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- 1). Prepare for the next home visit. DCFS social workers base their reports, in part, on home evaluations. Make sure your home is clean and safe for children. Set up a designated area for your children with beds for each child and a place for their clothing and toys. An improved DCFS evaluation can help your case.
- 2). Recruit witnesses who can testify in court on your behalf regarding your parenting abilities. Good expert witnesses are objective. For example, your children's teacher or your pediatrician are good expert witnesses.
- 3). Respond to the complaint filed by the DCFS attorney. In the complaint deny all false allegations. Some courts may assume that any allegation which is not denied is accepted.
- 4). Attend the first court hearing. Dress in business casual attire and speak respectfully to the judge and all court personnel. While it might be tempting to appear angry and frustrated when accused of being a bad parent, a good demeanor can only help your case by making you appear more sincere.
- 5). Comply with all court-ordered services. Courts are likely to further penalize you if you do not comply with all services. Your situation will only become worse if you are not in compliance.
- 6). Call the DCFS attorney. Ask the attorney if you can settle the case. Even if you do not take the settlement, talking to the attorney will help you understand what DCFS wants. A settlement can be in your interest when it allows you to keep your children in the home and get the services you need to become a better parent.
- 7). Prepare for trial. If you are not able to settle, prepare for trial. Write out what you want to say to the judge as your opening and prepare your witnesses by writing out the questions you want to ask them.
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