Dependency, Neglect & Abuse

Fighting to Keep Families Together

When Kentucky parents face allegations of dependency, neglect, or abuse (DNA), their fundamental right to parent their children hangs in the balance. At Bowman Legal, Louisville’s dedicated family law firm, attorney Jason A. Bowman provides strategic, aggressive representation for parents and caregivers navigating these challenging legal proceedings.

With extensive experience opposing the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) and the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office, Jason A. Bowman helps families navigate the complex DNA process while working toward the ultimate goal of family reunification.

“When CPS wrongfully accused me of neglect, I was terrified of losing my children. Jason A. Bowman fought tirelessly against false allegations and helped me navigate the system to keep my family together.”

— Michael R., Louisville

If you’re facing dependency, neglect, or abuse allegations in Kentucky, call (502) 861-7414 immediately for a confidential consultation.

Understanding Kentucky DNA Cases

In Kentucky, dependency, neglect, and abuse cases are serious legal proceedings that can ultimately lead to temporary or permanent removal of children from their homes. Under KRS Chapter 620, these terms have specific legal definitions:

• Dependency — when a child is dependent due to being under improper care, custody, or control of parents/guardians, or when the child is homeless or not provided with proper care, despite no direct parental fault (KRS 600.020(20))
• Neglect — when a parent, guardian, or caretaker fails or refuses to provide adequate care, supervision, food, clothing, shelter, education, or medical care necessary for the child’s wellbeing (KRS 600.020(1)(a))
• Abuse — when a person inflicts or allows physical or emotional injury, creates risk of injury, engages in sexual abuse, exploits a child, or creates risk of sexual abuse or exploitation (KRS 600.020(1)(a))

Louisville attorney Jason A. Bowman helps clients understand these legal definitions and builds strong defenses against allegations that often rely on subjective interpretations of parenting decisions.

Key Players in Kentucky DNA Cases

• Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) — Kentucky’s child protective services agency that investigates allegations and makes recommendations to the court
• Jefferson County Attorney’s Office — represents the state’s interests in DNA proceedings and prosecutes cases against parents
• Guardian ad Litem (GAL) — court-appointed attorney who represents the children’s best interests
• Parent’s Attorney — defends the constitutional and legal rights of parents facing allegations
• Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) — volunteer who may be appointed to advocate for the child

As a skilled Kentucky DNA defense lawyer, Jason A. Bowman effectively navigates these complex relationships, ensuring your voice is heard amidst competing interests.

The Kentucky DNA Process

CPS Investigation and Prevention Planning

The DNA process typically begins with an investigation by CHFS. During this phase, parents have important rights that Jason A. Bowman ensures are protected, including the right to refuse home entry without a warrant, the right to decline interviews without counsel, and the right to know the specific allegations being investigated. Engagement before a petition is filed can sometimes resolve concerns informally.

Adjudication and Disposition

Adjudication determines whether the allegations are proven by a preponderance of the evidence. Disposition follows and sets the placement, services, and case plan. The decisions made at these two hearings shape everything that follows — including any subsequent termination case — which is why getting counsel in early matters.

Reunification and Termination

Most DNA cases aim for reunification through case-plan compliance. When the Cabinet seeks termination of parental rights, Jason A. Bowman defends with the same rigor he brings to every appellate argument.