Human Services Agency

Washoe County Human Services Agency Child Protective Services (CPS) investigates reports of suspected child abuse or neglect as required by Nevada law. CPS focuses on child safety and family support.

CPS cases are handled in Family Court as civil matters. Law enforcement may conduct a separate criminal investigation, but arrest and charging decisions are made by police and the District Attorney, not CPS.

How is a Report Made?

• Anyone can report suspected abuse or neglect.
• Certain professionals (such as medical or healthcare workers, law enforcement, teachers, clergy, and foster care and daycare providers) are legally required to report.
• Nevada law does not allow CPS to reveal who made the report.

If you suspect child abuse and neglect is occurring, please call 1 (833) 900-SAFE (7233).

Types of Abuse and Neglect

Under Nevada law (NRS 432B.020), child abuse or neglect includes:

• Physical Abuse (non-accidental harm)
• Emotional Abuse ("Mental Injury")
• Sexual abuse, exploitation or statutory sexual seduction
• Negligent treatment (failure to provide proper care, supervision, food, shelter, medical care, or education)

A parent or guardian is responsible if they cause or allow abuse or neglect to occur.

Is Discipline Considered Abuse?

• Reasonable discipline is allowed.
• Discipline cannot leave an injury.
• Factors considered include:
  • The child’s age
  • Frequency of discipline
  • Use of objects
  • The child’s physical or emotional condition

What a Case Worker May Do

A case worker may:

• Interview the child (without parental permission if necessary)
• Interview parents, caregivers, and others
• Review medical, school, or law enforcement information

Possible Outcomes

After the investigation, CPS may:

• Close the case (unsubstantiated)
• Offer voluntary services
• Open a case plan with court involvement
• Place the child in protective custody if safety requires it

What If My Child Is Removed?

If immediate safety concerns exist, CPS or law enforcement may place a child in protective custody.

• A hearing must occur within 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays).
• Children may be placed:
  • In licensed foster care
  • In emergency shelter
  • With an approved relative

 Legal Representation

• You will receive notice of court hearings.
• You may hire an attorney.
• A public defender may be appointed after the initial hearing if you qualify.

 Visitation

• You have the right to visit your child.
• A visitation plan will be created.

Visits may be supervised depending on the circumstances.

Types of Court Hearings

Court hearings may include:

• Protective Custody Hearing
• Adjudicatory Hearing
• Evidentiary Hearing (trial)
• Dispositional Hearing
• Review Hearing (about 6 months after removal)
• Permanency Hearing (within 12 months)

Permanency Planning

At the Permanency Hearing, the court decides the long-term plan, which may include:

• Reunification
• Adoption
• Guardianship
• Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement (APPLA)

Case Plan & Responsibilities

CPS typically aims for reunification unless the court orders otherwise.

You will work with a case worker to create a case plan outlining:

• Services to complete
• Steps to ensure child safety
• Goals for reunification

Your Progress Matters

• Maintain contact with your case worker.
• Participate in required services.
• Make consistent progress toward case plan goals.

 Making substantial progress is critical to having your child returned.

Native American Families

Families affiliated with a federally recognized tribe may have additional protections under the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).

If You Disagree With Your Case Worker

• First, discuss concerns directly with your case worker.
• If needed, contact the supervisor.
• You may also speak with your attorney or raise concerns in court.

Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)

The court may appoint a CASA volunteer to represent your child’s best interests and report to the judge.