Dependency

Question 1

What kinds of criminal history records checks must be conducted when considering placement of a child?

Answer 1

DCF must conduct a records check of local and statewide criminal history records on all persons, including parents, being considered by the department for placement of a child. This includes all nonrelative placement decisions, and all members of the household 12 years of age and older of the person being considered.

Question 2

What standard of proof is necessary to rebut a presumption of detriment to the child?

Answer 2

Clear and convincing evidence.

Question 3

How long may a child be held in a shelter without an adjudication of dependency?

Answer 3

Not longer than 60 days.

Question 4

What if DCF can’t find a parent?

Answer 4

• If location is unknown, DCF has an obligationt o conduct a diligent search before scheduling a disposition hearing, UNLESS the courts finds that the best interests of the child require proceeding without such notice.