The Hospital Said CPS Has Been Called. Do I Have Any Other Options?
Hearing that Child Protective Services (CPS) has been called after giving birth can be frightening and overwhelming. You may be worried about losing custody of your baby, unsure what happens next, or wondering whether you have any say in what happens to your child. If you are a mother in Georgia facing this situation, you may still have options, and you do not have to navigate them alone.
While Covenant Care Adoptions is a state-licensed adoption agency, our main priority is YOU. We exist to empower moms to make the best decisions for their families and their own lives by learning about all the available options and resources to them, never feeling pressured into something out of fear or a temporary crisis.
What Does It Mean When the Hospital Calls CPS?
In Georgia, Child Protective Services operates through the Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS). Hospitals may report concerns about a newborn's safety, including concerns related to substance exposure, suspected neglect, or other circumstances that may affect a baby's well-being.
However, a report does not automatically mean you will lose your parental rights. DFCS investigates reports and works with families to address safety concerns. Depending on the circumstances, the agency may offer services to help your family remain together. If DFCS believes a child cannot safely remain at home, it may seek court involvement. Each situation is different.
What Are Your Options If CPS Has Been Called?
You may have more options than you realize. The right next step depends on your circumstances, your baby's safety, and whether DFCS has already taken legal action.
1. Ask about support services.
If you want to parent your baby but need help, ask the team at Covenant Care Adoptions or your DFCS caseworker what resources may be available. Depending on your situation, these may include substance use treatment, parenting support, housing assistance, or other services to address the concerns that led to the report.
2. Consider adoption if parenting is not the right option for you.
If you believe adoption may be best for your baby, you can ask about making an adoption plan and explore what the adoption process may look like after you’ve given birth. We are happy to talk to you about your options, without pressure, and help you navigate upcoming court orders or DFCS custody arrangements.
Adoption - open, closed, or semi-open - can offer your baby the opportunity to grow up in a stable, loving home while giving you a way to make a thoughtful plan for your child's future.
3. Explore family or relative placement.
If you are temporarily unable to care for your baby, ask whether a safe placement with a trusted relative may be possible. Georgia DFCS considers relatives and other appropriate family connections when evaluating placement options. Approval depends on the circumstances and applicable requirements.
What Should You Do Next?
Contact us today to have someone on your side and looking out for your best interests. Our caring staff will help you navigate your options and can connect with the DFCS representative to learn what has been reported, whether an actual case has been opened, and whether any court orders are in place. We can share more resources with you, too.
You do not have to make every decision in one moment. Getting clear information about your options can help you take the next step with confidence.
You Don't Have to Face This Alone
If you are in Georgia and considering adoption, Covenant Care Adoptions can help you explore your options and understand what an adoption plan may look like in your circumstances. Reaching out does not mean you have committed to adoption.
You deserve compassionate guidance, honest answers, and the opportunity to understand your options. Contact Covenant Care Adoptions to discuss your situation and learn what steps may be available to you and your baby.
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