As an alternative to a child being taken into protective custody and a shelter care hearing being held, a family can also be referred for court involved Intact Family Services (IFS).
DCFS and/or the POS agencies designated to manage intact cases can assist families in correcting the conditions that brought the family to the attention of DCFS without the need for court intervention.
The court may become involved when the services provided do not mitigate the risk, or the risk of child abuse/neglect has increased. The State's Attorney's Office may file a Petition for Adjudication in response to a request from DCFS or the POS agency.
Susan Barker Deputy General Counsel, Department of Children and Family Services
How does The Department Prevent Removal?
DCFS has funding to assist families as well as other resources to prevent removal.
DCFS must always balance whether removal is in a child's best interest against the risk of remaining in the home.