Delaware County Juvenile Dependency & Child Welfare Attorney
When your family becomes involved with the juvenile dependency or child welfare system, the experience can feel overwhelming, isolating, and frightening. At Chauncey Law, we understand the emotional weight parents carry when Children and Youth Services (CYS) intervenes or when the safety of a child is questioned. Our mission is to provide clear guidance, strong advocacy, and a steady presence during every stage of the legal process.
Juvenile dependency in Pennsylvania is designed to protect children who may be at risk of abuse, neglect, or unsafe conditions. But families often feel misunderstood, unheard, or unsupported as they navigate investigations, caseworkers, and court hearings. We stand beside you to ensure your rights are protected, your voice matters, and your family has the best possible chance at healing and reunification.
Comprehensive Juvenile Dependency Legal Services
Navigating the juvenile dependency system can be overwhelming and emotionally draining. We provide compassionate and skilled legal representation to ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are protected in Delaware County dependency court.
Legal Advice and Representation
Expert Guidance through every step of the juvenile dependency legal process in Pennsylvania, from initial CYS investigations to court hearings. We ensure you understand your rights and options at each state of dependency proceedings.
Family Reunification Advocacy
Working tirelessly to reunify families whenever it is safe and possible. We advocate for the best outcomes for children and parents, focusing on service plan completion and demonstrating progress toward creating a safe home environment.
Resource Connection & Support
Connecting families with necessary services and support networks in Delaware County to help meet court requirements. We coordinate with counseling services, parenting programs, and substance abuse treatment providers to improve your family’s situation.
Understanding the Pennsylvania Dependency Timeline
Dependency proceedings in Pennsylvania follow a structured legal timeline. Here’s what to expect at each stage of the process in Delaware County.
Reporting and Investigation
Initial Report
Shelter Care Hearing
Within 72 hours
Adjudication Hearing
Generally within 10 days
Disposition & Service Plan
After adjudication
Permanency Review Hearings
Every 3-6 months
Your Rights and Responsibilities in Dependency Court
As a parent or guardian involved in a juvenile dependency case in Delaware County, it’s important to understand your legal rights under Pennsylvania law and your obligations to the court.
Your Legal Rights
- The right to be notified of all dependency hearings
- The right to have an attorney represent you in court proceedings
- The right to present evidence and cross-examine CYS witnesses
- The right to participate in service plan development and modifications
- The right to visitation with your child (unless the court orders otherwise)
- The right to appeal court decisions to a higher Pennsylvania court.
Your Responsibilities
You also have responsibilities throughout the dependency process, including:
- Complying with all court orders and attending scheduled hearings
- Participating in required services such as counseling, parenting classes, or substance abuse treament
- Maintaining regular contact with your dependency attorney and CYS worker
- Demonstrating ongoing progress toward meeting the service plan goals
- Providing a safe and stable environment for your child upon reunification
We are hear to help you understand your rights and obligations under Pennsylvania dependency law, and to advocate on your behalf throughout the process.
How Chauncey Law Stands With You
At Chauncey Law, we bring a human-centered, compassionate, and strategic approach to juvenile dependency representation. We focus not just on the legal issues—but on the family behind them.
Skilled Legal Representation
We guide you through every stage of the dependency process: investigations, emergency removal, Shelter Care, adjudication, review hearings, and permanency planning.
Support Toward Reunification
Whenever safe and possible, our goal is to help families stay together. We work closely with you to ensure you have access to the services, community resources, and supports necessary to meet the court’s expectations.
Trauma-Informed Advocacy
Families in crisis deserve an advocate who understands the emotional and psychological complexities of these cases. We listen carefully, communicate clearly, and elevate your perspective in the courtroom.
Protection of Parental Rights
If CYS overreaches or misinterprets the circumstances, we challenge unsupported allegations and ensure the court sees the full picture—not just the agency’s narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dependency & Child Welfare in Pennsylvania
When Children and Youth Services (CYS) becomes involved with your family, it can feel confusing, overwhelming, and deeply personal. These frequently asked questions are meant to help you understand the juvenile dependency process in Pennsylvania, what to expect in court, and how Chauncey Law can support you and your child at every stage.
What is a juvenile dependency case in Pennsylvania?
A juvenile dependency case is a court process that determines whether a child is without proper parental care or control and needs the court’s protection.
In Pennsylvania, Children and Youth Services (CYS) may file a dependency petition if they believe a child is at risk due to alleged abuse, neglect, unsafe living conditions, or other serious concerns. The dependency court then decides:
• Whether the child is “dependent” under the law
• Where the child should live while the case is open
• What services the parents and child need
The goal in most juvenile dependency cases is to stabilize the situation and, when safe and possible, reunify the child with their family.
How does a juvenile dependency case start?
A juvenile dependency case usually begins with a report to CYS about a child’s safety or well-being. The report might come from:
• Teachers or school staff
• Doctors, nurses, or therapists
• Neighbors or family members
• Law enforcement
CYS investigates the concerns and may offer services, create a safety plan, or, in more serious situations, file a petition in juvenile court. If CYS believes a child is in immediate danger, they may seek emergency removal and a quick court hearing called a Shelter Care hearing.
