Dependency Proceedings...
If you're involved in a voluntary arrangement or have been notified that a legal preceding will be commenced against you resulting in the removal of your children for an allegation of abuse, neglect, or abandonment, the Law Offices of John O. McGowan, P.A. are here to assist you.
Typically The Department of Children and Families will become involved in a case in which there are allegations of a danger to a child. When this happens, an Emergency Shelter Hearing takes place. At this point, if you haven't retained legal counsel before, you need to have a team of experienced attorneys who understand the Dependency Process represent you and your rights as a parent.
Our attorneys have handled hundreds of Dependency cases and understand the emotional distress that these proceeding can cause for the entire family as well as the child.
Our Firm takes the time to analyze your entire case from every angle to give you the information that you need to make the best possible decision for you and your family. We are ready and willing to walk you through the legal proceedings, to negotiate with the Department, Mediate a resolution, or take your case to an Adjudicatory Hearing if need be.
We also handle Termination of Rights cases. These proceedings begin when the Department of Children and Families file a Petition for Termination of Parental Rights. Our Firm will take on the Department and do everything possible to make sure that you keep your child.
Dependency Matters are quite serious and can devastate a family if they are not properly handled. Contact us immediately to get our legal team on your side so we can start working for you. We handle cases in Southwest Florida, Tampa and many other locations in Florida.
Click HERE to find answers to some Fequently Asked Questions about Dependency Proceedings.