Indicated by DCFS? You Have the Right to Fight Back
If you’ve received a letter from the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) stating that you’ve been “indicated” for abuse or neglect, your future is at risk. But you have the right to appeal that finding. If you find yourself indicated by DCFS, you need to consult with an experienced attorney immediately.
What Does It Mean to Be “Indicated” by DCFS?
After receiving a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, DCFS may investigate and determine whether there is credible evidence that abuse or neglect occurred. If they believe there is, they issue an “indicated finding.” This is not a criminal conviction, but it can still have devastating consequences.
Who Can Appeal a DCFS Indication?
Anyone who has received a notice of indicated finding has the right to appeal. You typically have 60 days from the date of the notice to file a request for an administrative hearing.
We represent clients appealing DCFS indications based on allegations such as:
Physical abuse
Inadequate supervision
Medical neglect
Substance abuse around children
Environmental neglect (e.g., unsafe living conditions)
Sexual abuse
Exposure to domestic violence
You do not need to have been arrested or charged criminally to be indicated — DCFS can issue a finding based on far less evidence. That’s why appealing is so important.
Why DCFS Indications Are Often Flawed
DCFS investigations are often rushed, incomplete, or based on:
Hearsay or unreliable reports
Biased assumptions by caseworkers
Misunderstood parenting decisions
False allegations during divorce or custody cases
Overreliance on anonymous tips
In many cases, the “credible evidence” standard is far lower than what’s required in criminal court — which is why strong legal defense makes a difference.
217 Law Attorneys
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Courtney Anderson
Courtney practices criminal defense, family law, and personal injury. Never shy of a difficult or high-profile case, she has won numerous awards for her advocacy, including recently being selected as a finalist for top lawyer in Macon County.
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Fallon Conner
Fallon practices criminal defense and family law. As a former prosecutor, she has unique insight into the criminal justice system. She enjoys being in the courtroom and has a great track record of success in bench and jury trials.
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Zach Anderson
Zach focuses on helping injured clients with workers compensation, personal injury, and products liability claims. He has successfully resolved multiple single-party injury cases for over $1 million, and has helped recover millions for users of bad products.
We want to work with you.
Phone:
217-217-0217
Address:
132 S. Water St., Suite 628. Decatur, IL 62523
Email:
info@217law.com
Where We Work:
We help clients throughout the 217 area code with injury claims and general civil litigation. We practice criminal defense and family law in Macon and surrounding counties.
