#1 Guide for Parents in San Bernardino County: CPS Cases, Juvenile Dependency, and Defending Against Child Abuse Allegations

If Child Protective Services (CPS) has contacted you in San Bernardino County, your parental rights could be at risk. Whether you’re facing a CPS investigation, accused of child abuse or neglect, or have been served with a juvenile dependency petition, the most important thing to know is this: You are not alone, and you have legal rights.

At ALL Trial Lawyers, we fight for parents in San Bernardino County who are caught in the middle of a CPS case. We understand the urgency, the fear, and the high stakes. With the right legal strategy and immediate action, you can protect your family and work toward reunification.

What Starts a CPS Case in San Bernardino County?

Most CPS cases begin with a report—sometimes from a teacher, doctor, police officer, or even a neighbor. Once a report is made, CPS opens an investigation and may attempt to contact or interview you and your child.

Learn how CPS investigations work in San Bernardino County and what you should expect. During this stage, the social worker may visit your home, speak to your child at school, and try to assess the safety of your living situation.

It’s crucial that you know your rights and avoid mistakes that can make the case worse. Do not talk to CPS without legal advice. Here’s what to do when CPS comes to your home.

Understanding Juvenile Dependency in San Bernardino

If CPS believes your child is at risk of harm, they may file a petition in juvenile dependency court. This starts a legal process where the court decides whether your child should be removed from your care or allowed to stay with you under supervision.

The stages of a juvenile dependency case include:

Detention hearing
Jurisdiction hearing
Disposition hearing
Review hearings every six months
Reunification or termination of parental rights

You can read more about juvenile dependency in San Bernardino County here. These cases move quickly, and parents often have only a few days to respond. That’s why hiring a CPS defense attorney early can make all the difference.

What California Law Says About Child Abuse and Neglect

Under Welfare & Institutions Code § 300, the court can take jurisdiction over a child when there is evidence of abuse, neglect, or failure to protect. The law outlines several scenarios, including:

Physical abuse
General or severe neglect
Emotional damage
Inability to care due to mental illness or substance abuse

But not every allegation is true, and not every case deserves court intervention. In many cases, CPS steps in based on incomplete or exaggerated claims. That’s where an experienced attorney comes in.

How We Defend Parents Accused of Abuse or Neglect

Facing a child abuse or neglect case in San Bernardino County can be terrifying. Even if the accusations are false or based on a misunderstanding, CPS may still take action. We have helped hundreds of parents fight back using strategic tools such as:

Expert witnesses and psychological evaluations
Documentation showing safe parenting practices
Witness statements and school records
Legal challenges to procedural violations

Our goal is always to protect your parental rights, reunite families, and prevent permanent separation.

Why Local Knowledge of San Bernardino Courts Matters

Juvenile dependency cases in San Bernardino County are handled at the San Bernardino Juvenile Court. Each court has its own procedures, timelines, and courtroom culture. Our attorneys regularly appear in San Bernardino courts and know how to navigate the local system.

We are familiar with county counsel, social workers, judges, and the unique factors that shape dependency outcomes in this area. This local insight gives our clients an edge when their families are on the line.

Recognized for CPS Defense Across Southern California

ALL Trial Lawyers is trusted by families throughout Southern California. Our work has been recognized in a recent press release highlighting our leadership in CPS and juvenile dependency defense.

While based in Orange County, our attorneys serve clients across counties including San Bernardino, Riverside, and Los Angeles. We bring the same aggressive defense and personalized strategy to every CPS case we handle.

What Parents in San Bernardino County Should Do Next

If CPS is involved in your life, don’t wait. Every day matters when your child’s custody is at stake. Whether you’re at the beginning of a CPS investigation or already in court, you need a San Bernardino CPS defense attorney who knows how to fight and win these cases.

Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation. We’ll explain your rights, review your case, and help you take immediate steps to protect your child and your future.