Handbook Revision, July 1, 2019

This revision of the Child Protective Services Handbook was published on July 1, 2019.

On September 1, 2017, the investigations branch of CPS became a separate division named Child Protective Investigations (CPI). Until CPI develops its own policy handbook, investigation policies and procedures will remain in the CPS handbook.

See:

Child Protective Services Revision

Child Protective Investigations Revision

CPS wants to make sure that the 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 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 about specific cases, please contact the caseworker or supervisor, or the Office of Consumer Relations at 1-800-720-7777.

Child Protective Services Revision

Life Skills Assessment and Child’s Plan of Service (PATS 11418)

Personal Documents Provided to Youth (PATS 11657)

Life Skills Assessment and Child’s Plan of Service (PATS 11418)

This revision updates the following sections to specify that the caseworker:

  •  Will conduct a Life Skills Assessment with youth in permanent managing conservatorship starting at age 14.

  •  Must document the life skills learned the previous year in the Child’s Plan of Service.

See:

6241.1 Basic Description of the Child’s Service Plan

10221 Life Skills Assessment

Personal Documents Provided to Youth (PATS 11657)

These changes will provide clarification on the timeframes for youth to have personal documents before they turn 16.

See:

6452 Personal Documents Provided to Youth

6452.1 Personal Documents Provided to Youth at Before Age 16

6452.2 Personal Documents Provided to Youth by Before Age 18

6452.3 Documentation Requirements for Personal Documents

Child Protective Investigations Revision

CPS Actions When Danger to a Child is Present (PATS 11202)

This update revises the language that explains what actions DFPS takes if a child is in danger. It expands on actions the caseworker takes if a family refuses to participate in a safety plan.

See:

3200 DFPS CPS Actions When Danger to a Child is Present