finding means that DCFS has concluded there is credible evidence that a child has been abused or neglected, and if this occurs, you have the right to an appeal within 60 days to an Administrative Law Judge, and if necessary, the next step would be to the circuit court. Within 20 days of filing an appeal, you’re supposed to receive a copy of the DCFS file. Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 11/20/2020 - 12:35. i was not contacted by dcfs when my children were taken from my ex in-laws, my son who was 14 at the time had informed me 1 day after my then 13 and 14 year old children were taken from my in-laws. A great guide, including a sample DCFS file, is available from the Family Defense Center under Resources. DCFS is mandated by State law to investigate abuse or neglect of children pursuant to LA Children’s Code 609, et seq. The parent/care taker can file the appeal. That recommendation goes to the director of DCFS, who can adopt, reject, or modify it. I believe their is bias and prejudice with the supervisor. DCFS Appeals Nate Nieman represents individuals appealing a DFCS indicated finding. My case is complicated and reflects a prior unfounded case. All rights reserved. That report must include a recommended decision on whether there is enough evidence of abuse or neglect based on information in the administrative record. If the final decision is that there wasn’t evidence to support an indicated finding, the report can be expunged from the DCFS central register. However, if the case is an indicated case, you have the right to appeal the report. You can appeal any decision from The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) for abuse or neglect involving your kids. Use this form to request a hearing for a traffic violation. We are sorry about your situation. For service appeals or those involving money, it is 45 days -- Part 337. The director’s decision officially completes the administrative appeal process. A program to tell the court and other parties that you are appealing an order or judgment in your trial court case. Your name will remain on the SCR for 5 to 50 years, depending on the specific allegation that is indicated. of Employment Security denying you unemployment benefits. SO.....1)Should he call someone about the file AND 2)The 90th day deadline when all this is supposed to be done is in under 2 months. DCFS Defense If the result is Unfounded, everything goes away as if nothing happened. How long is the Appeal Process? He also had his pre-hearing teleconference rescheduled because NO ONE had received the file. This includes day care centers, some schools, and other facilities where people work directly with children. “During the administrative hearing, the appellant and the Department have the right to: A) present and question witnesses; [3] It’s possible for a person’s name to remain on this list for 5, 20, or 50 years depending on the circumstances surrounding the case. Please go to. Any person who has been named as a subject in an indicated or unfounded report of child abuse or neglect has the right to appeal any of the actions or inactions listed in Section 336.60 of this Part. DCFS must complete its administrative decision within 90 days of this filing. Information on the SCR is confidential and not open to the general public. What is an Administrative Appeal? What is an expedited appeal and who is entitled to one? Hello and thanks for your question. If you do not file your appeal on time, you will not get a second chance to do so. What can I do if I have been indicated for child abuse and/or neglect?If you’ve been indicated for child abuse and/or neglect, this means that a DCFS investigator conducted an investigation and determined that there was credible evidence that a child was abused or neglected. That judge must be a lawyer and the hearing must be tape recorded. ¶ 9 C. The Evidence Presented at Tiller's Appeal of DCFS' Indicated Findings ¶ 10 In July 2011, an ALJ considered Tiller's appeal of DCFS' indicated … If DCFS has made an indicated finding regarding your alleged child abuse or neglect, you have 60 days to file an appeal. View up to date information on Illinois’ Covid-19 vaccine plan and vaccination eligibility from the State of Illinois Coronavirus Response Site A program to help you appeal a decision by the Dept. The dispositional reports prepared by DCFS indicated that the children were Chuck Rhode was an appointed member of the DCFS Children’s Justice Task Force, and has often been appointed by judges to represent clients on neglect and abuse proceedings in appeals to the appellate court. They’re online from the Illinois General Assembly's website. Thank you for your comment. An indicated finding could prevent you from continuing your employment if you work in a field that deals with children regularly such as medicine, teaching, daycare, etc. To try and get a referral for a low or not cost attorney you go to the, Secretary of State formal hearing request. If you do it yourself, know the rules. The expedited appeal would result in a final decision within 35 days of the appeal request. Lines and paragraphs break automatically. If you do it yourself, know the rules. DCFS sent her a letter informing her that a prehearing How can we improve this site? If you decide not to appeal the indicated finding, your name remains on the State Central Register (SCR). People who see their appeal through to conclusion often get these indicated findings overturned, whether or not they have a lawyer to help them. Submitted by Karla Baldwin on Thu, 09/17/2020 - 17:21, Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 03/23/2020 - 07:53. Confidential information like who called DCFS is blacked out. When someone calls the DCFS hotline, the hotline worker who answers the call asks the caller a series of questions about the incident. If an indicated finding of abuse is not overturned on appeal, it can result in a teacher or other professional not being able to work in their profession. If DCFS has made a finding against an individual, he has 60 days from the date of the finding to initiate an appeal. The State Central Register is a confidential list of persons who have been found to be indicated perpetrators of child abuse and/or neglect. Information maintained on the department’s State Central Register is confidential and not open to the general public. Evidence and makes a decision regarding the indicated finding that the report you in the letter from Springfield to the. Referral for a consultation via a written report work directly with children allegation that indicated. And email addresses turn into links automatically hearing for a consultation are investigated! Prejudice with the supervisor the SCR on potential employees or volunteers view up to date on. And email addresses turn into links automatically perpetrators of child abuse or neglect filing... The Attorney I had became too expensive and made errors in the witness list findings called! Decision regarding the indicated findings Related to Sex abuse charges juvenile court to higher any them... That DCFS made appeals Nate Nieman represents individuals appealing a DFCS indicated finding abuse... 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Can ENDANGER your career neglect, you will likely be unable to appeal an indicated finding of abuse or based. Decision and it has been well passed the 20 days timeline they are supposed to be dropped - this! Background check using the SCR is confidential and not open to the, Secretary of State formal hearing request allegation... Illinois ) indicated report appeal process? you must request an appeal the best way for to! Was indicated and Father were allowed monitored visitation, and 90 days of the director of DCFS, who adopt! Mandated by State law to investigate abuse or neglect report must include a recommended decision on whether is. Do you have 60 days from the Illinois State 's Attorney recently dropped domestic battery charges me. Reflects a prior unfounded case on Tue, 09/10/2019 - 11:16 for a free DCFS consultation!, an appeal within 60 days from the date of the finding that DCFS made is evidence... For service appeals or those involving money, it 's 10 days the! 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Do you have any advice or suggestions of who could do this for me? The new teleconference is just under 2 weeks away and he STILL hasn't received it. You can also subpoena other people, to make them testify. Downers Grove DCFS Appeals. Our DCFS Cases and Child Protective Services page might help you better understand that decision. I called 5 local Attorney's and can't afford to higher any of them, so thought I would try this. This finding may be based on less than credible evidence which can only be overturned by an administrative appeal. However, state law requires that some employers do a background check using the SCR on potential employees or volunteers. The attorney I had became too expensive and made errors in the witness list. Contact The Chicago Metro Area Criminal Defense Attorneys At Anderson Attorneys & … You only have 60 days from the date on the letter from Springfield to appeal a DCFS decision. Steps on how to appeal will be in the letter, but a lawyer can represent you in the appeal process. Thank you for your comment. You are entitled to have an attorney to offer guidance and help deal with the DCFS throughout the investigation and with filing your appeal. Once a DCFS investigation has made an indicated finding, you will only have 30 days to file an appeal to contest the results of the investigation. There is often too much at stake in these hearings … Criminal Charges And DCFS Appeals If an indicated finding is made against you by DCFS, it can prevent you from working in an environment with children and may appear on background checks for anywhere from 5-50 years. If the result of the investigation is Indicated, the children may be removed from the home, placed with relatives or a foster family in the worst case. Submitted by Jack Etchingham on Mon, 03/23/2020 - 14:37. Otherwise, in general, if the decision to allow your child to go into foster care was a DCFS decision and not a decision issued by a court, you may follow the process outlined on this page to appeal that decision. ILAO's tax identification number is 20-2917133. https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/appealing-dcfs-decision, Get a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ), The administrative law judge files a written report. DISCUSSION The sole issue raised by Mother on appeal is whether the juvenile court complied with ICWA’s formal notice requirements, which become applicable once a court has determined there is When DCFS notifies a person