1.1 Preponderance of Evidence Cases
In these cases, treatment services are provided because supportive evidence indicated during the child abuse/neglect investigation that abuse or neglect had occurred or is occurring. The Children’s Division worker or unit responsible for providing treatment services receives the "Preponderance of Evidence" case from the child abuse/neglect investigative worker, or unit. In most instances, this will be after the investigation has been completed, but it does not preclude a family from receiving services prior to the completion of the report.
The supervisor shall assign cases with findings of "Preponderance of Evidence" or "unsubstantiated - preventive services indicated" cases within one (1) working day of the CA/N investigation conclusion or receipt of the case from the CA/N Investigation Unit/worker.
The supervisor shall review the CPS-1, if case referral was due to a CA/N investigation/family assessment, arrangements shall be made to conduct an initial face-to-face interview with the family in their home based on the following SDM risk levels;
- High or Very High Risk - within one (1) working day;
- Moderate Risk - within five (5) working days; and
- Low Risk - within ten (10) working days.
If the case referral was not due to a CA/N investigation/family assessment, the supervisor's appraisal of the potential risk to the children and overall family situation will determine when treatment follow-up contact by the children's service worker is needed. This should Not exceed Ten (10) Working Days from Case Assignment.
NOTE: Some family crisis situations may require a joint home visit by the Investigator and Treatment Worker to: 1) ensure the safety of the child(ren); 2) provide a consistent view of the crisis situation; and 3) expedite the provision of treatment services.
In cases of sibling/adolescent sex abuse, Family-Centered Services (FCS) and/or information and referral services to the family will be provided.
It is important to follow up on these referrals so that action is taken with the entire family ensuring that they receive services. There should be involvement of local resources in the community through community team development and intervention.
In situations in which sexual abuse occurs in a foster home, county staff assigned to the child or foster home (as determined by the county office administration) shall ensure that appropriate services are provided to the victim and the abuser in the foster home.
Chapter Memoranda History: (prior to 1/31/07)
CS03-51, CD04-79, CD06-34, CD06-63