Handbook Revision, September 2, 2025
This revision of the Child Protective Services Handbook was published on September 2, 2025.
On September 1, 2017, the investigations branch of CPS became a separate division named Child Protective Investigations (CPI). Until CPI develops its own policy handbook, investigation policies and procedures will remain in the CPS Handbook.
See:
Child Protective Services Revisions
Child Protective Investigations Revisions
Child Protective Services Revisions
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Child Protective Investigations Revisions
Definition of Neglect (PATS 00105)
This handbook revision updates the list of of actions that are not considered to be neglect. The changes were made in accordance with House Bills 1151 and 1106, 89th Texas Legislature, Regular Session.
See:
2113.2 Definitions of Neglect
Release of School Investigation Report (PATS 00106)
This policy is being updated to inform staff that they are now required to notify the State Board for Educator Certification, the president of the local school board or local governing body for the school, the superintendent of the school district, and the school principal in writing at the closure of a school investigation. This revision was made in accordance with Senate Bill 571, 89th Texas Legislature, Regular Session.
See:
2327 Release of the School Investigation Report
Assessment of Caregivers (PATS 00107)
This policy is being updated to direct staff that a proof of residency letter must be given for all school-aged children in a parental child safety placement (PCSP). This change was made in accordance with Senate Bill 226, 89th Texas Legislature, Regular Session.
See:
3212.1 Assessment of Caregivers
Birth Certificates (PATS 00108)
Policy is being updated to inform staff that they are required to inform the court before the adversary hearing that the request for each child’s birth certificate is being made and to provide it to the attorney representing DFPS to submit to the court. These revisions were made in accordance with Senate Bill 1141 and House Bill 1973, 89th Texas Legislature, Regular Session.
See:
5411.3 Basic Process for Obtaining a Court Order before Conducting an Emergency Removal
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5412.2 Basic Process for Conducting an Emergency Removal before Obtaining a Court Order (Exigent)
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5420 Beginning a Child Protection Lawsuit
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5431.11 Required Information Provided to the Court before the Adversary Hearing
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5431.3 Standard of Proof in an Adversary Hearing