The investigator will determine whether there may have been a crime committed and if the child is in any immediate danger. … Depending on whether the investigator feels there’s a need to remove the child and/or investigate further, they will then begin a formal investigation.

What happens in a DCF investigation?

Once the investigation is complete DCF will have to decide whether to substantiate (to find that the child was abused or neglected) or to unsubstantiated (to find that the child was not abused or neglected). They will also determine who is the cause of the abuse or neglect.

How long does DCFS take to investigate in Illinois?

How long do DCFS investigations take? DCFS has 60 days to complete a formal investigation. Formal investigations are used to: Figure out if there is reliable evidence that a child was abused or neglected.