Department of Children and Families (DCF)
This section has information about how DCF can get involved with a family when it thinks that there has been child abuse or neglect. It includes information about how DCF works, what you can do if DCF gets involved with your family, and what happens in a care and protection court case.
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Introduction to the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF)
In Massachusetts, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) is the state agency that gets involved when a caretaker is accused of child abuse or neglect.
What happens if DCF opens a case for my family?
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) usually opens a case for a family after it makes a “support” or “substantiated concern” decision. DCF makes these decisions after investigating a 51A report of abuse or neglect. Thousands of...
Can DCF take my child?
Learn what happens when the Department of Children and Families (DCF) removes a child from their home.
DCF and domestic violence
Information for domestic violence survivors if the Department of Children and Families (DCF) gets involved with your family.
DCF Fair Hearings Help Center
A guide to the DCF fair hearing process to appeal certain decisions that DCF made about you or your family that you disagree with.
How does DCF find out about child abuse and neglect (51A report)?
Learn more about 51A reports.
How the Probate and Family Court gets access to DCF records
The Probate and Family Court can get access to Department of Children and Families (DCF) records about you, your children, and the other parent.
How to get reports and records from DCF
Follow these steps to get copies of DCF reports and records involving you or your child.
What can I do if I cannot get along with my DCF worker?
Learn what options you have if you do not have a good working relationship with your DCF worker.
What can I do if I disagree with a DCF decision?
How to get a decision reviewed that the Department of Children and Families (DCF) made about you or your family.
Where to get help with DCF Fair Hearings
Looking to appeal a DCF Supported or Substantiated Concern decision? These nonprofit programs may be able to help you.
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