You have rights and they matter. The foster care system counts on you not knowing them. If you live in Florida, here’s what you need to know right now.
1. Stay Calm.
2. Be careful what you share. Saying less is best.
Your Rights Include:
- The right to remain silent. Anything you say or do can be used against you.
- The right to record (Warning: Be mindful when recording. Having interactions recorded can be very helpful but recordings can also be used against you.)
- The right to have a lawyer present during the investigation.
- The right to have a friend or family present for support.
- Know the allegations against you.
- Take a second, confirmation drug test at a testing facility.
- Say no to services that will not help you.
- Review all paperwork with a lawyer before signing
DCF Should Do Everything Possible to:
- Keep your children with you.
- Place your children with family if they have to leave home for a time.