Massachusetts Child Custody Dispute

Summary

The user is a mother from Massachusetts who is facing a child custody dispute with the state. The state took custody of her daughter due to an incident at school. The user has been actively involved in her daughters life, attending school events, medical appointments, and more. She has documented these activities and presented them to her lawyer and the court. However, she feels that her case is not progressing, and the new Department of Children and Families (DCF) attorney has not taken any action on her case. Her next court date is in October 2023.

Full Conversation

The state of mass has custody of my daughter for no reason.
What were the reasons given by the state for taking custody of your daughter? In Massachusetts, child custody decisions are made based on the best interests of the child.
Because she said bad words in school
What actions have you taken so far to regain custody of your daughter?

In Massachusetts, the court considers the child's education, physical and emotional health when deciding custody.
Therapy,
That's a good step. Have you consulted with a lawyer about your case? In Massachusetts, a lawyer can help you understand your rights and navigate the custody process.
Yes but doesnt feel like nothing is being done
What specific actions has your lawyer taken to help you regain custody of your daughter?
She told me that dcf thinks i am a unfit mother. I have been taking care or my daughter for 6 years
What evidence has DCF provided to support their claim that you're an unfit mother? In Massachusetts, DCF must provide clear and convincing evidence of parental unfitness.
Nothing. That i dont put my daughter first before my husband. My daughter always comes first.
What steps has your lawyer suggested you take to counter DCF's claim?

In Massachusetts, demonstrating a stable home environment and active involvement in your child's life can help counter claims of unfitness.
Nothing
What evidence can you provide to show that you prioritize your daughter's needs over your husband's? In Massachusetts, demonstrating active involvement in your child's life can help counter claims of unfitness.
I bring her to school and get her ready. I do everything for her.
What other evidence can you provide to show your active involvement and prioritization of your daughter's needs? In Massachusetts, this could include records of attending school events, medical appointments, etc.
I bring her to appts, play dates, going shopping together
That's great. Have you documented these activities? It could serve as evidence of your active involvement in your daughter's life.
Yes
That's good. Have you presented this documentation to your lawyer and the court? In Massachusetts, such evidence can be crucial in custody cases.
Yes
What was the court's response after you presented this documentation?
Nothing. New dcf atty.
What actions has the new DCF attorney taken regarding your case?
Nothing.
What is your lawyer's plan moving forward to address the lack of action from the new DCF attorney?
Who knows
What has been the communication between your lawyer and the new DCF attorney?
Nothing. The new dcf atty was not at court
What is the next scheduled court date for your case?
In october *
What is the name and contact details of the court where your case is being heard?
Newburyport
What is the full name and address of the court in Newburyport where your case is being heard?