What are the Four (4) Outcomes of a MA DCF Investigation?

The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (MA DCF) makes a decision to close the case or keep the case open after a 51B investigation (also known as a MA DCF investigation). There are four (4) possible outcomes of a MA DCF investigation.

The Four MA DCF investigation outcomes are:

  1. Unsupported
  2. Substantiated concern
  3. Supported with an assessment
  4. Supported without an assessment
MA DCF Investigation Outcomes
MA DCF Investigation Outcomes

When does MA DCF Close a Case After a MA DCF Investigation?

 The Department closes the case only when they believe there is enough evidence to “unsupport” the allegations. An “unsupported” decision means MA DCF decided that the allegations of child abuse or neglect were false.

The Department may also close the case when they decide that the allegations should be “supported without an assessment”. A “supported” decision means MA DCF concluded the allegations of child abuse or neglect were true. When MA DCF makes a supported decision “without an assessment,” the Department does not believe they can help the family any further.

MA DCF makes a supported decision without an assessment when the caretaker does not live with the child. For example, if the caretaker is a teacher or babysitter, DCF will not do an assessment. When the child was not abused by a family member who lives with them, MA DCF would not have to continue being involved with the family after the investigation. They would, therefore, close the case.

When does MA DCF Keep a Case Open After a MA DCF Investigation?

The Department would keep a case open after a MA DCF investigation when they think they can work with the reported family to help improve their situation. DCF will keep a case open when they “supported the allegations with an assessment,” or decide that the case should be “substantiated concern.”

When the allegations are “supported,” it means MA DCF believed the allegations were true. When MA DCF supports the allegations with an assessment, however, it means that DCF thinks they can work with the family. MA DCF will connecting the family to services or programs, and monitor their progress.

When the allegations are “substantiated concern,” MA DCF was not sure whether or not the child abuse or neglect allegations are true. In these cases, MA DCF also believes the family can benefit from the Department’s help through programs or services.

The services or programs MA DCF recommends should be related to the issues the family is facing. For example, allegations could be made because of a caretaker’s anger management problems. MA DCF should connect the caretaker to therapy or anger management counseling.

blank Kevin Seaver is a trusted MA DCF Attorney Specializing in DCF Law since 1991. blank