Straight answers before you call.

What you must allow depends on the circumstances and on the rules where you live, and it changes if there is a court order. Stay calm and polite, ask who they are and why they are there, and ask for their name and contact details in writing. If you are unsure about agreeing to something, you can say you would like to speak with a lawyer first, and then call us.

In an emergency, an agency or the police can move a child before a judge has looked at the case. A judge generally reviews the move quickly afterward. The time is short, which is why we ask you to call the same day if you can.

Read every line, ask for a copy and ask what happens if you miss a step. Plans are easier to live with when they are realistic, and you can often propose changes. We read plans with parents before they sign and explain what a signature gives up.

In many places a parent in a child welfare court case may ask the court for a lawyer at no cost. If you qualify, you can still choose to hire us. If you are not sure, tell us what court papers you have received and we will explain how to ask.

Agencies and courts keep records for different lengths of time, and some are shared with employers, schools or licensing offices. We explain what is likely to be kept in your situation and whether there is a way to challenge or limit it.

We explain the fee in writing before you decide to hire us. We don't quote a price over the phone, because each case needs different work, but a first conversation lets us say what yours involves.

No. If you have been served with a protective order or charged with a crime, we can tell you how it touches your child welfare case and refer you to a lawyer who handles that work. If you are in danger now, call 911. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233.

Yes. A partner, parent or friend is welcome at meetings, and we will meet at a time that works around your job and your child's schedule.