How to Be Prepared for an Investigation
A child in your family child care program is injured and the child's parent accuses you or a family member of deliberately hurting the child.
The next day you receive a phone call from either the police, child protection or your child care licensor, announcing that they are conducting an investigation into the incident.
Being told you are under investigation strikes fear into the hearts of child care providers. This is a time of intense stress. Child care providers are worried about the health of the child, as well as the possibility of losing their livelihood.
The first thing you need is expert advice on how to protect yourself. Here are links to two articles, written by criminal defense attorney Frank S. Perri, that can help.
The first article, “How to Prepare for an Investigation” examines what to expect if a state agency investigates you for an accident involving a child in your home. It includes tips for properly preparing for questioning and an accident reminder checklist you can use as a tool to get started.
The second article, “You’re Being Investigated… Now What?” explains what you can expect if you are formally investigated by a state agency for possible abuse and neglect of a child. In this situation you may also face criminal prosecution. The article also describes your rights and how to get through an investigation with the least amount of stress.
Reading these two articles can take away some of the stress involved in an investigation.
Tom Copeland – www.tomcopelandblog.com
Image credit: https://www.pediatricsoffranklin.com/resources-and-education/pediatric-care/what-to-do-when-your-toddler-falls/
To learn more, read my book Family Child Care Legal and Insurance Guide.
