Understanding CPS Case History and Its Impact

Have you wondered if you can keep your CPS (Child Protective Services) case history sealed and prevent it from being used against you in the future? If your case history contains a significant number of reports, you may find yourself in a unique and challenging situation. This article will provide insights into how CPS case histories are managed, whether they can be sealed, and what steps you can take to protect your record.

Privacy and Public Access

Unless you were charged with a criminal offense, the information in your CPS case history, including any closed cases, is typically not available to the public. Instead, these records are kept for internal record-keeping purposes only. Even though these records are not generally accessible to the public, they are maintained for up to 50 years, which is a long time to hold onto sensitive information, especially if it involves juvenile court cases. This is particularly concerning for cases that do not involve actual abuse or harmful neglect.

The Possibility of Expungement

While there is a possibility of expunging your CPS record, it comes with several challenges. The process requires the involvement of a lawyer and is highly dependent on the number and nature of the reports against you. With 28 separate reports against you, it is unlikely that you will be able to expunge your record. Courts often have strict criteria for expungement, and concerns about the safety of the children involved are a primary consideration.

Why CPS Records Often Cannot Be Sealed

CPS records are treated differently from criminal records. The primary goal of CPS is to protect children, and their files are not designed to be sealed. Even skilled attorneys may have difficulty convincing a judge to seal these records due to the potential risk to children. If your CPS case history contains 6 founded reports of harmful issues, the likelihood of sealing your record is even lower. The courts will prioritize the safety of the children over the privacy of the individual.

Managing Your CPS Records

While you cannot seal your CPS case history, there are steps you can take to manage and mitigate its impact. Here are some strategies:

Seek Legal Advice: Consult with a legal professional who specializes in CPS cases to understand your options and potential for expungement. Focus on Positive Actions: Demonstrating a commitment to positive behavior and involvement in your community can help counteract the negative impact of your record. Obtain a Clearance: If you are seeking a position that requires a background check, such as a Level II clearance, ensure you understand the specific requirements and prepare accordingly.

It is crucial to understand that once a CPS case has been made, the records will remain on file for at least 5 to 50 years. This can be particularly challenging if your case history involves more than a handful of unfounded reports. However, there are ways to manage and mitigate the impact of these records on your future opportunities.

Conclusion

While CPS records are not designed to be sealed and the process of expungement is complex, there are steps you can take to manage your record and protect your future. If you are facing similar challenges, it is essential to seek professional legal advice and understand the specific requirements of your situation.