Accused by CPS in San Bernardino County? Here’s What You Need to Know and How to Protect Your Family

Getting a visit or call from Child Protective Services (CPS) is something no parent ever expects and it’s often terrifying when it happens. If you live in San Bernardino County, especially in cities like Rancho Cucamonga, Redlands, San Bernardino, Chino Hills, Upland, or any city in San Bernardino County, and CPS has contacted you, it’s important to understand why, what they’re allowed to do, and what your legal rights are right now.

In this article, we explain the most common reasons CPS gets involved in child welfare cases in San Bernardino and what you can do to defend yourself. We also answer real questions that local families ask every day when facing these situations.

What Is CPS in San Bernardino County?

In San Bernardino County, CPS operates under the Children and Family Services (CFS) division of the San Bernardino County Department of Children and Family Services. Their job is to investigate reports of child abuse or neglect and decide whether court involvement is needed.

But here’s what many families don’t know:
CPS can (and often does) remove children from their homes before a judge ever hears the case, especially if they believe there’s immediate danger. That’s why it’s critical to act quickly, know your rights, and speak to a juvenile dependency attorney in San Bernardino County as soon as possible.

Common Allegations in San Bernardino CPS Cases (And How to Fight Back)

1. General Neglect

This means CPS believes a child’s basic needs like food, clothing, supervision, or medical care aren’t being met. In higher-income areas like Chino Hills or Upland, these allegations often come from misunderstandings (e.g., leaving a child home alone, medical disagreements, or school attendance issues).

How to Defend It:
Prove that your child’s needs are being met. Your attorney may present evidence of school attendance, medical records, living conditions, and community support. In many cases, CPS mistakes temporary hardship or parenting choices for neglect.

2. Physical Abuse

These cases usually involve visible injuries like bruises, broken bones, or burns. A hospital or teacher might report a concern even if the injury was accidental.

How to Defend It:
Medical experts can help prove that injuries were not abuse (e.g., sports injuries, medical conditions, or accidents). Photos, witness statements, and expert evaluations are key to defending these claims.

3. Sexual Abuse

These are the most serious and emotionally charged allegations. Even one statement from a child or someone else can lead to CPS removing your child and filing a court case.

How to Defend It:
Work with a lawyer immediately. Your attorney may challenge unreliable reports, demand forensic interviews, and bring in experts to show the allegations are false, mistaken, or unsupported by evidence.

4. Emotional Abuse

This refers to behavior that CPS believes is damaging a child’s mental or emotional health, such as yelling, threats, or verbal cruelty.

How to Defend It:
These cases are often vague. An attorney can challenge the lack of evidence or show that CPS is misinterpreting normal family conflict. Counseling records and psychological evaluations can help defend your parenting.

5. Substance Abuse Allegations

CPS may get involved if they believe a parent is using drugs or alcohol while caring for children. This could come from a police report, a failed drug test, or even anonymous tips.

How to Defend It:
Your attorney may recommend immediate drug testing, counseling, or rehab—especially if you’re already working on recovery. Clean test results and evidence of responsible parenting go a long way in court.

6. Domestic Violence Allegations

If there’s violence between adults in the home, even if the child isn’t hurt, CPS may argue the child is in danger simply by witnessing it.

How to Defend It:
Your attorney may use police reports, protective orders, or counseling records to show that steps have been taken to protect the child. If you are not the person accused of abuse, you may still need to prove you are keeping your child safe.

FAQs: CPS Investigations in San Bernardino County

How long does a CPS investigation take in San Bernardino County?

CPS has about 30 days to finish its investigation, but they can extend it. During that time, they may visit your home, talk to your child, and contact teachers, doctors, or others. You do not have to answer questions or let them into your home without a court order or emergency.

Can CPS take my child without a court order in California?

Yes, but only in emergency situations. CPS can remove a child without a judge’s approval if they believe the child is in immediate danger. But a judge must review the case within 48 court hours, so it’s important to act quickly and get legal help immediately.

What services does CPS offer to families in San Bernardino County?

CPS may offer services such as:

Parenting classes
Domestic violence programs
Drug and alcohol counseling
Mental health support
Family maintenance services

Some services are voluntary. Others are required by the court. A lawyer can explain what’s mandatory and how to complete your case plan the right way.

How can I get my children back from CPS in San Bernardino?

You must:

Follow the court’s instructions and complete your case plan
Attend all hearings and visits
Show that your home is safe and your situation has improved

The sooner you work with a San Bernardino CPS lawyer, the better your chance of getting your children back quickly. Reunification is the goal in most cases—but you need to take the right legal steps.

What is a CACI hearing and why does it matter?

CACI stands for Child Abuse Central Index. If CPS decides you abused or neglected a child even without criminal charges they can put your name on this list. Being on the list can affect your job, your reputation, and your future.

You have the right to request a CACI grievance hearing within 30 days. A lawyer can help you challenge CPS’s decision and keep your name off the list.

Call a San Bernardino CPS Defense Lawyer Before It’s Too Late

If you live in Rancho Cucamonga, Redlands, Chino Hills, Upland, or anywhere in San Bernardino County, and you’ve been contacted by CPS, take it seriously. These cases move fast, and your parental rights can be affected within days. A mistake now can lead to long-term separation or court orders that are hard to reverse.

You have the right to stay silent. You have the right to an attorney. And you have the right to fight for your family.

Let an experienced San Bernardino juvenile dependency attorney help you understand your rights, build a defense, and get your children back.