If I am in detention, will I lose my parental rights to my child?

That depends.

Child Protective Services (CPS) cannot take your child from you just because you are in detention. But if you do not have a safe place for them to live, they can place your child in a foster home.

If this happens, they may start the process to end your parental rights, especially if

  • you cannot find someone you trust to care for your child,
  • you will be in detention for longer than a few months, and
  • your child is under 3 years old.

If you will be in detention for more than a few days, find a safe home where your child can stay. Ask someone you trust, like a relative or friend. If possible, make these plans before you go to the detention center.

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