Legal Question in Family Law in New York

child neglect

My husband and I were asked to take in my son's friend on 6/7/07 via Social Services for a ''respite weekend'' as his guardian and guardians wife were being investigated for neglecting him. It is now October and the child is still with us. The report against the guardian and wife were founded. We receive a total of $398.00 monthly from Social Services and are really starting to struggle as we have 3 children of our own. We get no support from anyone else and Social services said there is nothing more they can do. The child's mother receives a large sum of money twice a year and has never contributed to his well being. We are not trying to get rich but this child had nothing ie: clothes, underwear,socks ect. when he came to us. We spent our own money to get him situated. I am confused how they(SS) can just drop this boy off and close the case. Do we have any recourse? Are we eligible for more support? Do we need a lawyer? I have already taken another job to off set his being at our home. I would appreciate any input.


Asked on 10/07/07, 10:15 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Anthony Colleluori The Law Offices of Anthony J. Colleluori & Associates PLLC

Re: child neglect

I am so sorry. Yes you need a lawyer. You may contact me for referrals in your area. While you await the wheels of justice contact the state CPS and see what they can do. Further contact local churches and see if they can help. Contact Catholic Charities and the Bar Association to see if they have social workers who will work on your behalf.

Contact your state Senator. Go to his office with all your papers. Nothing ticks off a state Senator as much as a government agency messing around with a kid. (State Senators are not the same as US Senators do not call Clinton or Schumer) Same thing. Call your State Assemblyman. They have staff that will help you.

While your at it, go to the local branch of the Knights of Columbus or the Son's of Italy, or the Lion's club. Ask if they can run a small fundraiser to help you guys make ends meet.

Good luck.

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Answered on 10/12/07, 1:34 am


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