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What’s happening with DCF during COVID-19?

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On May 22, 2020
(Copy and paste the link above into your web browser for a YouTube video on this subject) Due to COVID-19, there’s been a lot of issues that have arisen lately with DCF cases. The disease has complicated things, as there have been disputes about whether a kid is at too high risk of contracting the […]
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In MASS what is a “mandated reporter” for DCF/DSS

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On February 12, 2018
In part, a mandated reported who in his or her professional capacity has “reasonable cause” to believe that a child is suffering physical or emotional injury that results from either (1) abuse inflicted upon the child which causes harm or substantial risk of harm to the child’s health or welfare( includes sexual abuse); (2)neglect( includes […]
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What is “kinship care” or ” kinship placement” in MA DCF/DSS

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On February 12, 2018
  • dcf, dss, foster care, kinship, taunton
If DCF decides to place children away from the parents or guardians DCF policy is supposed to look for “family first” as placement such as grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins( also to a certain extent family friends, teachers etc.).  The reason is that the transition will be easier for the child.  You should at least […]
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Ten Tips for talking to social worker, court investigator and guardian ad litem

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On February 8, 2018
Talking to social workers, court investigators and GAL’s is stressful.  They are looking at you like you are on stage and looking to see if you are a loving, stable and thoughtful parent. A few hints are:  keep focus on children not your or significant other or ex if you need to make focus on […]
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What Standard Is Used if Child is in DCF placement regarding school

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On February 6, 2018
There is relatively new law regarding children in foster care or residential treatment.  There is a presumption that child should go to the same school( school of origin) and DCF has a meeting to make this determination.   Parents and children should have a voice as many times DCF will aim for having child go […]
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Can social media impact your family law case?

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On November 2, 2017
As you probably guessed the answer is YES! Be very careful what you post. I have seen people claim to have no money in front of a judge and be confronted with Facebook posts of expensive vacations or new cars. I have seen many cases where one parent badmouths the other ( and sometimes the […]
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Appealing a Supported 51A in a Mass. DCF Case

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On June 23, 2017
If DCF supports a 51A and you are considering an appeal, be aware that there are requirements and timetables. You’ll need to send a written request within 30 calendar days of the supported decision or of receipt of the decision (if notice of the decision is required). If you are unsure whether or not to […]
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What does the DCF’s bad publicity mean?

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On February 28, 2014
DCF has had very bad publicity recently. Whether the news about DCF is accurate or not, it has changed the landscape of how DCF is handling cases. DCF is much more likely to be more actively involved in families’ lives and the courts have seen a huge increase in the amount of Care and Protections […]
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