Clarksville DCS & CPS Investigation Attorneys
Tennessee Department of Children Service Laws
Being accused of abuse, neglect or abandonment can result in an investigation by the Tennessee Department of Children Services (DCS). Not only could an investigation can result in your child being taken away from you, but you may also face criminal charges for your alleged actions. Due to the seriousness of this kind of situation, you need to hire an attorney who has experience in both family law and criminal defense matters.
At Jeff Grimes & Associates, PLLC, we provide compassionate and effective legal solutions for clients who are being investigated by DCS and those interested in seeking guardianship of minor children. Our legal team can conduct our own investigation, collect supporting evidence, negotiate with the courts, and help you get the best possible outcome in your case.
Call us today at (931) 398-5308 to schedule a free case evaluation.
Child Abuse and Neglect Investigations
When there is a report of child abuse or neglect, Child Protective Services (CPS) is mandated by Tennessee law to investigate the situation. The child and alleged abuser – as well parents and other witnesses – are interviewed separately. The initial phases of an investigation also include observations of the child’s home environment and either a medical examination of the child’s condition or treatment to a child’s injuries. After the initial phases of investigation are complete, the investigator will give an preliminary assessment made in the P1, P2, or P3 status:
- P1 - the child is in immediate danger and needs to be removed.
- P2 - the child should be removed within 24 hours
- P3 - the child should be removed within 48 hours
Parents can cooperate with the DCS investigation and give investigators access to the premises. However, failure to comply can lead to court-ordered compliance with the assistance of local police.
What is the DCS Investigation Process in Tennessee?
If the DCS determines the child has been abused or neglected, or in need of treatment or rehabilitation, the child will be taken into DCS custody. Furthermore, if a parent receives an “allegation indicated” letter (i.e. alleged abuse has occurred, but no abuser has been identified) or “perpetrator indicated” letter, he/she can file an appeal – in writing – with the local DCS office.
Within 30 days of an investigation, DCS will schedule a home visit and a family team meeting, which includes the parents and DCS representatives. The team must create a permanency plan, which consists of steps the parents must take to regain custody and approved by the court.
Successfully following the permanency plan and judicial approval will result in the release of a child from DSC to the parents. On the other hand, if the parents fail to comply with the plan, then a judge can seek to terminate their parental rights.
Jeff Grimes & Associates, PLLC Child Services Legal Counsel
DCS investigations can be emotionally overwhelming, which is why it is important to have a knowledgeable and skilled legal advocate on your side throughout each step. Our firm can guide you through the complexities of the investigation process while protecting your rights and best interests. We are ready to help you immediately.
For more information about our legal services, contact us today.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
Reviews & Testimonials
At Jeff Grimes & Associates, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"They exceeded my expectations and got me everything I needed."
I hired their law firm for a legal case and not only were they highly professional but always courteous and respectful. They exceeded my expectations and got me everything I needed. If I ever need legal services again I will definitely be choosing them in the future.
- Lisa S. -
"HONEST, LOYAL, AND DEDICATED this firm gets 5 stars."
If you need legal counsel then I highly recommend you make an appointment with this firm. Mr. Sensing was my attorney and is very dedicated to his clients going to great lengths to provide the very best defense possible. Stays in touch with his clients always bringing them up to speed on what is being done in their case providing copies of everything to the client. HONEST, LOYAL, AND DEDICATED this firm gets 5 stars.
- Brad H. -
"I can honestly say I was not disappointed."
I took a trip out to TN and got in to some trouble in Clarksville and needed representation for a case while I was I back in my home state. I went to Grimes, Sensing & Clemons feeling distraught and like I had no hope, seeking a solid defense attorney that would actually fight for my case and get me the best possible deal. I left feeling comfortable and confident. I can honestly say I was not disappointed, the only time I needed to come back to TN was for the sentencing(mind you cases may differ) and unbelievably Jeffery Grimes was able to pull a rabbit out of a hat and get a felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor as well as talk down the court fines... I strongly suggest Jeffery Grimes as your defense attorney for any legal issues you may have, also their fees are very reasonable and they will do payment plans. Thank you very much Grimes, Sensing and Clemons.
- Spence W. -
"Thank you for helping me I know it’s your job but the peace of mind you gave me is priceless."
Thank you so much Grimes, Sensing & Clemons PLLC!! I've been working with them for months and I couldn't be happier. Grimes helped with all of the little details I didn't even know I needed. He is always friendly and ready to answer all of my questions. Your attention to my case has allowed me to focus on what's important to me, healing and family. Thank you for helping me I know it’s your job but the peace of mind you gave me is priceless. Thanks again! ~ YC
- Satisfied Client -
"The outcome for my request was better than I could have hoped for."
I hired Mr Sensing to assist me with the modification of a parenting plan that just wasn’t working anymore. I hired another lawyer in the Clarksville area that did not do their due diligence. Mr Sensing and his team were great throughout the process. Emails and phone calls were actually returned in a timely manner! Which wasn’t the case with the lawyer I used before. I had access to all my court documents and was always kept informed on what was going on with my case. Lastly Mr Sensing is very experienced and knowledgeable in his field. The outcome for my request was better than I could have hoped for, and I honestly feel like that was due to Mr Sensing.
- Toni M. -
"Best defense lawyer you could ask for."
Grimes is the best defense lawyer you could ask for. He was able to take what would generally be a felony for sure and get it down to a misdemeanor and a fine. If you have him as your lawyer, you won't have anything to worry about.
- Dennis H. -
"Very professional and fairly priced!"
Mr.Grimes made my case go very smoothly and easily for me I was out of state for a good part of it he went out of his way to let me know if something changed and he was always very professional and fairly priced! I would recommend him a thousand times over!!
- David L. -
"Fought with me the whole 2 years my case took for me to get the time with my son I’ve always wanted."
Mr. Sensing is an excellent attorney. He fought with me the whole 2 years my case took for me to get the time with my son I’ve always wanted. I will definitely recommend his services to anyone and I will be going back to him if I have any issues in the future. Also Pat and Amy are awesome!!
- Satisfied Client