DCF False Allegations Attorney Tampa, FL
A DCF false allegations attorney Tampa, FL relies on for wrongful accusations of abuse
In a high-conflict separation or divorce, it is possible for one spouse to attempt to gain an advantage over the other by falsely alleging about:
- Child neglect or abuse
- Physical abuse
- Verbal abuse
- Mental instability
- Alcohol abuse
- Drug abuse
- Engaging in criminal activity
A wrongful accusation could be made to attempt to deter their spouse from getting a larger financial settlement, restrict their parental rights, or as a desire to make their spouse’s life difficult. A false allegation can be made to the police, the Department of Children and Family, to family members or friends, on social media, or to the family court. If your spouse has made a false allegation against you, it is recommended that you speak with a family attorney Tampa, FL has to offer.
Every day, the DCF investigates a number of allegations; most of which turn out to be false or exaggerated. You should take any allegation and investigation seriously, but also trust our firm to guide you through the process. If the Florida DCF has initiated litigation by filing for a Petition for Dependency, you should have concerns. What this means is that the state can step in and become the dependent of the child. In this case, the consequences could be devastating. Having a DCF false allegations attorney in Tampa, FL at your side will be of the utmost importance.
The Phases of the Florida DCF Process
When the DCF gets involved, it is possible for a process consisting of 5 phases to ensue. These include:
- The initial investigation (many cases will be closed once the investigation is complete)
- The shelter hearing (at which the state dependency petition will be filed)
- The arraignment (where the alleged party will admit or deny consent to the petition)
- The adjudication (where the alleged party can oppose the petition)
- The disposition (if the children are found to be dependent, the court will initiate a plan for the parents, or may elect to terminate their parental rights)
At The McKinney Law Group, our DCF false allegations attorney in Tampa, FL put the wellbeing of our clients first. If you believe your spouse has made a false allegation against you, let us take the proactive steps to protect you. We are able to ask the court to order an independent psychological evaluation of your family to assess the family unit and make a determination on whether or not the allegation could be true. We can also make a firm statement to the other side; reminding them that making a false allegation is illegal and carries penalties.
Countering False Allegations Made During a Divorce or Separation in Florida
When you are dealing with a false accusation of any action that could be harmful or unlawful to a child, The McKinney Law Group can offer you valuable advice. We would recommend that you avoid confronting the party making the accusation. Rather, please consult your DCF false allegations attorney in Tampa, FL. If you are contacted by law enforcement or the DCF, please remain calm and call The McKinney Law Group. If you become defensive or aggressive, your case can be impacted. In the event you have been served with an order of protection, you should know that you will have an opportunity to defend yourself. As you wait for your hearing, please obey all of the terms to avoid complicating your case. Finally, be sure to work with a leading DCF false allegations attorney in Tampa, FL, such as one from The McKinney Law Group.