Once a DCS case is open, you’ll encounter new procedures, professionals, and expectations. Three key components—safety plans, team meetings, and parent aides—can determine how your case moves forward.
Safety Plans
A DCS safety plan is a voluntary agreement between you and the Department to keep your child safe without removing them from your home.
It may include:
- Supervision requirements
- Substance testing
- Child temporarily living with a relative
Tip: Do not sign a safety plan unless you understand it fully. Violating the plan can lead directly to removal.
Team Decision Making Meetings (TDMs)
These meetings happen:
- At the start of a case
- When placement changes
- Before court decisions
TDMs involve you, your caseworker, legal counsel, and other professionals. They’re designed to discuss and plan case progress collaboratively.
Tip: Prepare like you would for court. Bring documentation. Ask questions. Advocate for visitation and services.
Parent Aides
A parent aide is assigned to:
- Help you complete services
- Provide parenting guidance
- Supervise visits with your child
While they are meant to support you, they also report progress (or lack of it) to the caseworker.
Tip: Be respectful, consistent, and communicative with your parent aide—they can be your ally, but they also influence the case.
At Modern Law, we help clients navigate these tools to stay compliant, advocate for themselves, and move toward reunification with confidence.
