I Got a CACI Notice From San Bernardino CFS. What Does It Mean?

It means Children and Family Services has found an allegation substantiated and reported you to the California Child Abuse Central Index. You generally have a short window to challenge that listing. Read the deadline on the notice today, because missing it can cost you the hearing.

What a substantiated finding is

After investigating a referral, a county agency classifies it. A substantiated report means the investigator concluded that abuse or severe neglect more likely than not occurred. Under California Penal Code section 11169, the agency must forward substantiated reports to the Department of Justice and notify the person listed.

This can happen even if no dependency case is filed and no criminal charges are brought. Many parents do not realize a CFS investigation has ended in a listing until the notice arrives.

Why it matters

A CACI listing can follow you into background checks for work and volunteer roles involving children. It can matter for:

• Foster care, adoption, and relative placement approvals
• Childcare and school employment
• Certain licensing and healthcare positions
• Family court disputes, where the finding may be raised

If your work depends on a license or clearance, get advice about reporting duties before you respond to anyone.

How to challenge it

The notice explains how to request a grievance hearing. The usual deadline is 30 calendar days, but rely on the date and instructions in your own notice.

1. Save the notice and envelope. Note the date you received it.
2. Calendar the deadline. Submit the request early, and keep proof of delivery.
3. Use the form provided. Send it exactly where the notice directs.
4. Request the file. The process generally allows you to obtain the investigative materials, subject to redactions.
5. Gather evidence. Records, witness statements, and expert opinions can matter, especially in medical allegations.
6. Do not contact the reporter. Reporter identity is confidential, and contact could create new problems.

At the hearing, the county generally must support its finding by the preponderance of the evidence. If the listing is overturned, the county must take steps to have it removed.

When a court case changes the analysis

If a court has already decided the underlying allegation, your right to a grievance hearing may be limited. Tell your lawyer about any juvenile court, family court, or criminal case before filing. A sustained dependency petition at 860 E. Gilbert Street can directly affect what you may challenge.

Avoiding a listing in the first place

If CFS is still investigating and has not issued a notice, act now. Counsel can communicate with the worker and submit evidence before the agency decides its finding. The best time to address a CACI problem is before the finding is made.

FAQs

Is a CACI listing a criminal record? No, but it can appear in background checks for certain positions.

Can I ignore it if CFS closed the case? No. A closed referral can still result in a listing.

What if I never received notice? Talk to a lawyer promptly about your options.

Does an inconclusive finding go on CACI? California currently lists substantiated reports only.

Did you receive a CACI notice?

Call 866-811-4255 before your deadline passes. ALL Trial Lawyers can review the notice and explain your options.

Disclaimer: This article is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case depends on its facts.