ALLEGATIONS OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT DURING DIVORCE

When emotions are running high in the divorce process, it is not uncommon for people to amplify their concerns over an ex-spouse’s ability to parent. In some cases, those concerns might lead to allegations of child abuse and neglect. What is the right course of action when you suspect an ex-spouse of substance abuse or mental health issues? What can you do to ensure the health and safety of your children without overreacting? What happens once Child Protective Services gets involved?

Allison Williams is the founder and owner of Williams Law Group, a practice focused exclusively on matrimonial and family law with an emphasis on complex child welfare matters. An established leader in the field of child welfare law, Allison has appeared on several media outlets including Katie, News 12 New Jersey and Chasing News, and she lectures regularly for professional organizations like the Institute for Continuing Legal Education. In 2017, she was recognized as a New Jersey Super Lawyer for the fourth consecutive year.

Today, Allison sits down with Katherine to define child abuse and neglect, the two categories of child welfare addressed in the Adoption & Safe Families Act. She explains the legal risk associated with failing to ensure your child’s safety when they are in the care of an ex-spouse—specifically in cases where substance abuse or mental health issues are present. Allison walks us through the CPS investigation process, offering insight around how the circumstances of divorce may influence a case worker’s assessment of an allegation’s credibility. Listen in to understand why CPS has a statutory responsibility to reach a conclusion once a case has been opened and learn what to expect once the process is set in motion.