What does a “Screened In” MA DCF Report Mean?

A screened in MA DCF report means the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (MA DCF) had a reasonable cause to believe the child abuse allegations are true. Once a report is screened in, DCF will decide whether it requires an emergency or a non-emergency response. DCF will then assign the case to a social worker or “51B investigator.” This person will then start an investigation into the child’s family. 

Regardless of the type of response, the 51B investigator will conduct interviews. They will interview the child, caretakers involved, and other collateral contacts (such as neighbors or friends) to collect more information about the family. The investigator will visit the location where the reported child was allegedly abused or neglected. The investigator will also visit the child’s home to see if the child is living in a safe home environment.

When Does MA DCF Immediately Screen-In a Report?

MA DCF must screen the report immediately for emergency responses, They must begin their investigation within two (2) hours of receiving the report. For non-emergency responses, MA DCF has one day (24 hours) to screen the report. The Department has three (3) days to begin their investigation. MA DCF will immediately screen-in the report under the following circumstances:

When there is a serious incident of domestic violence:

• MA DCF will screen-in a report where a child witnessed or was physically affected by domestic violence in or out of their home.

When there is a report that a parent has been using the following drugs:

• Crystal methamphetamines (also known as “crystal meth” or “meth”)
• Crack cocaine (also known as “crack”)

When newborn babies have drugs in their system. This includes when the newborn is:

• Suffering withdrawal from opiates (e.g. heroin, oxycodone, codeine).
  

  

• Suffering withdrawal from barbiturates (e.g. sleeping pills, anxiety medication).
• Suffering from fetal alcohol syndrome.
• Testing or has tested positive for drugs in a toxicity test.
• Found to have THC (marijuana) in their blood

What does MA DCF do While Screening allegations of child abuse or child neglect?”

During the MA DCF screening process, the Department is supposed to:

1. Take notes on the reporter’s reasons for reporting and concerns with the family.
2. Review the child and their family’s history with MA DCF and child protective services agencies in other states.
3. Request records from law enforcement containing information on the family.
   

   

4. Conduct a CORI (“Criminal Offender Record Information”) on the family.
5. Conduct a SORI (“Sexual Offender Registry Information”) on the family.
6. Contact collaterals (e.g. neighbors, relatives, friends, doctors, and teachers) who may be familiar with the family.
7. Browse through the family’s social media accounts and online presence.

What is a MA DCF “Reportable Condition?”

MA DCF defines various circumstances they have the duty to screen-in and investigate in their official glossary (which is 110 CMR 2.00). When a report matches the definitions in the Department’s glossary, the situation was a “reportable condition.” MA DCF will screen-in a report only if it describes a “reportable condition.” Reportable conditions include the following: A child may:

• have been abused or neglected by a caretaker
• be at risk of sexual exploitation
• be a victim of human trafficking

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

You find yourself in this situation, it’s advisable to seek legal representation from a qualified attorney, like those at the Law Office of Kevin Seaver, who can advocate for your rights and guide you through the complex process of a DCF investigation.

Remember that the ultimate goal of DCF is to ensure the safety and well-being of children while supporting families in crisis.

Please note that this article does not create an Attorney-Client relationship between our law firm and the reader and is provided for informational purposes only. Information in this article does not apply to all readers.

Readers should not rely on this information as legal advice and should seek specific counsel from the attorney based on personal circumstances. Thank you.

Kevin Patrick Seaver is a Massachusetts DCF Defense Lawyer who represents parents against false child abuse allegations.

Massachusetts DCF Defense Lawyer Kevin Seaver has been successfully fighting false child abuse allegations since 1991.