Hospital Hold For Safety

Summary

In Georgia, hospitals can hold a child for safety until DFCS arrives if abuse is reported. DFCS can take temporary custody without a court order if the child is in immediate danger, but must obtain a court order within 72 hours. Parents have rights to be informed and can request legal representation. If unable to afford an attorney, a court-appointed one can be requested. During the 72-hour period, DFCS investigates the report, assesses safety, and schedules an emergency hearing.

Full Conversation

can the ER keep myself and my child at the hospital while waiting in DFCS to allow us to leave if my child reported abuse in another parents home and not mine
****, the ER can keep you and your child at the hospital for safety reasons until DFCS arrives, especially if there's a report of abuse. This is to ensure the child's immediate safety. Where are you located? This can help me provide more specific information.
Ga
****, in Georgia, the ER can indeed keep you and your child for safety reasons until DFCS (Division of Family and Children Services) arrives, especially if there's a report of abuse. This ensures the child's immediate safety while the situation is assessed.
Is there anything specific you'd like to know about the process or your rights during this time?
what are my rights to be kept informed while this is happening
In Georgia, you have specific rights to be kept informed during this process:
- Right to be informed about the reason for the hold.
- Right to receive updates about the status of the DFCS investigation.
- Right to have your questions answered by hospital staff and DFCS.
Do you have concerns about the communication you've received so far?
Does DFCS need a court order to keep us or my child
In Georgia, DFCS can take temporary custody of a child without a court order if they believe the child is in immediate danger. However, they must obtain a court order soon after to continue holding the child.
Do you have any specific concerns about the process or need more information on your rights?
yes
****, here are some important points you should be aware of:
- DFCS must seek a court order to continue custody beyond the initial emergency period.
- You have the right to be informed about the process and the reasons for custody.
- You can request legal representation for yourself and your child.
Would you like more information on how to request legal representation?
yes
Case Rating: *.
****, here are the steps to request legal representation in Georgia:
*. Contact Georgia Legal Aid or a private attorney.
*. Inform DFCS of your desire for legal representation.
*. Request an attorney during any court proceedings.
Would you like more details on contacting Georgia Legal Aid?
will an attorney be court appointed
In Georgia, if you cannot afford an attorney, the court can appoint one for you, especially in cases involving child custody or abuse allegations. Here are your options:
- Request a court-appointed attorney during the initial hearing.
- Inform DFCS or the court of your inability to afford a private attorney.
Would you like more information on the process of securing a court-appointed attorney?
how long is a temporary hold without a court order in ga
In Georgia, DFCS can take temporary custody of a child without a court order if the child is in immediate danger. They must obtain a court order within * hours to continue holding the child.
Would you like more information on what happens during this *-hour period?
yes
During the *-hour period:
- DFCS Investigation: DFCS will investigate the abuse report.
- Safety Assessment: They will assess the child's safety and well-being.
- Emergency Hearing: A court hearing will be scheduled to determine if continued custody is necessary.
Any other specific concerns or questions about the *-hour period?