Disaster Manual: Section 13 – Family Law Issues

Displacement during and after a natural disaster can cause unique family law issues. In addition to issues regarding custody, visitation, and child support, incidents of domestic and sexual violence increase after natural disasters, according to a 2015 global study by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.¹ Researchers attribute this increase to a combination of loss of family members and homes, scarcity of basic resources, displacement, increased stress, and marital conflict. In addition, the lack of security in temporary disaster relief shelters increases risk of sexual violence towards women and young girls.

This chapter is designed to provide guidance for attorneys helping clients resolve family law issues related to a natural disaster.

• What do I do if I lost the physical copy of my protective order in a disaster and it is not in the police database?
• I had to relocate to a different state following a disaster. Is my protective order still enforceable?
• How can I make sure my abuser doesn’t find me in a disaster-relief shelter?
• I have been sexually assaulted in a disaster-relief shelter. What can I do?
• I am the child's relative or other adult caregiver, but I do not have a court order for custody.
• I had to evacuate my home. Where do I go to modify my child’s custody or support order?
• What if my child’s other parent refuses to pay child support after the disaster?
• During the disaster, my child’s other parent evacuated with my child and will not bring them back. What do I do?
• I have a pending child support/custody/divorce proceeding. What do I need to do to stay notified of any future hearings?
• Our court order requires exchanges at a location I cannot get to due to the evacuation. What should I do?

A. Protective Orders

One common way to combat domestic violence and other violence is by obtaining a protective order from a court. Texas law authorizes the courts to issue protective orders for domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or trafficking. A protective order is a civil court order to prevent continued acts of violence.

Protective orders for family violence are issued under Title 4 of the Texas Family Code and protective orders for sexual assault or abuse, stalking, or trafficking are issued under Chapter 7B of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Protective orders for sexual assault are discussed further in the “FAQ” section.

Family violence includes any intimate partner violence and violence from current or former members of the same household. For a family violence protective order, after notice and a hearing, a court must issue a protective order if it finds family violence occurred. Tex. Fam. Code § 85.001. An adult member of the family may file an application for a protective order to protect not only the applicant, but also any member of the applicant’s family or household. Tex. Fam. Code § 82.002(a). Any adult can apply for a family violence protective order on behalf of a child. Tex. Fam. Code § 82.002(c). An application for a protective order may be filed in the county where the applicant resides, where the respondent resides, or where the violence allegedly occurred. Tex. Fam. Code § 82.003. Certain violations of a protective order can be charged as a criminal offense under Tex. Pen. Code § 25.07(g). Other violations can be punished by contempt of court, fines, or jail time.

There are many similarities between protective orders issued under Title 4 and Chapter 7B, but the most important distinctions are that, unlike family violence protective orders, no specific relationship must exist between the victim and the abuser to request a sexual assault, stalking, or trafficking protective order. Tex. Code Crim. Proc. § 7B.001. The court must issue a protective order under Chapter 7B if the court finds that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the applicant is the victim of sexual assault or abuse, indecent assault, stalking, or trafficking. Tex. Code Crim. Proc. § 7B.003. A sexual assault protective order may be requested for an adult or by a parent or guardian on behalf of a child victim against a family member or an unrelated alleged perpetrator. Tex. Code Crim. Proc. § 7B.001(a).

The duration of a family violence protective order typically cannot exceed two years. Tex. Fam. Code § 85.025(a)(1). However, in certain circumstances, the court can enter a family violence protective order that lasts longer than two years and, for sexual assault, stalking, or trafficking, the court can enter protective orders up to the duration of the lives of the offender and victim. Tex. Fam. Code § 85.025(a– 1)(1)–(3); Tex. Code Crim. Proc. § 7B.007.

A hearing on the protective order will be scheduled within 20 days of the issuance of the temporary exparte protective order. The abuser must be served in person with the protective order application and ex parte protective order. If the abuser appears in court and does not agree to the protective order, a hearing will be required where you and any witnesses for both parties will testify. After hearing from both sides, the Judge will make the decision whether to issue a final protective order.

The same “clear and present danger” requirement is necessary for ex parte applications in protective orders filed under Tex. Code Crim. Proc. § 7B.002. An applicant can apply for a protective order as its own case, or as part of a divorce or a suit affecting the parent-child relationship. Tex. Fam. Code § 82.005. Protective orders can do more than prevent violence: protective orders may also establish possession of a child, prohibit the transfer of property, award property temporarily, require payment of child support, and require the abuser to vacate the residence. See Tex. Fam. Code §§ 85.021–.022 for a full list of what a court may include in a protective order. Additionally, recent changes to the Texas Family Code allow protective order recipients to separate their wireless telephone number, or their child’s wireless telephone number, from the respondent’s account. No penalties may be imposed for early contract termination, and the applicant should not be held responsible for any outstanding balance on the account. Although some fees may apply, no fees should be charged for the transfer of the phone numbers. These changes only apply to a petition for protective order which is filed on or after September 1, 2021. Tex. Fam. Code § 85.0225.

