Find the #1 Best Lawyers for Parents Against CPS in Bakersfield
HomeFind the #1 Best Lawyers for Parents Against CPS in BakersfieldEXPERT ADVOCACY FOR PARENTS IN JUVENILE DEPENDENCY CASES
Experienced Lawyers for Parents Against CPS
When CPS threatens your family, you need experienced lawyers for parents against CPS who understand your rights. Your parental rights and family unity are at stake. As dedicated lawyers for parents against CPS, Michelle Trujillo and her team have successfully represented hundreds of parents in Kern County’s dependency courts. With over 30 years of exclusive juvenile law experience, Michelle’s unique perspective as a former foster parent and current adoptive parent allows her to provide empathetic, effective representation to help you navigate this challenging process and fight for your family.
Case Strategy Development
Comprehensive analysis of CPS allegations and evidence to build a strong defense for parents.
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In-Court Representation
Skilled advocacy at all stages, from initial detention hearings through jurisdictional and dispositional proceedings.
Reunification Plan Assistance
Expert guidance in developing and implementing family reunification plans to meet court requirements.
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Appeals and Writs
Experienced representation for challenging unfavorable decisions, including arguments before higher courts.
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Parents… Make sure your child comes home.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR RIGHTS AS A PARENT
Navigating the Juvenile Dependency System
As trusted lawyers for parents against CPS, we ensure you understand your specific rights and responsibilities. Michelle Trujillo guides parents through each stage of the process, providing the experienced advocacy you need when facing CPS allegations.
As a parent in a juvenile dependency case, you have specific rights and responsibilities. Michelle Trujillo guides parents through each stage of the process:
• Initial Response: Advising you on how to interact with CPS during their investigation.
• Detention Hearing: Advocating for your child to remain in your care or be placed with family members.
• Jurisdictional Hearing: Contesting false allegations and presenting evidence in your favor.
• Dispositional Hearing: Fighting for appropriate services and reasonable reunification plans.
• Review Hearings: Demonstrating your progress and advocating for your family’s reunification.
Throughout this process, Michelle works tirelessly to protect your parental rights and pursue the best possible outcome for your family.
EXPERT ATTORNEYS FOR PARENTS AGAINST CPS
PROTECTING PARENTS’ RIGHTS AGAINST CPS
As experienced lawyers for parents against CPS, we understand that facing a CPS investigation can be overwhelming. California’s Dependency Court System provides specific rights to parents, including:
- The right to be represented by lawyers for parents against CPS
- The right to present evidence in your defense
- The right to question witnesses
- The right to request family reunification services
- The right to appeal unfavorable decisions
Understanding Your Constitutional Rights as a parent is crucial when dealing with CPS. Our team ensures these rights are protected throughout your case.
EXPERT ATTORNEYS FOR PARENTS AGAINST CPS
CHOOSING THE RIGHT REPRESENTATION
What to Look for in Lawyers for Parents Against CPS
- Experience specifically in dependency court
- Track record of successful reunifications
- Understanding of CPS procedures and tactics
- Ability to respond quickly to emergency situations
- Knowledge of local court systems and personnel
When selecting lawyers for parents against CPS, consider their:
- Years of exclusive dependency practice
- Familiarity with local CPS departments
- Success rate in similar cases
- Approach to client communication
- Understanding of family dynamics
As the most experienced attorney for parents against CPS, Michelle Trujillo checks all the boxes. Give Michelle a call today for a consultation!
HOW TO WORK WITH LAWYERS AGAINST CPS
IMMEDIATE STEPS TO TAKE
Working With Lawyers for Parents Against CPS
- Document Everything
- Follow Legal Advice
- Maintain Communication
- Attend All Hearings
- Complete Required Programs
Our team of lawyers for parents against CPS will guide you through each of these crucial steps, ensuring you’re taking the right actions to protect your parental rights.
Foster Parents & Caretakers… Make sure your voice is heard.
YOU’RE ALLOWED RESPRESENTATION TOO
Foster Parents and Caretakers
As a foster parent or caretaker, you play a crucial role in a child’s life during dependency proceedings. Michelle Trujillo understands the unique challenges you face and offers expert legal representation to protect your rights and the best interests of the child in your care.
Key services for foster parents and caretakers:
- De Facto Parent Status – After caring for a child for at least six months, you may be eligible for de facto parent status. This allows you to have a more significant voice in court proceedings.
- Assistance with Caregiver Forms – Michelle can help you effectively communicate important information about the child’s well-being to the court.
- Advocacy for Your Perspective – As a caregiver, you have valuable insights into the child’s needs. Michelle ensures your voice is heard in court.
- Prospective Adoptive Parent Status – If parental rights have been terminated, Michelle can assist you in securing your role as a prospective adoptive parent.
With Michelle’s experience representing hundreds of foster parents and families, you can trust that your rights and the child’s best interests will be vigorously advocated for in court.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR FAMILY’S CASE
Why Choose Michelle Trujillo?
