Your Michigan CPS Attorneys During Children’s Protective Services Investigations
Last updated on October 8, 2026
Cannon Law PLC represents parents throughout the state of Michigan against false allegations that prompt a Children’s Protective Services (CPS) investigation. Because the identity of a person reporting an allegation of abuse to CPS is confidential, innocent people may become the subject of false allegations.
When you are accused of mistreating your child(ren), seek the representation of an experienced, aggressive attorney with a proven track record. Do not make the mistake of trying to navigate the investigation on your own. At our firm, our attorneys have defended and exonerated parents facing the system in Oakland County and across Michigan.
Offering Aggressive CPS Defense Backed By Experience
We provide representation in the following types of cases:
- Sexual abuse allegations
- Abusive head trauma
- Domestic violence (physical abuse or neglect allegations)
- Medical kidnapping
- Munchausen syndrome
- Failure to protect
- Rib fractures and serious physical injury
- Termination of parental rights
We also handle contentious divorce and child custody issues, as well as other trials and juvenile proceedings.
If your children have already been removed and you’re awaiting a trial, our family law attorneys will strive to get your children returned home. Depending on the circumstances, the matter may require a trial or a negotiation with the Department of Health and Human Services.
The Process Of Michigan CPS And Police Investigations
It’s not unusual for an individual facing a child protective services investigation to also face a police investigation. That’s because when CPS receives an allegation of sexual or physical abuse, they’ll likely notify the police department nearest the child. They will then decide whether or not they will also become involved.
If both CPS and the police decide to investigate, you should expect the following process:
- The police may interview you alongside CPS workers
- CPS investigates the home environment while the police determine if a crime occurred
- Forensic interviews of children may be conducted without parents present
- The police will seek to interview parents about the allegations
- Information provided to CPS will be shared with the police
The purpose of the police’s investigation is to determine whether you should face criminal prosecution. While you may be facing false allegations, the police are not there to advocate for you. Our attorneys have several tools to help you navigate a police investigation, including communicating with investigators on your behalf.
The Intersection Of CPS, Divorce And Child Custody
Typically, people involved in high-conflict child custody disputes also trigger a CPS investigation. In fact, the problems you are experiencing with your spouse or ex-spouse may be a cause of the CPS investigation. Parents sometimes try to use the CPS system to take custody from another parent.
In these situations, it’s very important that you have a family law attorney who understands the CPS/child welfare system and can take action on your family law case in a way that protects your parenting time and the relationship you share with your children. We can handle your family law needs while simultaneously addressing your CPS investigation.
How A Birmingham CPS Lawyer Can Assist In Your Defense
CPS workers are trained investigators. Their job is not to advocate for you against false allegations. Their job is to make a finding as to whether or not a preponderance of evidence exists establishing abuse or neglect.
Many tactics used by CPS investigators resemble those used by the police. For this reason, you could innocently implicate yourself by speaking with a CPS investigator the same way you would with a police officer. Having an Oakland County CPS defense attorney at the onset of an investigation can prevent the state from removing your children. In cases that involve domestic abuse from your spouse, romantic partner or a relative, we can also help you with a personal protective order (PPO).
What Are The Five Criteria For CPS?
- Category V: No evidence of abuse or neglect
- Category IV: No substantiated abuse, but voluntary services recommended
- Category III: Low to moderate risk requiring community support
- Category II: High risk requiring formal protective services)
- Category I: Severe abuse or immediate safety threats requiring court intervention
Our CPS lawyers can help you with all five disposition levels. We also handle all issues related to child custody orders.
What Happens When CPS Is Called In Michigan?
What Can CPS Do In Michigan? What Can CPS Not Do?
- Interview your children
- Request voluntary drug screenings
- Inspect your home
- Offer family support services
- Force entry into your home
- Make you speak to them
- Remove children without a court order
Facing Abuse Allegations? Contact Our Birmingham CPS Defense Attorneys Immediately.
Don’t make the mistake of hiring a lawyer without experience in CPS law. General knowledge of Michigan family law doesn’t mean they understand the ins and outs of CPS and the foster care system. Fortunately, we do. To schedule a confidential consultation at our Birmingham office, call 248-929-9750 or complete our contact form to get started.

