KNOW YOUR RIGHTS COMMUNITY FORUM

The First Know Your Rights Community forum held on September 7th at Torrington Public Library was fantastic.

Myself, another attorney, social worker and parent advocate will host several know your rights community forums relating to DCF investigation, throughout the state of Connecticut.  We had a great turnout; of parents, professionals, and grandparents, for our first event.

Attorney Vincent of Torrington CT, discussed the rights of parents during a DCF investigation.  Knowing your rights during the investigation phase is key to preparing yourself for a positive outcome.  Securing your constitutional rights may be frightening when approached by government agents who have the power to take your child.  While it is frightening, advocating for yourself and family is an essential component of success in a DCF investigation or subsequent neglect petition.

I, Attorney Cynthea M. Motschmann, spoke about Orders of Temporary Custody (OTC) and Considered Removal Meetings.  At times DCF will strong arm parents into voluntarily placing their children with other family member’s, but not realizing that the removal was voluntary.  The department will often conduct a considered removal meeting.  They do not have to conduct the CRM prior to the actual removal.  They often do not call the meeting a Considered Removal Meeting which confuses and misleads parents about the potential outcome of the meeting.

Social Worker Lauren Vernaglia discussed toxic stress and ways to cope with stress during DCF involvement.  She shared wonderful strategies that any individual dealing with toxic stress can implement into their daily lives.  She urges us to remember: People, Places, and Things.  (1)Who can we rely on for support? (2)Where can we get involved with something meaningful to you? and (3) What types of things bring you peace?

Parent Advocate Yvonne Adamow provided us insight into the reasons why DCF operates in the way that it does.  She urged parents to stay organized, be mindful on how they correspond with DCF, and purposeful in your responses to their inquiries.

Our next Know Your Rights Community Forum will be held on October 5th at the New Britain Public Library from 6:00-7:30pm. Join us and spread the word.