Summary
The user is concerned about their nephews who are allegedly being physically abused in their foster care home in Virginia. The user is seeking advice on how to report the abuse and understand the child protection laws in Virginia. The user is also considering gaining custody of the nephews. The user was advised on the legality of corporal punishment in Virginia, the role of the Department of Social Services and the GAL in child protection cases, and was provided with contact information for child advocacy groups and legal aid organizations in Virginia.Full Conversation
My nephews are in foster care and I just received word they are being physically spanked and smacked in the mouth by their foster parents
I'm sorry to hear about this situation. Have you reported this to the local child protective services agency?
Currently trying to reach them
What state are your nephews located in? This will help me provide you with the specific child protection laws and regulations for that area.
They are in virginia
What is the age of your nephews? In Virginia, corporal punishment is allowed but it should not cause injury or be excessive.
* and *
I'm sorry to hear about this. Have you considered seeking legal advice to understand your rights and possible actions in this situation?
I have. I need to get them removed from foster care. I fear for them
Have you contacted a lawyer to discuss the possibility of gaining custody of your nephews?
In Virginia, relatives often have priority in foster care cases.
I have. I live in Georgia and they said it would be up to a year before they could possibly get it approved because of crossing two state lines
What steps have you taken so far in your attempt to gain custody of your nephews?
In general, interstate child custody cases are governed by the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA).
Telling their mother to reach out to social services and the GAL to inform them of the situation
What is the response from social services and the GAL? In Virginia, the Department of Social Services and the GAL play a crucial role in child protection cases.
No one returns calls
That sounds frustrating. Have you tried reaching out to them via email or in person?
I’m having trouble reaching anyone
I'm sorry to hear that. Have you considered reaching out to a local child advocacy group or a legal aid organization for assistance?
Don’t know how to reach any of them
I understand your frustration. Would you like me to provide you with contact information for child advocacy groups or legal aid organizations in Virginia?
Does foster parents have the legal right to physically punish the foster children
In Virginia, corporal punishment is allowed but it should not cause injury or be excessive. If you believe the punishment is excessive, you should report it.
Yes please
Sure, here are some organizations in Virginia that might be able to help:
Legal Aid Justice Center
Phone:(*) *-*
Address: * Preston Ave, Charlottesville, VA *
Website: www.justice4all.orgVirginia Poverty Law Center
Phone:(*) *-*
Address: * E Main St #*, Richmond, VA *
Website: www.vplc.orgIs there anything else I can assist you with?
What do u consider excessive with spanking
Excessive spanking is generally considered any form of physical punishment that causes injury, leaves marks or bruises, or is done in anger. It's important to report any suspected abuse to authorities.
Ok thank you so much. I will see who I can reach with those numbers
Is there anything else I can assist you with?
Just one more question
Sure, feel free to ask your question. I'm here to help.
Is making the foster child swallow dawn dish soap a form of abuse
Yes, making a child swallow dish soap is considered abuse. It's harmful and dangerous. Please report this to your local child protective services immediately.
Thank you. That’s all my questions. You’ve helped me greatly
I'm glad I could assist you. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have more questions in the future. Take care.
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