CPS Defense Attorney in Michigan - Protecting Families

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Every family has a story. And when Child Protective Services enters that story, it can feel like your entire world is crumbling. Take Sarah's journey - a single mother working two jobs, balancing shifts at a local diner and a warehouse, trying to provide for her two children.

One missed school pickup, one moment of childcare confusion, and suddenly Sarah found herself facing a CPS investigation. A well-intentioned but misunderstood situation spiraled into a nightmare scenario where she feared losing the very children she was working so hard to support.

When Sarah first walked into my office, she wasn't just another case file. She was a mother terrified of losing everything she loved. My role wasn't just to navigate legal complexities, but to stand beside her when she felt most vulnerable.

CPS investigations are never just about legal technicalities. They're about:

• Protecting children's safety
• Supporting families through crisis
• Creating pathways to healing and reunification
• Ensuring fair and just proceedings
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In Sarah's case, I didn't just fight a legal battle. I:

• Documented her consistent work history
• Highlighted her children's health and school records
• Connected her with support services
• Developed a comprehensive case plan
• Demonstrated her commitment and capability as a parent

My strategy wasn't about proving Sarah was perfect, but showing she was a dedicated, hardworking mother committed to her children's well-being. I transformed a potentially devastating situation into an opportunity for support and growth. 

This is the moment that changes everything for families like Maria's. You have the right to refuse entry unless they have a court order or warrant. Politely ask to see their credentials and any court documents. Contact an attorney immediately before answering questions or allowing entry. Remember: anything you say can be used against you later. Your first response sets the tone for your entire case.

CPS can only remove children without a court order in emergency situations where there is immediate danger. They must then obtain court approval within 24-48 hours. This is when families need an advocate most - at those critical emergency hearings that determine whether children go home or remain in care. Having an attorney present can make the difference between temporary separation and prolonged removal.

Every family asks this question, and I understand why. CPS cases typically last anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on the complexity and your compliance with court orders. Federal law requires permanency decisions within 12 months, but cases can extend longer in certain circumstances. What matters most is having someone guide you through each step, helping you understand what's expected and advocating for the fastest path to reunification.

You have fundamental rights that must be protected: the right to legal representation, to be present at hearings, to cross-examine witnesses, to present evidence, and to appeal adverse decisions. You also have the right to reasonable services to help reunify your family. These aren't just legal technicalities - they're your pathway back to your children.

I understand that when you're already facing a crisis, legal costs add another layer of stress. We offer three consultation options:

• Standard Consultation: $350 (75 minutes)
• Expedited Consultation: $450 (75 minutes, within 48 hours)
• Emergency Consultation: $550 (75 minutes, same day/evening/weekend)

Retainer fees typically range from $3,000-$6,000 depending on case complexity. Payment plans are available because I believe every family deserves quality representation, regardless of their financial situation. 

We believe an informed family is an empowered family. That's why we don't just represent you - we educate, support, and guide you through every step of the process.

Attorney Tara Nichol represents families in CPS cases throughout Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Jackson, and Genesee Counties. Don't wait - contact us immediately if CPS has contacted your family. Call 517-299-5659 or email contact@attorneytaranichol.com 

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