PARENTAL RIGHTS / CHINS (CHILD IN NEED OF SERVICES)

Some of the most heated disputes between parents concern what each believes is right for the child. A parent’s rights are some of the most carefully protected rights in our legal system. A parent’s privileges cannot be terminated or significantly modified without first being subjected to proper legal proceedings. At Stoffel Law, LLC, we approach each of these sensitive cases with the sole goal of protecting your parental rights.

How can Stoffel Law, LLC help with your parental rights or CHINS case?

Stoffel Law, LLC handles parental rights disputes throughout Indianapolis as well as the following areas of family law:

• Protective Orders / Domestic Violence
• Guardianship
• Adoption

Why Stoffel Law, LLC?

When a parent is facing an investigation by the Department of Child Services (“DCS”); or, when a parent’s new spouse is seeking a step-parent adoption, the child’s other parent will understandably have many questions and concerns.

Stoffel Law, LLC understands the emotional stress these cases can cause, which is why we will push to maintain amicable relations between you and your co-parent. We are committed to providing the representation you need to achieve what is best for you, your child and your relationship with your co-parent.

Child in need of services in Indiana

A child in need of services (CHINS) is a child under the age of 18 who are neglected or abused, AND who are not getting care or treatment that the child needs.

CHINS proceedings are not criminal proceedings, so the parent cannot be incarcerated, fined, or put on probation. However, the parent may have to pay for treatment costs and participate in other services ordered by the court.

The child can be a CHINS if the child:

• is seriously endangered due to injury caused by something the parents did or did not do;
• is living in a home where illegal drugs are being manufactured;
• is a danger to himself or herself or to others;
• is repeatedly disruptive in school and parents do not participate in the disciplinary proceedings;
• is a missing child;
• is a victim of a sex offense; and/or
• is born with disorders caused by the mother drinking alcohol or taking drugs during pregnancy

If you or your spouse are facing a CHINS proceeding, are under investigation by  DCS, or believe that your child may be the subject of a step-parent adoption, you must be sure to protect your parental privileges. Stoffel Law, LLC will fight for the preservation of your family and your rights.

Need more information? Click here to arrange a free parental rights consultation or call (317) 674-8222.