San Bernardino County CPS Investigations and Social Worker Interviews

Protecting Your Rights When Children and Family Services Comes to Your Door

If a social worker from Children and Family Services (CFS) in San Bernardino County contacts you, visits your home, or asks to speak with your child, you are under investigation. This is a serious situation. What you say or do during this early stage can impact your entire case—including whether your child stays in your home or is removed.

Our experienced San Bernardino CPS defense attorneys represent parents, guardians, and relatives during every stage of a CFS investigation. Whether you’re in San Bernardino, Fontana, Ontario, Rialto, Rancho Cucamonga, or Victorville, we are here to protect your parental rights and guide you through the process.

Why Is CFS Investigating Me?

CFS begins an investigation when someone reports suspected child abuse, neglect, or risk of harm. This could be a school staff member, hospital, neighbor, law enforcement officer, or anyone who believes a child may be unsafe.

Common reasons for a CFS investigation in San Bernardino County include:

• Allegations of physical abuse or unexplained injuries
• Suspected neglect or poor living conditions
• Domestic violence in the home
• Drug or alcohol use by a parent or caregiver
• Concerns about mental health or supervision

Even if the allegations are false or exaggerated, you need to take them seriously. CFS has the power to remove children from their home and file a petition in juvenile dependency court.

What Happens During a Social Worker Visit?

A CFS social worker may show up at your home unannounced and ask to:

• Speak with you about the allegations
• Interview your child alone
• Inspect your home for safety hazards
• Take photos
• Ask you to take a drug test
• Request names of other household members

They are trained to observe everything—from how you speak to your child to the condition of your home. Even a minor concern can be documented and used as evidence in court.

Do I Have to Let the Social Worker In?

No. You are not legally required to let a social worker into your home unless they have a warrant or a court order. However, refusing access may cause CFS to escalate the case and request emergency removal of your child.

Before speaking to a social worker or allowing them into your home, contact a San Bernardino CPS lawyer. We can advise you on how to respond and help protect your rights from the very beginning.

Should I Let My Child Be Interviewed Alone?

CFS may ask to speak with your child in private. While this is allowed under California law, you have the right to ask that the interview take place at school or a neutral setting. Your child may feel nervous or confused during these conversations—and even innocent remarks can be taken out of context. You can also ask that your attorney be present! You don’t have to do the interview alone ever.

We strongly recommend speaking with a juvenile dependency attorney in San Bernardino County before allowing any interviews to happen.

What Happens After the Investigation?

The outcome of the investigation may lead to:

• Case closure if CFS finds no evidence of abuse or neglect
• Voluntary services, such as parenting classes or drug treatment
• A petition filed in juvenile dependency court, which can result in court-ordered services, custody changes, or even termination of parental rights

Once a petition is filed, your case will be heard in juvenile dependency court in San Bernardino, located at:

San Bernardino Justice Center – Juvenile Division
900 East Gilbert Street
San Bernardino, CA 92415

How We Help During a CFS Investigation

Our legal team steps in early to:

• Communicate with CFS on your behalf
• Prepare you for home visits and interviews
• Protect your child’s privacy
• Push back against unlawful or unreasonable demands
• Work to prevent your case from going to court

Call Now If You Are Under CFS Investigation in San Bernardino County

If a CFS social worker has contacted you, do not wait. Your actions during the first few days can affect the outcome of your case. Call now for a confidential consultation with a trusted San Bernardino CPS defense lawyer.

We serve parents and families throughout San Bernardino County, including San Bernardino, Rialto, Ontario, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Victorville, Redlands, and nearby communities. Let us help you protect your family from the start.