Division of Child Protection & Permanency

Defending Parents in New Jersey Child Protection & Permanency (DCP&P) Cases

When the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P, formerly known as DYFS) contacts your family, the situation can quickly become overwhelming and terrifying. Allegations of abuse or neglect trigger investigations that may result in the removal of your children from your home, court-ordered supervision, mandatory services, or—in the most serious cases—termination of your parental rights. At Gebhardt & Kiefer, P.C., our dedicated family law attorneys provide experienced, compassionate, and aggressive representation for parents facing these high-stakes proceedings throughout Hunterdon County and Central New Jersey.

Understanding DCP&P Investigations and Proceedings

DCP&P is New Jersey’s child welfare agency responsible for investigating reports of child abuse and neglect. Anyone can make an anonymous report, and certain professionals (teachers, doctors, etc.) are mandatory reporters. An investigation can involve home visits, interviews with you and your children, review of medical and school records, and referrals for services. If DCP&P believes a child is at imminent risk, they may seek an emergency removal order from the court.

Possible outcomes include voluntary case plans, court-ordered services, temporary out-of-home placement, or—after a finding of abuse or neglect and a permanency hearing—termination of parental rights so the child can be adopted. These cases move quickly and involve strict timelines under federal and state law. Parents have fundamental constitutional rights to the care and custody of their children, but exercising those rights effectively requires skilled legal advocacy.

How We Protect Your Parental Rights

Our attorneys have deep experience representing parents in all stages of DCP&P matters. We understand the agency’s procedures, the family court system, and how to present compelling evidence of parental fitness and appropriate care. We work tirelessly to achieve reunification whenever possible while protecting your rights at every step.

• Immediate response to investigations and court orders
• Representation at all hearings: emergent removal, fact-finding, dispositional, permanency, and termination of parental rights (TPR)
• Challenging improper or unsupported allegations with expert testimony and evidence
• Advocating for realistic case plans and family preservation services
• Negotiating consent orders or litigating contested matters
• Assisting with appeals when necessary

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if DCP&P shows up at my door or contacts me?

Do not ignore them but politely decline to answer questions without an attorney present. Contact Gebhardt & Kiefer immediately at 908-735-5161. We can often intervene early to protect your rights and guide the process.

Can DCP&P remove my children without a court order?

In true emergency situations where a child faces imminent danger, DCP&P may remove a child without a prior court order, but they must seek court approval within a very short time (usually 24-48 hours). We fight vigorously against unnecessary removals.

How long do DCP&P cases typically last?

Timelines are strict. Fact-finding hearings must occur within strict deadlines, and permanency hearings are required within 12-15 months. Many cases resolve in 6–18 months with proper advocacy, but contested TPR cases can take longer.

Can I get my children back if they were removed?

Yes. The goal of the system is family reunification when it can be achieved safely. We help parents complete required services, demonstrate changed circumstances, and present strong evidence to the court for return of custody.

No parent should face a DCP&P investigation or proceeding alone. The consequences are too severe and the rules too complex. Contact our experienced Hunterdon County family law attorneys today at 908-735-5161 for a confidential consultation. We have been helping New Jersey families protect their most precious relationships since 1884.