5 Mistakes Parents Make During a CPS Investigation in Texas

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 18:30:33 GMT

Receiving a call from Child Protective Services (CPS) can be frightening. Many parents have never dealt with CPS before and are unsure of what to do—or what not to do.

Unfortunately, mistakes made during the early stages of a CPS investigation can have lasting consequences. Understanding your rights and approaching the situation carefully can make a significant difference.

Here are five common mistakes parents make during a CPS investigation in Texas.

1. Panicking and Reacting Emotionally

Learning that someone has made a report to CPS is upsetting. Many parents feel angry, embarrassed, confused, or frightened.

While those emotions are understandable, reacting impulsively can make the situation more difficult. Heated confrontations, angry messages, or emotional outbursts may be misinterpreted and can complicate the investigation.

Instead, remain calm, gather information, and seek legal guidance if necessary.

2. Assuming CPS Will Automatically See the Truth

Many parents believe that if they have done nothing wrong, the investigation will quickly resolve itself.

Unfortunately, CPS investigations are often more complicated than that. Caseworkers must evaluate allegations, interview witnesses, review records, and make recommendations based on the information available to them.

Even when allegations are unfounded, misunderstandings and incomplete information can create problems.

Taking the matter seriously from the beginning is important.

3. Making Statements Without Understanding the Consequences

Parents often feel pressured to immediately answer every question asked during an investigation.

However, statements made during interviews can become part of the case record and may later be referenced in court proceedings.

Before making significant statements regarding allegations, parenting practices, household conditions, or other sensitive matters, it is often wise to understand your rights and seek legal advice.

Cooperation and caution can exist at the same time.

4. Ignoring Court Orders or Service Plans

If CPS becomes involved beyond the initial investigation, parents may be asked to participate in services such as:

Counseling
Parenting classes
Drug testing
Psychological evaluations
Family-based services

Whether you agree with the allegations or not, failing to comply with court orders or approved service plans can negatively affect the outcome of the case.

If concerns arise regarding a service plan, discuss them with your attorney rather than simply ignoring the requirements.

5. Waiting Too Long to Seek Legal Advice

One of the most common mistakes parents make is waiting until the situation has escalated before consulting an attorney.

Early legal guidance can help parents:

Understand the allegations
Learn about their rights
Prepare for interviews and hearings
Avoid unnecessary mistakes
Develop a strategy for protecting their family

The earlier a parent understands the process, the better equipped they are to navigate it successfully.

What Should You Do If CPS Contacts You?

If CPS contacts you regarding an investigation:

Stay calm.
Be respectful and professional.
Take the matter seriously.
Document important communications.
Understand your rights before making significant decisions.
Seek legal guidance if you have concerns about the investigation or your family's future.

Experienced CPS Representation in Williamson County

A CPS investigation does not automatically mean a parent has done something wrong. However, it does mean that important decisions may be made that affect your family and your relationship with your children.

At Goddard & Hoing, P.C., we help parents throughout Williamson County navigate CPS investigations and court proceedings while protecting their rights and advocating for their families.

If CPS has contacted you or your family, contact our office to schedule a confidential consultation.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and individuals should consult an attorney regarding their specific circumstances.

Top Reasons to Work With a Probate Lawyer

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 13:51:02 GMT

A probate lawyer is a legal professional who is in charge of administering the estate of a person after they pass away. The process of probating an estate requires that the distribution of an estate be performed in a manner that's valid according to the courts. Below, we consider the top reasons why you should work with a probate lawyer.

Speed Up the Process

The estate probate process can be quite lengthy. The probate lawyer prepares necessary pleadings for the court, navigates your probate case through the complicated court process, and provides you with the legal documents you need to assist with the disposing of your loved one's estate. However, having a probate lawyer to help you through the process helps reduce the risk of complications that can slow down the process, thus allowing beneficiaries to access property, assets, or investments in a more timely manner.

Reduce the Risk of Conflict

When a person passes away, it's usually not surprising to find someone who will come forward to make a claim against the estate. This usually leads to conflicts as one member of the family feels like they are entitled to a specific portion of the estate but are not mentioned in the will. In some cases, beneficiaries might feel that their estate isn't being handled correctly. The good news is that hiring a probate lawyer can help eliminate claims that involve using the estate for personal gain.

Prevent Complications

There are many complications that can arise when authenticating a last will and testament. For instance, if the documents are not filled properly in court, then these documents will be rejected, and the court won't accept them. A probate lawyer has the expertise to know what needs to be filed and how to file them so that the case moves forward without any tedious paperwork on your part.

Navigate the Probate Process More Smoothly

If your loved one has passed away while owning real property, you must probate the estate in the state of Texas. A probate attorney understands the bumps in the road and will be better able to assist you with this process.

If you have been wondering whether to hire a probate lawyer, the benefits above should convince you as to why this is a good idea. When you're ready to hire the right lawyer, get in touch with us.

The Fine Print