The child protection system (CPS)

Know Your Rights

Other Personal Problems

If you are being hurt, threatened or stalked, try to talk with a domestic violence program. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE. 

For court forms, choose the Court Forms & Procedures tab below.

Child Protective Services (CPS) and Dependency Actions

Read this if you are involved with Child Protective Services, but there is no court case or if the State of Washington (through DSHS, CPS, the Prosecutor, or the Attorney General’s Office) has filed a court case to take your child from you. #3120EN

Indian Child Welfare Act

The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is a federal law that creates strict standards for state courts to follow in Indian child custody proceedings. The ICWA declares "the policy of this Nation is to protect the best interests of Indian children and to promote the stability and security of Indian tribes and families." #9201EN

What To Do When Your Child is Removed by CPS

Learn about what you can do if your child is removed by CPS in King County. Get tips from a lawyer and parents who have been through it: DOs and DON’Ts, step-by-step, towards the goal of getting your child back.

Child Protective Services (CPS) and Dependency Actions

Read this if you are involved with Child Protective Services, but there is no court case or if the State of Washington (through DSHS, CPS, the Prosecutor, or the Attorney General’s Office) has filed a court case to take your child from you. #3120EN

Know Your Rights When CPS Comes Knocking

A guide for domestic violence survivors to understand their rights in the initial stages of a Child Protective Services (CPS) investigation, and to know what Washington’s policy is regarding domestic violence and CPS, especially in the early stages of a case, when things are moving fast and may feel scary and confusing.

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