Frequently Asked Questions
Have a child or family law-related question? Levine Litigation LLC has the answer.
Check out these FAQs and give us a call today for more information!
What is child protection law in Connecticut?
Child protection law in Connecticut involves legal action taken to ensure the safety and welfare of children who may be at risk of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is the primary agency handling these matters in CT. If you need assistance navigating child protection cases or require the guidance of the best family lawyer, Levine Litigation LLC is here to help. Contact us today for experienced legal support dedicated to protecting your family’s rights and well-being.
What happens if DCF gets involved with my family?
If DCF gets involved with your family, they may conduct an investigation, offer services, or take legal action depending on the nature of the report. Having the best family lawyer by your side can help you understand your rights and provide strong representation throughout the process.
Do I need a lawyer if DCF contacts me?
Yes. It’s highly recommended to consult with the best family lawyer or a child protection attorney as soon as possible. They can help protect your parental rights, guide you through interviews, and assist you in court if necessary.
Can DCF remove my children without a court order?
In emergency situations where a child is in immediate danger, DCF may remove a child without a court order. However, they must seek court approval shortly afterward. Having the best family lawyer for legal representation at this critical stage is essential to protect your rights and your children’s welfare.
What are my rights as a parent during a DCF investigation?
You have the right to remain silent, to refuse entry into your home without a warrant, and to have the best family lawyer present during any interviews or court proceedings to protect your rights throughout a DCF investigation.
Do I need to be separated before filing for divorce in CT?
No legal separation period is required before filing for divorce in CT, but you must meet residency requirements. Consulting a divorce lawyer can help you understand the process and ensure your case is handled properly.
What are the residency requirements for divorce in CT?
According to Levine Litigation LLC, at least one spouse must have lived in Connecticut for 12 months before filing, or have lived here at the time of marriage and returned intending to stay. A divorce lawyer can help clarify these residency requirements and guide you through the filing process.
What's the difference between legal separation and divorce?
Legal separation allows couples to live apart and address key issues such as property, custody, and support without ending the marriage. Divorce legally dissolves the marriage. According to Clio, approximately 45% of marriages end in divorce, with first marriages lasting about eight years on average before couples decide to legally separate or divorce. Understanding these options is important because they have different legal and personal implications. Consulting a divorce lawyer can help you understand which option best fits your situation and guide you through the legal process.
How is child custody decided?
The court focuses on the best interest of the child, considering factors like parenting ability, the child’s needs, and the existing relationship with each parent. A divorce lawyer can help you present your case effectively and advocate for your parental rights during custody decisions.
How is child support calculated in Connecticut?
Child support in Connecticut is calculated using a formula based on both parents' income, the number of children, and the custody arrangement. A divorce lawyer can help ensure the calculation is accurate and fair for your situation. For expert guidance, contact Levine Litigation LLC to discuss your case with experienced legal professionals.
What's a post-judgment modification in Connecticut family law?
A post-judgment modification changes a prior court order related to custody, support, or visitation when circumstances have significantly changed. Common triggers include job changes, relocations, school transitions, or shifts in income. At Levine Litigation, we help Brookfield families present strong evidence and documentation when requesting or contesting these adjustments.When should I request a child support modification?
You should request a modification when there's a substantial change in income, employment, custody arrangement, or the child's needs. Connecticut law requires proof of a significant change in circumstances since the original order. At Levine Litigation, we help parents organize financial evidence and navigate the modification process efficiently.How does Connecticut calculate child support payments?
Connecticut uses income-based guidelines that factor in both parents' gross incomes, number of children, and custody arrangements. The calculation also considers healthcare, childcare costs, and any extraordinary expenses. At Levine Litigation, we provide detailed support calculations tailored to dual-income families and shared-custody dynamics common in Brookfield.What triggers a DCF investigation in Connecticut?
DCF investigations typically begin when mandatory reporters—such as teachers, doctors, or counselors—file concerns about abuse, neglect, or unsafe conditions. In Brookfield, school reports are common triggers. Parents have rights during home visits and interviews, and quick legal representation can prevent unnecessary escalation or misunderstandings.Can I fight a neglect petition filed by DCF?
Yes, parents have the right to defend against neglect petitions by presenting evidence, witnesses, and compliance with service plans. Success often depends on documenting safe living conditions, parenting efforts, and cooperation with counseling or family programs. At Levine Litigation, we help Brookfield families build strong defenses using local community resources.What's the difference between mediation and going to court for divorce?
Mediation uses a neutral facilitator to help both parties reach voluntary agreements outside court, reducing time, cost, and conflict. Court litigation involves a judge making binding decisions after formal hearings. At Levine Litigation, our certified mediators offer child-centered, collaborative solutions ideal for Brookfield's commuter families seeking efficient resolutions.How long does a divorce take in Connecticut?
Connecticut requires a 90-day waiting period after filing, but contested cases involving custody or asset division can take six months to over a year. Mediation and cooperative negotiation often shorten timelines significantly. At Levine Litigation, we use structured planning and local court familiarity to help Brookfield clients move through the process efficiently.What happens during a termination of parental rights case?
TPR cases are high-stakes proceedings where the state seeks to permanently sever a parent's legal relationship with their child, often due to long-term neglect or failure to reunify. Parents have due-process rights and must present strong evidence of compliance, stability, and fitness. At Levine Litigation, we provide urgent, strategic defense for families facing TPR in Brookfield and surrounding areas.What should I do if DCF shows up at my door?
Stay calm, be respectful, and know your rights—you can decline entry without a warrant or court order in most cases. Provide only factual answers and avoid volunteering extra information. Contact an attorney immediately, as early legal guidance can prevent misunderstandings and protect your family's rights during the investigation.Can custody arrangements change if a parent relocates?
Yes, relocation often requires a post-judgment modification, especially if it affects the child's school, routine, or the other parent's access. Connecticut courts prioritize the child's best interests and may adjust custody or visitation schedules. At Levine Litigation, we help Brookfield families navigate relocation requests with clear documentation and evidence.What's a Guardian ad Litem in Connecticut family court?
A Guardian ad Litem is a court-appointed advocate who investigates and represents a child's best interests in custody, abuse, or neglect cases. They interview parents, visit homes, and make recommendations to the judge. At Levine Litigation, our attorney's GAL certification provides unique insight into how courts evaluate children's needs and family dynamics.How do commuter lifestyles in Brookfield affect child support?
Commuter families often have fluctuating incomes, variable schedules, and dual-career dynamics that complicate support calculations and custody arrangements. Connecticut courts consider actual parenting time and financial capacity when setting or modifying orders. At Levine Litigation, we help families present accurate financial pictures that reflect real-world work and caregiving responsibilities.