If you have been contacted by CYS or served with dependency papers, it is important to speak with a juvenile dependency attorney as soon as possible so you understand your rights and the next steps.
What happens at a Shelter Care hearing?
A Shelter Care hearing is an emergency hearing that must be held within a short time—usually within 72 hours—when a child has been removed from the home or there is a request for emergency placement.
At the Shelter Care hearing, the court decides:
• Whether the child should remain out of the home temporarily
• Whether the child can safely return home with conditions or safety measures
• What temporary placement is appropriate (relative, foster care, etc.)
This hearing moves quickly and can set the tone for the rest of the case. Having an attorney who understands juvenile dependency law can help ensure that your voice is heard, the facts are presented clearly, and the court considers all available options.
What is an adjudication hearing in juvenile dependency court?
The adjudication hearing is where the court decides whether the child is legally “dependent.” CYS presents evidence about the concerns that led to the case, and the parent or guardian has the right to be represented by an attorney, present evidence, and cross-examine witnesses.
If the judge finds the child is dependent, the court will enter an order and set a plan that may include:
• Services for parents (such as parenting programs, counseling, or treatment)
• Services for the child (such as therapy or educational support)
• A placement plan (home, kinship care, or foster care)
The adjudication decision is significant, but it is not the end of the story. With the right support and advocacy, families can work toward reunification and long-term stability.
What are my rights as a parent in a juvenile dependency case?
As a parent involved in a juvenile dependency case in Pennsylvania, you have important rights, including:
• The right to be notified of court hearings
• The right to be represented by an attorney
• The right to receive and review information used in your case
• The right to present witnesses and evidence
• The right to cross-examine CYS workers and other witnesses
• The right to a clear plan explaining what you must do to work toward reunification
You also have responsibilities, such as following court orders, engaging in services, and maintaining appropriate contact with your child when permitted. At Chauncey Law, we help you understand and exercise your rights while supporting you through each step of the process.
Will I automatically lose my parental rights in a dependency case?
No. A juvenile dependency case does not automatically mean you will lose your parental rights. The primary goal in most dependency cases is to address safety concerns and work toward reunification when it is safe for the child.
Termination of parental rights is a separate, more serious process that occurs only if reunification efforts fail or if the court determines that reunification is not in the child’s best interest under the law.
Having a proactive, engaged attorney early in the dependency process can help you stay focused on what the court expects and what you can do to preserve and strengthen your relationship with your child.
How long does a juvenile dependency case usually last?
The length of a juvenile dependency case varies depending on the specific circumstances, the progress made, and the needs of the child. Courts hold regular review hearings—often every few months—to evaluate:
• The child’s placement and well-being
• The parents’ participation in services
• Whether the safety concerns have improved
• Whether reunification, continued placement, or another permanent plan is appropriate
Some cases resolve in a matter of months; others may last longer. Throughout the process, Chauncey Law helps parents stay informed, prepare for hearings, and stay focused on the steps that move the case toward the best possible outcome.
What is the goal of a juvenile dependency case?
The primary goal of a juvenile dependency case is to ensure the safety, stability, and well-being of the child. In many cases, this includes:
• Addressing safety concerns within the home
• Providing services and support to parents and caregivers
• Working toward safe reunification whenever possible
If reunification is not possible or safe, the court may consider alternative permanent plans such as:
• Placement with relatives (kinship care)
• Legal guardianship
• Adoption
At Chauncey Law, we advocate for solutions that protect children while respecting the importance of family relationships and the rights of parents.
Do I really need an attorney for a juvenile dependency case?
Juvenile dependency and child welfare law is complex, and the decisions made in these cases can have a lasting impact on your family. Having an experienced dependency attorney means you have someone to:
• Explain the process and what to expect at each hearing
• Communicate with CYS and other professionals on your behalf
• Present your perspective clearly and effectively in court
• Help you understand and comply with the court-ordered plan
At Chauncey Law, we provide compassionate, straightforward guidance and strong advocacy so you don’t have to navigate this process alone.
What should I do right now if CYS has contacted me about my child?
If CYS has contacted you, or if you have received court papers about a juvenile dependency case, it is important to act quickly and calmly. Steps you can take include:
• Reading any paperwork carefully, including hearing dates and orders
• Writing down who contacted you, what was said, and any deadlines
• Gathering relevant documents (such as medical records, school records, or prior reports)
• Contacting a juvenile dependency attorney as soon as possible
Early legal advice can help you avoid missteps, understand your rights, and prepare for upcoming hearings. Chauncey Law is available to review your situation, answer your questions, and help you build a plan to protect your child and your parental rights.
Facing a CYS Case in Delaware County? We Can Help.
Protect your child. Protect your future. Protect your family.
Don’t navigate the child welfare system alone. Contact Chauncey Law LLC today for experienced, compassionate representation in your Delaware County dependency matter. We offer confidential consultations to discuss your situation and how we can assist you.
Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. To obtain guidance specific to your situation, please contact an attorney.