Call us: Mon - Fri 8:30am - 7pm, Sat - Sun 9am - 5pm
Call local rate 0330 056 3171
Mon - Fri 8:30am - 7pm | Sat - Sun 9am - 5pm
Call local rate 0330 056 3171
Mon - Fri 8:30am - 7pm | Sat - Sun 9am - 5pm

US court: authorities can take children into care even if there is no evidence of mistreatment

Recent Posts

Family Court Fees to Rise

March 28, 2024

The New Jersey Supreme Court has ruled that children can be taken into care even there is no evidence of abuse or neglect.

The case concerned a divorced mother, referred to as ‘LS’ in court documents, living in Camden County within the state. Her nine year-old twin daughters suffered from various emotional problems and learning difficulties and she approached the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency, saying they needed special care which she was unable to provide. The courts acknowledged that there had been no neglect or abuse of the children but still transferred custody of the girls to the state.

After treatment one girl returned to her mother, but custody of her sister was given to the father.

The Statewide Parent Advocacy Network of New Jersey contributed to the case with an amicus curiae (friend of the court) briefing, setting out their views. Executive Director Diana Autin told CBS Philly that the courts can place a child in care if parents cannot properly provide for children with special needs. Parents who can afford to meet the needs of children with psychological or emotional problems were unlikely to be targeted, she explained.

“You can turn to the Division [of Child Protection] for help, but it may come with a cost. It could end with an award of custody to the Division for at least six months, maybe even longer.”

She added:

“By seeking help, [the mother in this case] lost custody of one of her children.”

Struggling parents considering going to the authorities for help should seek legal advice beforehand, she advised.

The blog team at Stowe is a group of writers based across our family law offices who share their advice on the wellbeing and emotional aspects of divorce or separation from personal experience. As well as pieces from our family law solicitors, guest contributors also regularly contribute to share their knowledge.

Contact us

As the UK's largest family law firm we understand that every case is personal.

Comments(2)

  1. Paul says:

    It’s funny because when there is abuse and neglect, like when ‘mum’ alienates the children from dad and there’s lots and lots of evidence to that effect, in those circumstances social services will give ‘mum’ a pat on the back to let her know how ‘appropriately protective’ she is.

    This isn’t a joke. It actually did happen with me.

  2. Dana says:

    This is so wrong! In the UK it happens. Kids are removed from families on hearsay no tangible evidence, what’s the difference?

Leave a comment

Help & advice categories

Subscribe
?
Get
more
advice
Close

Newsletter Sign Up

Sign up for advice on divorce and relationships from our lawyers, divorce coaches and relationship experts.

What type of information are you looking for?


Privacy Policy
Close
Close