B. Conservatorship and Possession

In Texas, the terms “custody” and “visitation” are referred to as “conservatorship” and “possession.” “Conservatorship” refers to the rights and duties regarding the child, and “possession” refers to access to the child. When a Texas court is asked to issue an order affecting child custody, visitation, or support, the original petition filed is called a suit affecting the parent-child relationship (SAPCR). Determining whether Texas has jurisdiction over a custody case may be complicated if the child has lived in multiple states. Prior to filing suit, it is important to know which state is the child’s “home state.” “Home state” is defined as the state in which a child lived with a parent or a person acting as a parent for at least six consecutive months immediately before the commencement of a child custody proceeding. In the case of a child less than six months of age, the term means the state in which the child lived from birth with a parent or a person acting as the parent. Tex. Fam. Code § 152.102(7).

One of the main purposes of a custody case is to allocate rights and duties between the parties. The court may appoint a party the child’s sole managing conservators (SMC) or may name the parties joint managing conservators (JMC). Tex. Fam. Code § 153.005. Most custody orders name the parents joint managing conservators. A court will order a JMC unless there is a good reason not to, such as family violence. Tex. Fam. Code § 153.131(b). A JMC order normally requires that the parents share decision-making about the child’s education, medical treatment, legal decisions, and similar issues. A JMC order does not mean that the child’s time is split equally between the parents. Tex. Fam. Code § 153.135.

One of the main purposes of a custody case is to allocate rights and duties between the parties. The court may appoint a party the child’s sole managing conservators (SMC) or may name the parties joint managing conservators (JMC). Tex. Fam. Code § 153.005. Most custody orders name the parents joint managing conservators. A court will order a JMC unless there is a good reason not to, such as family violence. Tex. Fam. Code § 153.131(b). A JMC order normally requires that the parents share decision-making about the child’s education, medical treatment, legal decisions, and similar issues. A JMC order does not mean that the child’s time is split equally between the parents. Tex. Fam. Code § 153.135.

In most custody orders, one parent will have the right to decide where the child lives. Tex. Fam. Code § 153.134(b)(1). This person usually has the right to enroll the child in school and receive child support on behalf of the child. This parent may be referred to as the custodial parent.

When there is a good reason to do so, a court can name one parent a sole managing conservator. Tex. Fam. Code § 153.131. A SMC order can limit or take away the noncustodial parent’s access to the child and right to make decisions about the child. The parent who is the sole managing conservator has the exclusive right to make important decisions for the child. See Tex. Fam. Code § 153.132for a list of the rights and duties of a parent sole managing conservator.

Existing custody orders must be modified in the court which issued the original order (the “court of continuing jurisdiction”) unless the case is transferred. See Tex. Fam. Code §§ 155.201–.202 for when a SAPCR can be transferred from the court of continuing jurisdiction to another court in Texas. Under Tex. Fam. Code § 156.101, the standard for modification is that modifying the order is in the best interest of the child and “the circumstances of the child, a conservator, or other party affected by the order have materially and substantially changed.” Some common qualifying changes include relocation of the parties, abuse committed by one of the parties, and demonstrated lapses in a party’s decision-making that impacts the child’s health, safety, and wellbeing. However, there is a heightened standard to modify the right to decide where the child lives within a year of the last court order being rendered. Tex. Fam. Code § 156.102.

C. Useful Websites

• For general information on many family law issues and sample forms, visit Texas Law Help.
• For general information on services for crime victims, visit the Office of the Attorney General.
• For general information on getting child support orders in cases involving family violence, visit here. For general information on modification of child support orders, visit Modify Child Support.

To apply for legal aid, contact:

• Legal Aid for Survivors of Sexual Assault
  1-800-991-5153
• Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas, Inc.
  1-888-529-5277
• Lone Star Legal Aid, Inc.
  1-866-659-0666
• Texas Advocacy Project
  1-800-374-HOPE (4673)
• Texas RioGrande Legal Aid, Inc.
  1-833-329-TRLA (8752)
• Texas Legal Services Center
  1-800-622-2520

Helpful websites and phone numbers:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline
  1-800-799-7233 (24/7/365 hotline)
• Texas Department of Family and Protective Services
• Office of the Attorney General Child Support Division

Q. 13-1 What do I do if I lost the physical copy of my protective order in a disaster and it is not in the police database?

