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.
Scroll down to articles and other content in this section below.
7 Results
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.
Can DCF take my child?
If the Department of Children and Families (DCF) thinks that a child is in danger due to abuse or neglect, it can go to the Juvenile Court to ask for custody of that child. DCF can also remove a child from their home before going to court...
DCF Fair Hearings Help Center
In Massachusetts, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) is the agency responsible for making sure children are safe. It is supposed to do this by supporting children's families when they need help. It is only supposed to remove...
How does DCF find out about child abuse and neglect (51A report)?
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) has a 24 hour, 7 days a week hotline system for receiving reports about abuse or neglect of children. Local DCF offices, called Area Offices, also receive reports of abuse or neglect during...
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.
What can I do if I cannot get along with my DCF worker?
A good working relationship with your Department of Children and Families (DCF) worker is important because: It is helpful for your DCF case if DCF understands your point of view. It is harder for DCF to understand your point of view if you...
What can I do if I disagree with a DCF decision?
If you disagree with a decision that the Department of Children and Families (DCF) made about you or your family, you may be able to get that decision reviewed. Depending on the type of DCF decision you want reviewed, you can: Ask for a DCF...