When facing a juvenile dependency case, your choice of attorney can make a crucial difference in the outcome for your family. Michelle Trujillo brings a unique combination of extensive legal experience and personal insight to every case she handles. Her dedication to juvenile law and her deep understanding of the dependency system set her apart as a premier advocate for families in Kern County. Here’s why Michelle Trujillo is the right choice for your juvenile dependency case:
• 30+ years of exclusive juvenile law experience
• Experience representing parents, children, and caregivers in dependency cases
• Deep understanding of CPS procedures and dependency court processes
• Personal insight as a former foster parent and current adoptive parent
• Fluent in Spanish, ensuring clear communication with all clients
As one of Kern County’s most experienced lawyers for parents against CPS, Michelle Trujillo brings both professional expertise and personal insight to your case. Unlike general practice attorneys who occasionally handle CPS cases, our firm focuses exclusively on juvenile law and helping parents protect their rights against CPS interventions.
Michelle Trujillo’s unparalleled expertise in juvenile dependency law, coupled with her compassionate approach and personal understanding of the system, makes her an invaluable ally for families navigating this challenging process. Her commitment to clear communication and tireless advocacy ensures that your family’s rights and interests are protected every step of the way. With Michelle Trujillo as your attorney, you can face the juvenile dependency system with confidence, knowing you have a dedicated and experienced professional fighting for your family’s future.
WORKING WITH LAWYERS FOR PARENTS AGAINST CPS
STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS
Effective representation against CPS requires a strategic approach:
- Immediate Legal Intervention
- Early involvement of experienced counsel
- Protection of your constitutional rights
- Strategic communication with CPS workers
- Case Building
- Gathering supporting evidence
- Identifying witnesses
- Documenting compliance with court orders
- Court Preparation
- Understanding hearing procedures
- Preparing testimony
- Developing compelling arguments
Only an experienced lawyer for parents against CPS and the juvenile court system can have the expertise necessary to fulfill all of these steps efficiently and effectively in order to win your case and keep your family together. Don’t leave your family’s future in the hands of an attorney that doesn’t specialize in cases against Child Protective Services. Call Michelle today!
Frequently asked questions about Juvenile Criminal Matters
How do juvenile and adult criminal law differ?
Juvenile court focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment. Proceedings are more private, and terminology differs. For example, juveniles are “adjudicated delinquent” rather than found “guilty,” and petitions are “found true” instead of resulting in “convictions.”
What should I do if my child has been arrested?
If your child has been arrested, remain calm and contact an experienced juvenile defense attorney immediately. Neither you nor your child should speak with law enforcement without an attorney. Michelle Trujillo can provide immediate guidance and protection of your child’s rights.
What happens at the initial detention hearing?
The initial detention hearing determines if your child needs to be detained or can be released to your custody. Unlike adult cases, juveniles aren’t entitled to bail. The court decides based on factors like the severity of the alleged offense and the child’s home environment.
What is a readiness hearing in juvenile court?
A readiness hearing is when the attorneys and the minor decide whether to proceed to trial or accept a plea deal. This is an opportunity to review the case’s progress and discuss potential resolutions.
What is a jurisdictional hearing?
A jurisdictional hearing is similar to a trial in adult court, but without a jury. The judge determines if the allegations in the petition are true. If found true, the case proceeds to a disposition hearing.
What happens at a disposition hearing?
The disposition hearing is similar to sentencing in adult court. However, juveniles are not sentenced to jail time but rather to rehabilitation programs. In the California Judicial System, the focus is on addressing the underlying issues that led to the delinquent behavior.
Can a juvenile be tried as an adult?
In some serious cases, the prosecutor may file a motion to try your child as an adult or to have your child transferred from a juvenile detention facility to a state prison. Michelle Trujillo has extensive experience in these hearings and works diligently to keep cases in juvenile court whenever possible.
What are the potential consequences of a juvenile criminal case?
Consequences can include probation, placement in juvenile hall or a residential program, community service, counseling, or other rehabilitative programs. Unlike adult convictions, the emphasis is on reform rather than punishment.
Can a juvenile criminal record be sealed or "expunged?"
Yes, in most cases, juvenile records are automatically sealed when probation is terminated. This means the record won’t be accessible to the public, including potential employers or schools.
How long does a typical juvenile case take from start to finish?
If statutory timelines are followed, a case can be resolved within a month. However, factors like discovery needs and time waivers can extend this timeline. More serious charges typically take longer to resolve.
Do parents have rights in their child's juvenile case?
While parents have the right to be present and heard in court, the attorney ultimately represents the child. Michelle strives to include parents in the process, but the child makes the final decision.
What's the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in juvenile court?
While the terms misdemeanor and felony are used, they don’t have the same implications as in adult court. The main difference lies in the potential consequences and the possibility of transfer to adult court for certain felonies.
Can my child be detained before the trial?
Yes, a child can be detained if the court believes it’s necessary for public safety or to ensure the child’s appearance in court. Michelle works to secure your child’s release whenever possible and appropriate.
What should I bring to my first meeting with Michelle Trujillo?
Bring any documents related to the case, such as police reports or court papers. Also, prepare a list of questions you have about the case and the legal process. Be sure to consult with Michelle’s secretary, as she will guide you on what additional information might be needed.
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