The Top Mistakes to make in a NJ DYFS case

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you have to deal with the New Jersey Department of
Youth and Family Services (DYFS) then you need to know what to avoid. These are the most common
mistakes people make when they become involved in a case such as this.

1. Thinking the case is no big deal

Most people make this mistake. They believe that the DYFS will go away after a while and
leave them and their family alone. Don’t fall into this trap – this is very rarely, often never
the case. This leads people to make further mistakes which will be outlined in this article.
The most important thing to note is that if the DYFS are investigating you, please take it
seriously. This will stand you in good stead for further down the line.
2. Hire a Lawyer
When people don’t take the case seriously enough, they often forgo their right to hire a
lawyer, thinking that the case will go away and their hiring of a lawyer will make everything
more complicated. This is definitely not the case – hiring a lawyer can actually help you. A lot
of people hold the assumption that hiring a lawyer will make them look guilty when actually
it’s just an incredibly smart move if you want to do what’s best for you and your family. The
DYFS can and will turn your life upside down, it’s important to have an impartial figure in
your life to see you through the tough times. Which brings us to…
3. Fighting with the DYFS
It is often tempting to get into a fight with the department – after all they are uprooting your
entire life. Particularly if you are desperate to prove your innocence, becoming passionate
(often angry) may leave you thinking it will show your innocence. However the DYFS has
extraordinary power and can upset things further if you don’t cooperate fully.
4. Using resources that the DYFS suggest
Often the DYFS will suggest certain providers for you to carry out certain evaluations. It can
be tempting to go with this provider as it seems easier and many people may think this will
make them look more cooperative. However, you don’t have to use the providers that they
suggest, you have the right to go out and find your own. This is where your lawyer will come
in very handy – they can take care of this process for you, finding you a reputable provider
who will do the best for you. Often the DYFS-suggested providers can take things the wrong
way, blow things out of proportion or even be swayed by the department and their opinion
of the case.

Following this tips will help you avoid the most common mistakes that people make when
getting involved with a DYFS case. If you do find yourself in this situation, remember that
staying calm and thinking logically and rationally is the best course of action.