What To Expect in a Child & Family Well‑Being (CFWB) Investigation

What CFWB Does

Child & Family Well‑Being (CFWB), formerly known as “CPS,” is the county agency responsible for child safety. Reports can range and often involve alleged physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, or neglect. A non‑offending parent can be investigated for “failure to protect.”

Not every report becomes a case. CFWB screens reports and decides whether to investigate.

How Investigations Typically Proceed

• Child interview: Social workers often speak with the child at school, away from caregivers. The child should be asked if they want another adult present; that request should be honored. If the child does not feel comfortable speaking with a social worker, they cannot be forced to do so.
• Collateral contacts: CFWB may speak with the reporting party, witnesses, police, school staff, and medical providers.
• Parent contact: Social workers commonly arrive without notice. You are not required to speak without counsel. You may request that your attorney be present and schedule a time to talk.
• Safety plans: CFWB may propose a “safety plan” that temporarily sets rules for custody and visitation while the investigation is open.

Most investigations conclude in roughly 30 days with one of three findings:

• Substantiated: CFWB believes abuse or neglect occurred.
• Inconclusive: CFWB cannot determine whether it occurred.
• Unfounded: CFWB does not believe it occurred.

Outcomes and What They Mean

• If substantiated:
  • CFWB may file a Juvenile Court petition and, at times, remove a child with limited notice of the first hearing. Immediate legal representation is important.
  • CFWB may offer “voluntary services” instead of court. Despite the label, these services can be intrusive and lengthy. Review terms with counsel before agreeing.
• CACI listing:
  • If a case is substantiated and no Juvenile Court case is filed, CFWB may submit your name to the Child Abuse Central Index. This can appear in background checks.
  • You usually have 30 days to request a grievance hearing to challenge the listing.
• Inconclusive findings:
  • CFWB generally does not file a petition but may suggest services.
  • Other courts (Family or Guardianship) may still reference the finding. Context from counsel can be helpful.
• Unfounded findings:
  • Should not carry consequences, but misunderstandings can linger. If issues arise, an attorney can help correct the record.

Practical Steps During an Investigation

• Respond, but don’t rush. Acknowledge contact and let CFWB know you will speak after consulting your attorney.
• Do not sign a safety plan or services agreement before a legal review.
• Keep records of all communications and documents.
• If a hearing is scheduled or your child is removed, seek representation immediately.

When To Contact an Attorney

• You receive a call, letter, or home visit from CFWB
• A social worker asks to interview you or your child
• You’re presented with a safety plan or “voluntary services”