What is a dependency case in Florida?
A dependency case is a case DCF brings when it believes a child is unsafe. It is a court case, usually filed by the Florida Department of Children and Families, when a child is alleged to be abused, abandoned, or neglected. Parents have the right to a lawyer, and the court appoints one if a parent cannot afford one.
What "dependency" means in plain language
Many parents hear the word “dependency” for the first time in a courtroom hallway. It simply means a DCF case: a court case, usually brought by the Florida Department of Children and Families, when DCF believes a child is unsafe because of abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
A dependency case is different from a divorce or custody case between two parents. The state is a party, the judge keeps a close eye on the family, and things can move quickly. Understanding the process early helps you prepare for each step.
What happens after DCF removes a child
If a child is removed from the home, Florida law requires a shelter hearing within 24 hours. At that first hearing, a judge looks at whether the child can safely go home for now or needs to stay somewhere else while the case moves forward.
Parents are usually given a case plan. A case plan is a list of tasks, such as parenting classes, evaluations, or treatment. Florida courts aim to reach permanency, meaning a stable, long-term plan for the child, within 12 months of removal. Possible outcomes include:
- Reunification, meaning the child returns to the parent
- Placement with a relative
- Permanent guardianship
- Adoption
For grandparents and relatives who want to help
When a child cannot safely stay with a parent, Florida prefers placement with a safe relative over placement with non-relatives when possible. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other family members often step forward to keep a child connected to the people who love them.
Being a placement means working with DCF and the court while the case is open. We help relatives understand the process, speak up early, and show the court they are a safe and stable option for the child.
Why Annette's DCF background matters
Annette Sanchez worked for years as an attorney and later a senior prosecutor at DCF Children’s Legal Services. She prosecuted abuse, abandonment, and neglect cases and tried dependency trials. She knows how DCF builds these cases and what the process looks like from the inside.
Today she represents parents and relatives. That experience does not promise a particular result, and no lawyer can. It does mean you have someone who understands what DCF is looking for and can explain each step clearly, in English or Spanish.
How Annette Sanchez Law helps
- Represent parents from the shelter hearing through the rest of the case
- Help relatives ask to be considered as a safe placement for the child
- Review your case plan with you and keep track of court dates and tasks
- Use Annette's years at DCF Children's Legal Services to anticipate DCF's concerns
Frequently asked questions
What happens at a shelter hearing?
If DCF removes a child from the home, a shelter hearing must be held within 24 hours. It is usually the first time a judge looks at the case. The judge considers whether the child can safely return home for now or should stay in another placement while the case continues. Everything happens fast, so reach out to a lawyer as soon as you learn about a removal.
What is a case plan, and what if I can't finish it?
A case plan is a list of tasks a parent is usually given in a dependency case, such as parenting classes, evaluations, or treatment. Florida courts aim to reach permanency for the child within 12 months of removal, so time matters. If a task feels unrealistic or you are running into obstacles like work, transportation, or waitlists, tell your lawyer right away instead of waiting.
Do I need a lawyer for a DCF case, or can I use the one the court gives me?
Parents have the right to a lawyer in dependency cases, and the court appoints one if a parent cannot afford one. A parent may also hire a private lawyer. The choice is yours. If you are thinking about private representation, we are happy to talk honestly with you about your case and what working with our firm would look like.
Can a grandparent or relative have the child placed with them?
It is possible. In a DCF case, Florida prefers placement with a safe relative over a non-relative placement when possible. Relatives should let DCF and the court know early that they are willing and available. Relative placement in a dependency case is a separate process from a private relative custody case in family court, so the steps are different.
How long does a dependency case take?
Florida courts aim to reach permanency for the child within 12 months of removal. Permanency means a stable, long-term plan, such as reunification with a parent, placement with a relative, permanent guardianship, or adoption. Some cases resolve sooner and some take longer. The details depend on your case, the progress made on the case plan, and the court.
Will I lose my child forever?
Not necessarily. Reunification with the parent is one of the possible outcomes in a dependency case. Other outcomes include placement with a relative, permanent guardianship, or adoption. What happens depends on the facts of your case and the steps taken while it is open. That is why it helps to have a lawyer involved from the very beginning.
