Visitation

questions & answers

Question: I have two grandkids whom iraised cps is saying that i can't raise my grandkids cause of my criminal background which is over 10 yr ex

Answer: CPS staff are required to conduct criminal background checks. The nature of the offense and the timing of when it occurred is something that CPS workers take into consideration. The guidelines are not clear about the weight that should be given to criminal offenses committed by prospective relative caregivers. Each CPS worker may make different determinations regarding the same criminal offense. If a person has been denied CPS clearance he/she can request to meet with CPS staff to clarify and/or present additional evidence regarding his/her criminal history. The department of Public Safety does have clear guidelines regarding criminal backgrounds when evaluating households seeking foster care licensure. If a person has been convicted of or is awaiting trial for any of the 101 offenses listed in Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) §41-1758.03(B) and (C), they will not receive clearance. (http://azauditor.gov/Reports/State_Agencies/Agencies/Economic_Security,_Department_of/Performance/CPS-0902/CPS-0902.pdf)