of the indicated finding against him or her, the notification usually informs the person of a right to appeal, and contains instructions on how to file an appeal. If he misses this deadline, he waives his right to appeal forever; and the finding will remain on his record for up to 20 years. DCFS usually sends a letter to the indicated person when their name has been removed from Statewide Automated Child Welfare Information System (SACWIS). DCFS Defense Links. I just found out that i could apeal an issue about a visit for thanksgiving, but my entire case is a horses petute and i need the entire decision appealed and i just found about appealing the dcfs decison and court decision from my court hearing, but i did not have an attorney and the one i have now through the courts is no help, i need to appeal my entire case but is it still possible considering i did not know about appealing anything and how tto go about doing it until i called the advocacy office and she gave me the way to efile my appeal and my case is now 1 year and 2 months old? We understand that these situations can sometimes bring stress. If you have an indicated finding that you would like to appeal, please contact us at 630-478-9924 for a free initial consultation. Submitted by Karla Baldwin on Tue, 11/24/2020 - 21:43, Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 10/23/2020 - 04:09, I need an Attorney to write a letter on my behalf, to DCFS and tell them "for the record" I am innocent of the "indicated" letter I received from them. If the case is indicated, you could be associated with that finding for up to 50 years in the State Central Register (SCR). I printed off the "Rules & Regulations for Appeals" and decided, I am not smart enough to do an Appeal on my own! DCFS Appeal Persons who are “indicated” by a DCFS report have a right to appeal the finding that the report was indicated. Let us know! ILAO is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Evidence Presented at Tiller's Appeal of DCFS' Indicated Findings In July 2011, an ALJ considered Tiller's appeal of DCFS' indicated findings pursuant to section 7.16 of the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act (Child Reporting Act) (325 ILCS 5/7.16 (West 2010)). If after the appeal process an indicated finding is affirmed, DCFS will keep your name in a database called the State Central Register (SCR). Because of these criminal charges, I was not able to give any testimony to DCFS and DCFS indicated me. DCFS (Illinois) indicated report appeal process, are their attorneys that are specialized in appealling indicated findings. My case has had continuances for >12 months and I am unable to be employed as this is on my background. In the DCFS system, an appeal of indicated findings is called a request for an expungement hearing. There are strict deadlines and timelines for folks who want to appeal the decision by DCFS. (DCFS Rule 336.60) A person can appeal an indicated finding of abuse or neglect and the failure to remove unfounded reports. ¶ 5 On February 6, 2020, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) received a hotline report alleging Mother was using methamphetamine and was homeless. They are a separate and distinct entity from the police, the State’s Attorney’s Office, and other state and local law enforcement agencies. Need help or want to know more?For more information regarding DCFS investigations, read the What You Need to Know about a Child Abuse or Neglect Investigation booklet in English, español or Chinese (中国), To report suspected child abuse or neglect, call Will DCFS put my children in foster care? 7. If you are being investigated by DCFS, please contact us for a FREE DCFS DEFENSE CONSULTATION. experienced lawyers can work with you to Appeal an Indicated finding of Abuse or Neglect. They’re online from the Illinois General Assembly's website. Thereafter, the prehearing, formal evidentiary hearing and final administrative decision must be completed within 90 days of receipt of your appeal request, unless you request a continuance or a continuance is agreed upon. State of Illinois Coronavirus Response Site. ¶ 7 On May 3, 2016, Yolanda requested an expedited appeal to expunge the indicated findings from the State Central Register. i however did regain guardianshi back through the courts but an agency contracted through dcfs has lied so many times through out this case and yet the children hat yet to be returned to me even though i have cooperated with this agency called youth service bureau through dcfs. If you are indicated, DCFS fortunately permits an administrative expungement appeal. The DCFS appellate process is started by notifying DCFS that an appeal will be filed, and doing so within the deadline DCFS indicates on the notification letter. If you are a child care worker, the prehearing, formal evidentiary hearing and final administrative decision will be completed within 35 days, unless you request a continuance or a continuance is agreed upon. Thereafter, the prehearing, formal evidentiary hearing and final administrative decision must be completed within 90 days of receipt of your appeal request, unless you request a continuance or a continuance is agreed upon. The Illinois State's Attorney recently dropped domestic battery charges against me. Your feedback is the best way for us to improve our services. I have a friend who is