Family & Safety

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Winning a DCFS appeal

If you believe that the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)  has wrongfully “indicated” you of child abuse or neglect, you may request an “appeal.” This means that an administrative law judge will review the finding for any errors.

In an appeal, DCFS has the burden of proving that they were right to indicate you. You don't have to prove that you are innocent of abuse or neglect. If you win the appeal, your name will be removed from the State Central Register (SCR). 

You may represent yourself in an indicated appeal. Or you can seek legal representation from an attorney.

Your chances of winning an appeal against DCFS depends on how strong the evidence is against you. A lawyer should be able to give you an opinion on this. For specific legal advice, you can contact Ascend Justice.

Last full review by a subject matter expert
April 05, 2023
Last revised by staff
May 08, 2023

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Worried about doing this on your own?  You may be able to get free legal help.