When the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) becomes involved in your life, everything can change in an instant. Whether you’re a parent fighting to keep custody, a relative seeking placement, or a foster parent caught in the legal maze, DCF dependency cases are complex, emotional, and time-sensitive.
At McNary Law, we understand the weight of these proceedings and are here to provide experienced, compassionate legal guidance in Bradenton, Sarasota, and throughout Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Our attorneys know how to navigate the system—and how to fight for your family.
Understanding DCF and Dependency Cases in Florida
What Is a Dependency Case?
A dependency case typically begins when someone reports suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect to the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). If DCF believes a child is in danger, they may remove the child from the home and initiate court proceedings to determine the best course of action.
Dependency court decides whether:
A child has been abused, abandoned, or neglected
A parent is fit to care for their child
The state should take temporary or permanent custody
This process is not criminal, but it has life-altering implications. That’s why you need an attorney who understands both the legal and emotional terrain of dependency law.
The DCF Investigation Process
Initial Contact and Shelter Hearing
DCF may remove a child and hold a shelter hearing within 24 hours. At this hearing, the judge decides whether the child should remain in out-of-home care temporarily. It is critical to have legal representation at this early stage to present your side and advocate for reunification or relative placement.
Case Plan Development
If the court finds that the child is dependent, parents are often given a case plan—a list of tasks to complete to regain custody, such as parenting classes, substance abuse treatment, or counseling. An attorney can negotiate the terms of the case plan, challenge unreasonable requirements, and hold DCF accountable for delays.
Your Rights as a Parent in a DCF Case
Right to an attorney: You have the right to be represented by an attorney throughout the case.
Right to visitation: Unless it poses harm, you are typically entitled to visit your child while the case is ongoing.
Right to reunification efforts: DCF is generally required to help you work toward reunifying with your child unless aggravating circumstances exist.
Our attorneys fight to ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
Who Can Participate in Dependency Cases?
Parents (biological or legal)
Relatives seeking custody or visitation
Foster parents or pre-adoptive caregivers
Guardians ad litem
Children, often represented by their own attorney or guardian
Each party may have different goals—but our priority is making sure your voice is heard.
Reunification, Termination, and Adoption
Reunification
The most common goal in a dependency case is reunification with a parent. However, it must be shown that the home is safe and that the parent has complied with their case plan.
Termination of Parental Rights (TPR)
In some cases, DCF may pursue termination of parental rights, which is the most severe outcome and a necessary step before a child can be adopted. This process is permanent and final.
We provide aggressive defense in TPR cases to help you preserve your parental rights and keep your family intact.
Adoption
If reunification is not possible, a relative or foster parent may pursue adoption. We represent both prospective adoptive families and biological relatives seeking to provide permanent care for children involved in the dependency system.
How McNary Law Can Help
At McNary Law, we bring deep knowledge of Florida dependency law and a personal commitment to every case. We understand that no two families are alike, and we tailor our approach to your unique situation.
We assist clients with:
Representation at shelter, arraignment, and judicial review hearings
Negotiating or modifying case plans
Challenging DCF actions and recommendations
Preparing for reunification or adoption
Filing motions for relative or non-relative placement
Appeals and post-judgment matters
Why Choose a Local Bradenton and Sarasota Attorney?
Our team lives and works in this community. We have strong relationships with the local judges, DCF personnel, and community service providers in both Manatee and Sarasota counties. This local insight allows us to provide practical, strategic guidance that’s rooted in results.
Integrating Support Across Practice Areas
Dependency cases often intersect with other legal concerns. We regularly assist clients in related matters, such as:
Family Law: If you’re also involved in a divorce or child custody battle, we can align your dependency case with your broader parenting goals.
Injunctions and Domestic Violence: Allegations of abuse may trigger both dependency investigations and restraining orders. We handle both.
Criminal Defense: If you’re facing criminal charges related to child abuse or neglect, our defense team ensures coordinated representation.
When your family’s future is at stake, you need a law firm that sees the full picture.
Take the First Step to Protect Your Family
Time is critical in DCF and dependency cases. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of preserving your rights and protecting your child. At McNary Law, we are here to walk with you through this difficult journey—with strength, compassion, and clarity.
Click here to send us a message or call us today at 941-345-1662 to schedule a consultation.
