Police Contacted Me About an Interaction With a Child

A police contact is not the same as a DCFS investigation

In Illinois, allegations involving a child often trigger two parallel tracks: a DCFS investigation that can result in an indicated finding, and a criminal investigation that can result in charges. They have different rules, different burdens of proof, and different consequences.

Information moves between the two. A statement you give to a caseworker can end up in a police report, and a statement to police can be used in the DCFS case.

Your rights before you say anything

You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You can politely decline an interview and say you want to speak with a lawyer first. That request cannot be used against you as evidence of guilt.

Officers may say the conversation is informal or that talking will clear things up quickly. Even a well-intentioned explanation can be recorded inaccurately or taken out of context.

What to do right now

Write down what happened while it is fresh: dates, times, who was present, what was said. Preserve texts, photos, medical records, and any other documentation.

Do not contact the reporting party or the child's other household about the allegation. Speak with an attorney experienced in both Illinois criminal defense and DCFS matters before your next conversation with investigators.

Common questions

Do I have to talk to the police about a child abuse allegation?

No. You have the right to remain silent and to have an attorney present before answering questions.

Will DCFS know what I told the police?

Often yes. Illinois DCFS and law enforcement frequently share information during overlapping investigations.

Can I be charged criminally and have a DCFS finding?

Yes. The two proceedings are separate, and an outcome in one does not control the other.