If you relocated to Texas after a disaster and have a protective order that was issued by a court in a different state, it is still enforceable. According to Tex. Fam. Code § 88.004(a)–(c), Texas does not require you to have a certified copy of your protective order for it to be enforced. As long as the officer “determine[s] that there is probable cause to believe that a valid foreign protective order exists by relying on any relevant information,” the order will be enforced.

Although not required, it is good practice to keep multiple copies of the protective order, including an electronic version stored on your phone or email. Regardless of where the violation occurred or what state you reside in, if your protective order has been violated, you can call the police immediately.

Q. 13-2 I had to relocate to a different state following a disaster. Is my protective order still enforceable?

Likely yes. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) states that a foreign protective order that meets federal requirements “shall be accorded full faith and credit by the court of another State . . . and enforced . . . as if it were the order of the enforcing State . . .” 18 U.S.C. § 2265(a). A protective order meets federal requirements if (1) the issuing court had jurisdiction over the parties and matter and (2) reasonable notice and opportunity to be heard was given to the respondent. 18 U.S.C. § 2265(b).

Further, you generally do not need to register or file the protective order in the new state for it to be enforceable. 18 U.S.C. § 2265(d)(2). However, some states do have specific rules regarding registration and filing of protective orders which may make enforcement easier. Consult an attorney or the laws of the state you relocate to in order to make sure you are in compliance.

If you have relocated to Texas, your foreign (meaning out-of-state) protective order will be judicially enforced if the order is valid on its face. Tex. Fam. Code § 88.003. A valid order has the names of both the protected individual and respondent, is current, was rendered by a court with jurisdiction over both the parties and the subject matter, and was rendered after the respondent was given reasonable time for notice and an opportunity to be heard. Tex. Fam. Code § 88.003(d). And, under Tex. Fam. Code § 88.004, a law enforcement officer will enforce a protective order when there is probable cause that a protective order exists and that it has been violated. You do not need to register or file your protective order in Texas in order for it to be enforced. Tex. Fam. Code § 88.004(e).

It is important to note that if you have any orders for custody of a child and you are planning to move with that child out of state, or you do move due to an emergency, you should consult with an attorney as soon as possible to review your orders.

Q. 13-3 How can I make sure my abuser doesn’t find me in a disaster-relief shelter?

If you have a protective order, it may include a provision that your address remain confidential. Tex. Fam. Code §§ 82.011, 85.007.

If you have a final order from a SAPCR, such as a child custody or child support order, it must contain the addresses of each party. Tex. Fam. Code § 105.006. Each party is under an obligation to notify all other parties of any change of address; however, if a court finds that requiring this disclosure of information subjects the child or conservator to family violence, the court may order that the information not be disclosed to the other party. You should first find out if your order exempts you from disclosing your change of address. If it does not, you can file a motion for the court to waive this requirement if providing your address would likely expose you or your child to harassment, abuse, or serious injury. Tex. Fam. Code § 105.007(c)

Texas also has a program called the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP). The ACP is administered by the Office of the Attorney General and designates a post office box address for participants as a way to increase the safety of family violence victims. Participants can use this address in place of an actual residential, business, or school address, and it can be used as the main address for driver’s licenses, school registration, and for most court and government documents. For more information on the program and how to apply, visit the Office of the Attorney General - Address Confidentiality Program website. Also, see the information in the “Protective Order” overview above, which discusses when a protective order recipient may separate their wireless telephone number or their child’s wireless telephone number from the respondent’s account.

Q. 13-4 I have been sexually assaulted in a disaster-relief shelter. What can I do?

Even if you have not called the police to report, you can file for a sexual assault protective order (SAPO). Tex. Code Crim. Proc. § 7B.001. You do not have to pay court costs to request a protective order. For help with applying for a SAPO, contact the county or district attorney or the legal aid program covering your area. A SAPO can be filed in the county where you live, the county where the offender lives, or any county in which an element of the offense occurred. Tex. Code Crim. Proc. § 7B.001(b) et seq. Texas law allows for a SAPO to be granted for a victim of several offenses, including indecent assault. Tex. Code Crim. Proc. § 7B.001(a)(1).

At the time you file your application for a SAPO, the judge can enter a temporary ex parte order to protect you and other members of your family or household on a finding that there “is a clear and present danger of sexual assault or abuse.” Tex. Code Crim. Proc. § 7B.002. To grant this temporary order, the judge will review the affidavit that you submitted in your protective order application. The purpose of the temporary protective order is to protect you until the protective order hearing takes place. At the final hearing, the court will grant the SAPO if it finds there are reasonable grounds to believe the applicant is a victim of sexual assault or abuse, indecent assault, stalking, or trafficking. Tex. Code Crim. Proc. § 7B.003. A pro se SAPO packet may be found here.