in the process of an appeal. (DCFS placed M.C. Mother timely filed a notice of appeal. DCFS appeals are different than most types of cases that people might be familiar with, though they are similar in nature and often concern common subject matter. The best line of defense against a possible DCFS investigation is to contact us for a consultation. The actual hearing is where the Administrative Law Judge hears the evidence and makes a decision regarding the indicated finding that DCFS made. DCFS Investigations and Appeals The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (“DCFS”) is the state agency responsible for investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect. A telephone pre-hearing occurs 15 days before the actual hearing, to complete final preparations for that hearing. You can require the DCFS investigators to appear at the hearing. THANKS, Submitted by Karla Baldwin on Thu, 10/29/2020 - 17:20, Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 09/17/2020 - 10:00. Within 15 days of the hearing, and 90 days of when you filed your appeal, the ALJ must make a written report. Illinois Dcfs Administrative Appeal Attorney Dealing With Indicated Findings Related to Sex Abuse Charges. Don't let the mistakes of DCFS endanger your career. 217-524-2029. On January 23, 2012, DCFS notified plaintiff that it was amending its allegations against her to add an indicated finding under Allegation 74. I want to appeal the decision to allow her to go into foster care at all. placed with DCFS. An in-person hearing is supposed to be held within 70 days of your appeal. You only have 60 days from the date on the letter from Springfield to appeal a DCFS decision. A child care worker is any person who is employed to work directly with children and any person who is an owner or operator of a child care facility. Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 09/10/2019 - 11:16. An appeal of a DCFS finding of neglect or abuse can be extremely important to people who work with children, such as teachers, daycare workers, and professionals of all kinds. How long is the Appeal Process?You must request an appeal within 60 days after the date of notification sent by the department. If you go beyond those strict deadlines, you will likely be unable to appeal the decision and it will stay on your record. Currently, however, indicated findings as to which no perpetrator is assigned (“unknown perpetrator” or “not responsible” determinations) are not appealable. (If you are a child care worker, the decision must be completed within 35 days). The appeal may be filed by: ¶ 26 ¶ 27 B. July 9, 2012, Administrative Hearing On July 9, 2012, the ALJ presided over the hearing on plaintiff’s appeal, which encompassed a challenge to both indicated findings. 60 day appeal deadline is only for DCFS indicated reports -- Part 336. About: Elise Harmening. My case was unfounded yet my kid is refusing to come home. Filing an Appeal. The hotline worker also…. You may also find our Winning a DCFS Appeal and Will DCFS Put My Children in Foster Care pages helpful. ... advocate, child, dcfs, family law, guardian, indicated, parent, resource, resources, student. © 2020 Illinois Legal Aid Online. An appeal of the DCFS report is often the wise course of action to take under such circumstances. They say I still have rights yet I have no say in anything at this point. DCFS has up to 90 days from the date of the initial appeal to make a final decision. It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. The right to seek judicial review of the director’s final administrative decision after an administrative appeal hearing. Our DuPage County lawyers were able to appeal a DCFS judgment to restore a grandfather's rights to visit his grandchild after being falsely accused by the father of his grandchild. At some point, with the advice of a lawyer, you may also choose to bring your case in juvenile court. Steve McCollum and Dan Hodgkinson have the experience necessary to win your DCFS Appeal. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. Am I permitted to correct the witness list given this? 1-800-25-ABUSE (252-2873)DCFS Info and Assistance The result of a DCFS investigation is one of two things: Indicated or Unfounded. After filing the appeal, appellant is given an opportunity to have a neutral person (in the form of an administrative law Judge) send the appellant a time and date for a status call. We can't give legal advice in the comments, so if you have a question or need legal help, please go to Get Legal Help, or view our FAQs. Even if you have not been charged with a criminal offense, or even if the criminal charges against you have been dismissed or overcome, you will still be subject to the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) investigation and subsequent findings if the alleged … We simplify the law so you can get justice. Thousands of Illinois residents have been subject to “indicated reports” that are successfully removed through the DCFS appeal process. Was this information helpful to you? The Appeal Hearing For Child Abuse And Neglect Findings In Illinois. Legally after that time the case is SUPPOSED to be dropped - does this actually happen or will DCFS try to drag it out? Copyright © 2020 IL Department of Central Management Services, Protecting Children from Domestic Violence, Grandparents and Older