Handbook Revision, December 1, 2017

This revision of the Child Protective Services Handbook was published on December 1, 2017.

CPS wants to ensure that the general public understands what critical actions caseworkers are required to perform and why. To further this understanding, CPS has set up a policy email box for the general public: CPSPolicyQuestions@dfps.texas.gov. Please feel free to contact us, via this email address, with any general questions related to policy.

For questions or concerns regarding specific cases, please contact the caseworker or supervisor, or the Office of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-720-7777.

Visual Documentation of a Child’s Interview and Injuries (PATS 10442)

The items below are revised to state that if a parent is present, a caseworker must inform the parent of the intent to take photographs before photographing the child. See:

1463.1 Unit Staff Responsibilities

1463.2 Items Retained in the Paper Case File

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2244.4 Audio and Visual Documentation of a Child’s Interview and Injuries to the Child