If CPS Is at Your Door

1. Breathe first. Panic writes bad records. You can take ten seconds before opening anything.
2. You can step outside and close the door behind you to talk. Being calm and polite is protection, not weakness.
3. You can ask: "Do you have a court order?" — and ask to see it. Without one (or an emergency with law enforcement), parents can generally decline entry.
4. You can say: "I choose not to answer questions until I've talked with a lawyer." That sentence is legal, complete, and enough.
5. You don't have to sign anything on the spot. "I want to review this with a lawyer first" is an option for any paper.
6. You can ask what the concern is. You're generally entitled to know why they've come.
7. Write everything down the moment they leave: names, agency, badge or ID, time, what was said, what was asked. Same day. Every time.
8. Then find your feet: the free guide "Start Here: The First 24 Hours" walks you through what comes next, step by calm step.

General information for Colorado parents, not legal advice about your situation; how these options play out can vary, and a licensed attorney can advise you. Free to copy and share unchanged.