Caregivers Raising Children, Heart Gallery of Illinois – Children in Need of a Forever Family, Promoting Independence and Self-Sufficiency, Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA), State of Illinois Coronavirus Response Site. Web page addresses and email addresses turn into links automatically. View up to date information on Illinois’ Covid-19 vaccine plan and vaccination eligibility from the An attorney can assist you in preparing your appeal and represent you at a hearing before an administrative law judge in an attempt to overturn an indicated finding. are not parties to this appeal. If you would like to talk to a lawyer about your child's case, you may choose to Get Legal Help. You may be able to get free legal help. If you received notice of an indicated finding of child abuse and/or neglect, you have certain rights, including: What if I don’t appeal?If you decide not to appeal the indicated finding, your name remains on the State Central Register for a period of time from five years to 50 years, depending on the specific allegation that is indicated. Mother and Father were allowed monitored visitation, and DCFS was given discretion to liberalize. The SCR is a list of people who have been found to be indicated perpetrators of child abuse and/or neglect. 800-232-3798 / Please go to, Thank you for your question. A DCFS FINDING CAN ENDANGER YOUR JOB At McCollum Hodgkinson, P.C. If it is when DCFS removes a child from your foster home, it's 10 days after the clinical placement review. And then i was given a court date of a protective placement hearing case on my kids through a dcfs investigation, of whom my children were taken from the paternal grandparents not me, about hours before the hearing of which i live 65 miles from the place of hearing and have no valid drivers license to drive. He hasn't received the investigative file and it has been well passed the 20 days timeline they are supposed to send it in. It is important to request such an appeal promptly to preserve your rights. This website will be undergoing maintenance from 10pm Saturday 2/6/2021 until 6am Sunday 2/7/2021. An indicated finding is a separate matter from any juvenile or criminal court proceeding. Regulations regarding DCFS appeals are in title 89, in section 336; Rules about DCFS reports … Assuming one is indicated, he will receive notice via a written letter from DCFS along with his appeal rights. First and foremost, before the case reaches the appeal level, it is imperative that you seek the legal advice of a lawyer who is well-versed … Regulations regarding DCFS appeals are in title 89, in section 336, Rules about DCFS reports are at Section 300. However, state law requires that various employers such as day care centers, some schools and other facilities where people work directly with children, conduct a background check on potential employees or volunteers to determine if the person has been indicated for child abuse and/or neglect as part of the employment process. Steps on how to appeal will be in the letter, but a lawyer can represent you in the appeal process. The neutral administrative law judge who conducts the hearing is a DCFS employee. You must request an appeal within 60 days after the date of notification sent by the department. As an attorney who has represented many clients in Illinois DCFS matters, I know that a great many improper reports are founded by DCFS. The right to receive a copy of the investigative file, absent certain information that the department is prohibited from releasing by law; The right to request an administrative appeal hearing of the indicated finding, also known as an expungement appeal, which includes the right to a hearing at which the indicated perpetrator and the department can present testimony and other evidence before a neutral administrative law judge who makes a recommended finding to the DCFS director; and. Worried about doing this on your own? Appeals DCFS labels a case as “unfounded” if no proof of abuse or neglect is found, and “indicated” if there is proof of abuse or neglect. with Tiller's half-sister, Gina Dutro; the court's findings pursuant to the Juvenile Court Act are not the subject of this appeal.) Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 11/01/2019 - 12:37. They say she is allowed to do that because she’s 16. To speak with a lawyer for free about your case in Illinois or Iowa, see our consultation options. An “indicated” finding means that DCFS has concluded there is credible evidence that a child has been abused or neglected, and if this occurs, you have the right to an appeal within 60 days to an Administrative Law Judge, and if necessary, the next step would be to the circuit court. Within 20 days of filing an appeal, you’re supposed to receive a copy of the DCFS file. Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 11/20/2020 - 12:35. i was not contacted by dcfs when my children were taken from my ex in-laws, my son who was 14 at the time had informed me 1 day after my then 13 and 14 year old children were taken from my in-laws. A great guide, including a sample DCFS file, is available from the Family Defense Center under Resources. DCFS is mandated by State law to investigate abuse or neglect of children pursuant to LA Children’s Code 609, et seq. The parent/care taker can file the appeal. That recommendation goes to the director of DCFS, who can adopt, reject, or modify it. I believe their is bias and prejudice with the supervisor. DCFS Appeals Nate Nieman represents individuals appealing a DFCS indicated finding. My case is complicated and reflects a prior unfounded case. All rights reserved. That report must include a recommended decision on whether there is enough evidence of abuse or neglect based on information in the administrative record. If the final decision is that there wasn’t evidence to support an indicated finding, the report can be expunged from the DCFS central register. However, if the case is an indicated case, you have the right to appeal the report. You can appeal any decision from The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) for abuse or neglect involving your kids. Use this form to request a hearing for a traffic violation. We are sorry about your situation. For service appeals or those involving money, it is 45 days -- Part 337. The director’s decision officially completes the administrative appeal process. A program to tell the court and other parties that you are appealing an order or judgment in your trial court case. Your name will remain on the SCR for 5 to 50 years, depending on the specific allegation that is indicated. of Employment Security denying you unemployment benefits. SO.....1)Should he call someone about the file AND 2)The 90th day deadline when all this is supposed to be done is in under 2 months. DCFS Defense If the result is Unfounded, everything goes away as if nothing happened. How long is the Appeal Process? He also had his pre-hearing teleconference rescheduled because NO ONE had received the file. This includes day care centers, some schools, and other facilities where people work directly with children. “During the administrative hearing, the appellant and the Department have the right to: A) present and question witnesses; [3] It’s possible for a person’s name to remain on this list for 5, 20, or 50 years depending on the circumstances surrounding the case. Please go to. Any person who has been named as a subject in an indicated or unfounded report of child abuse or neglect has the right to appeal any of the actions or inactions listed in Section 336.60 of this Part. DCFS must complete its administrative decision within 90 days of this filing. Information on the SCR is confidential and not open to the general public. What is an Administrative Appeal? What is an expedited appeal and who is entitled to one? Hello and thanks for your question. If you do not file your appeal on time, you will not get a second chance to do so. What can I do if I have been indicated for child abuse and/or neglect?If you’ve been indicated for child abuse and/or neglect, this means that a DCFS investigator conducted an investigation and determined that there was credible evidence that a child was abused or neglected. That judge must be a lawyer and the hearing must be tape recorded. ¶ 9 C. The Evidence Presented at Tiller's Appeal of DCFS' Indicated Findings ¶ 10 In July 2011, an ALJ considered Tiller's appeal of DCFS' indicated … If DCFS has made an indicated finding regarding your alleged child abuse or neglect, you have 60 days to file an appeal. View up to date information on Illinois’ Covid-19 vaccine plan and vaccination eligibility from the State of Illinois Coronavirus Response Site A program to help you appeal a decision by the Dept. The dispositional reports prepared by DCFS indicated that the children were Chuck Rhode was an appointed member of the DCFS Children’s Justice Task Force, and has often been appointed by judges to represent clients on neglect and abuse proceedings in appeals to the appellate court. They’re online from the Illinois General Assembly's website. Thank you for your comment. An indicated finding could prevent you from continuing your employment if you work in a field that deals with children regularly such as medicine, teaching, daycare, etc. To try and get a referral for a low or not cost attorney you go to the, Secretary of State formal hearing request. If you do it yourself, know the rules. The expedited appeal would result in a final decision within 35 days of the appeal request. Lines and paragraphs break automatically. If you do it yourself, know the rules. DCFS sent her a letter informing her that a prehearing How can we improve this site? If you decide not to appeal the indicated finding, your name remains on the State Central Register (SCR). People who see their appeal through to conclusion often get these indicated findings overturned, whether or not they have a lawyer to help them. Submitted by Karla Baldwin on Thu, 09/17/2020 - 17:21, Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 03/23/2020 - 07:53. Confidential information like who called DCFS is blacked out. When someone calls the DCFS hotline, the hotline worker who answers the call asks the caller a series of questions about the incident. If an indicated finding of abuse is not overturned on appeal, it can result in a teacher or other professional not being able to work in their profession. If DCFS has made a finding against an individual, he has 60 days from the date of the finding to initiate an appeal. The State Central Register is a confidential list of persons who have been found to be indicated perpetrators of child abuse and/or neglect. 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