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Child Abuse and Neglect and Child Protective Services

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1. What happens when I call the Hotline?

You'll be connected to a Child Protective Services (CPS) Hotline social worker who will ask questions to determine if the situation you're reporting requires further attention. If so, a CPS social worker will respond to the situation.

2. Will the child be removed from the home?

A child is removed from the home only as a last resort. As defined in Virginia law, this would be when there is "imminent threat to the life or health of the child." In such cases, CPS social workers do not act alone. They must have court approval to remove a child from a parent's custody. Usually, approval occurs before the child is removed, however, in extreme emergencies, the court may approve after the removal.

3. What happens to a child when he or she is removed from the home?

Every attempt is made to place the child with family members or relatives. If that is not possible, the child is placed in a temporary foster home.

4. Does CPS become involved in child custody or visitation disputes?

Child Protective Services becomes involved only when there is a legitimate complaint that a child is a victim of abuse or neglect by the child's caretaker (parent, guardian, etc.).

5. At what age can a child be left alone — and for how long?

Child Protective Services has published Child Supervision Guidelines. The guidelines provide information on when a child may be left unsupervised.

6. What types of abuse does CPS investigate?

Child Protective Services investigates suspected incidents of physical abuse and neglect, mental or emotional abuse, medical neglect, and sexual abuse by a child's caretaker (parent, guardian, etc.)

7. How are you able to work with people who do not speak English?

Several of our social workers are bilingual. In addition, some of our written materials are printed in other languages.