Dependency, Neglect & Abuse Cases
Dependency, Neglect & Abuse Cases
Juvenile Court
The Scott County Attorney’s Office prosecutes Dependency, Neglect and Abuse (“DNA”) cases in Family Court. The terms “abused or neglected child” and “dependent child” are defined in KRS 600.020. The goal of the Scott County Attorney’s Office in these cases is the protection of children. These proceedings are not criminal in nature and the initial goal of all DNA cases is, through the appropriate treatment and therapies, to reunify the child with the family if possible. Child abuse is a serious crime that can be prosecuted under the laws of the Commonwealth. However, DNA proceedings are independent of any criminal proceedings.
A DNA action is commenced with the filing of a Dependency/Neglect or Abuse Petition with the Scott Family Court by the Department for Community Based Services (“Cabinet”). The Cabinet investigates allegations of dependency, abuse, or neglect and, if appropriate, files a petition against the parties responsible in Scott Family Court. The Cabinet also remains involved as the case is ongoing. If a case is filed, attorneys will be appointed to represent the parents and a Guardian ad Litem will be appointed to represent the best interest of the children. Unless the parties stipulate to the allegations, an adjudication hearing will be held to determine the truth or falsity of the allegations in the petition. Ultimately, the goal in DNA cases is to reunify the family, but if this is not possible, other outcomes include but are not limited to permanent relative custody and adoption.
It is important to know that under Kentucky law, concerned citizens have a legal obligation to make a report to DCBS when there is reason to believe that a child is being abused, neglected, dependent, or may be the victim of human trafficking or female genital mutilation. For information on how to report Dependency, Neglect or Abuse, please see the following links:
