The journey from a simple report to the removal of a child is often misunderstood and fraught with emotion, confusion, and systemic complexity. In Washoe County, as in the rest of Nevada, this process is guided by strict laws, procedures, and timelines, but the lived experience of families often feels anything but straightforward.
The Initial Call
Every foster care case begins with a report. This can be made by a teacher, neighbor, relative, doctor, or any
concerned adult who believes a child is at risk. Reports may be due to suspected abuse, neglect, or unsafe
living conditions. Once received, CPS must determine whether the report warrants investigation.
The reporter may remain anonymous, but CPS is obligated to investigate every claim. Many parents are
unaware that a report has been filed until a caseworker contacts them, which can be startling and
frightening.
The Investigation Phase
Upon receiving a report, CPS initiates an investigation, which can include: - Home visits to assess living
conditions - Interviews with the child, parents, and other household members - Collaboration with
teachers, doctors, or other professionals - Review of records such as medical, school, and prior CPS
involvement. The goal is to determine whether the child is safe and whether removal is necessary. This phase often lasts 30 days but can be shorter in cases of immediate danger.
Determining Risk and Need for Removal
Caseworkers use risk assessment tools to evaluate the level of danger a child faces. Factors include: -
Severity and frequency of abuse or neglect - Parent’s ability or willingness to address concerns - Child’s age,
health, and vulnerability - Previous CPS involvement
If the child is deemed unsafe, CPS may petition the court for removal. This does not mean the parents are
considered bad or unfit; rather, it is a legal measure to protect the child while support services are arranged.
The Protective Custody Hearing
Once a child is removed, Nevada law requires a protective custody hearing within 72 hours. The court
evaluates whether the removal was justified and if the child should remain in temporary custody. Parents
have the right to legal representation, and the court may order services or supervised visits during this
period.
Case Planning and Services
Following the initial removal, CPS works with the family to develop a case plan. This plan outlines: - Required
services (therapy, substance use programs, parenting classes) - Timelines for completion - Supervised
visitation schedules - Benchmarks for reunification
Case plans are intended to be clear roadmaps to reunification, but families often experience frustration due
to inconsistent communication, limited service availability, and rigid deadlines.
Placement Decisions
When determining placement, CPS prioritizes the child’s safety, stability, and familiarity. Options include: -
Relative or kinship placement: Preferred to maintain family connections - Non-relative foster care:
Licensed homes with trained caregivers - Specialized care: For children with behavioral or medical needs -
Group homes or residential treatment: Used when other options are unavailable
Placement decisions are critical and can significantly impact a child’s adjustment, well-being, and
attachment development.
Court Oversight
From removal through permanency, family court provides ongoing oversight. Judges monitor compliance
with case plans, evaluate progress, and make key decisions regarding reunification or termination of
parental rights. Regular hearings ensure accountability but can also feel overwhelming for families.
Challenges in Transitioning from Call to Case
• Communication gaps: Parents often feel out of the loop.
• Trauma for the child: Sudden removal is deeply distressing.
• Service limitations: Waitlists and availability can delay progress.
•Cultural misunderstandings: Bias or lack of cultural competence can affect decisions.
How FosterED Connection Supports Families
We aim to demystify this process and support families by: - Explaining legal and procedural steps in plain
language - Providing guidance on how to engage with caseworkers and the court - Connecting families to
local resources and trauma-informed services - Offering community and peer support networks
Final Thoughts
The journey from a CPS call to a foster placement is complex, emotional, and life-changing. Understanding
the process is critical for families, caregivers, and professionals who want to navigate the system effectively
and advocate for children’s well-being.
In the next blog, we’ll explore the key players in the foster care system in Washoe County—CPS, CASA, GALs,
and caseworkers—and how their roles intersect.