Lastly, sexual assault victims are guaranteed certain rights under Texas law, regardless of whether you have reported the assault. For an overview discussion of these rights, see generally:

• Sexual Assault Survivors: Know Your Legal Rights!
• Sexual Assault Examinations Without Police Involvement
• www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/cvs/sexual-assault-information-for-adult-survivors

Q. 13-5 I am the child’s grandparent or other relative, but I do not have a court order for custody. Can I still enroll my grandchild in school and obtain medical care?

If you have one parent’s cooperation, under Tex. Fam. Code § 34.002 a parent can sign an “authorization agreement” to authorize an adult caregiver to provide temporary care for a child. If the agreement is signed and sworn to before a notary public, the adult caregiver can authorize medical treatment, obtain health insurance coverage for the child, enroll the child in school, authorize the child’s participation in recreational activities, authorize the child to obtain a driver’s license, authorize the child’s employment, receive public benefits on behalf of the child, and obtain personal identification documents for the child. For a full list of what the agreement must contain, see Tex. Fam. Code § 34.003.

However, under Tex. Fam. Code § 34.008, an authorization agreement will be terminated if the parent revokes consent, gives notice to all parties, and files the revocation with the appropriate clerk of county. Further, if a court enters an order regarding custody or placement of the child, access to or visitation with the child, appointment of guardianship, or anything affecting the parent-child relationship, the authorization agreement will be terminated. Find the form along with instructions for completing it here.

If you do not have the parent’s cooperation, another option is to request an order for temporary authority for care of a minor child. Under Tex. Fam. Code § 35.002and 35.005, if the child has lived with you for at least the last thirty days before the date the petition was filed, if there is not already a written authorization agreement in place, and if the parent or guardian of the child does not object to you having authority to care for the child, you can ask the court for temporary authority. After filing the petition, a hearing will be set. Under Tex. Fam. Code § 35.005, if the child does not have a parent available to give consent, the court must award temporary authority if “it is necessary to the child’s welfare and no objection is made by the child’s parent, conservator, or guardian.” This authority also allows you to consent to medical treatment and enroll the child in school. This authority does not modify any existing custody orders and/or court-ordered rights and duties of the child’s conservators. The order lasts for one year. Tex. Fam. Code § 35.005(d). It can be renewed for a period of not more than one year based on a showing of continued need for the order. Tex. Fam. Code § 35.006.

Helpful information for grandparents and other relatives) may be found in the Texas Kincare Primer.

Q. 13-6 I had to evacuate my home. Where do I go to modify my child’s custody or support order?

Q. 13-7 What if my child’s other parent refuses to pay child support after the disaster?

When circumstances change, a parent paying child support can ask the court to modify the child support order. The standard for modification under Tex. Fam. Code § 156.401 is a material and substantial change in the circumstances of the child or a person affected by the order. Usually this is satisfied if the noncustodial parent’s income has decreased or the child’s living arrangements have changed. Therefore, it could be possible that loss of a job due to a natural disaster would satisfy the material and substantial change needed to lessen a child support amount. The parent must file for a modification with the court, request a hearing, and continue paying the support in the current order until the modification is granted.

If the parent does not take these steps, they are still under a legal duty to pay child support. The Office of the Attorney General is responsible for the enforcement of child support orders. If a noncustodial parent is not paying child support, the custodial parent should contact the Child Support Division for help filing an enforcement action. If the noncustodial parent has relocated to a different state because of the disaster, the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA) allows for the enforcement of a child support order over an obligor living in another state.

Custodial parents can call the Child Support Division of the Attorney General’s Office 24-hour hotline at 1-800-252-8014 for more information and assistance.

Q. 13-8 During the disaster my child’s other parent evacuated with my child and will not give them back. What do I do?

Q. 13-9 I have a pending child support/custody/divorce proceeding. What do I need to do to stay notified of any future hearings?

If your residence or mailing address changes, you will want to update the court’s file with a mailing address where you can receive mail to make sure that you are sent notice of any hearings that are scheduled in your ongoing case. Texas Law Help offers a free Notice of Current Address form. If you have a court order that says your address and other information should be kept confidential, consider using a P.O. box or other safe address that does not disclose your physical location. Please review the information regarding the Office of the Attorney General’s Address Confidentiality Program contained in this guide in Q. 13-3 and online for instructions on how to apply for this free program for crime survivors. If you provide an email address, be sure that it is an email address that you can access and check regularly. If you plan to move with your children, make sure to consult with an attorney first to ensure you do not violate any current standing orders by moving.

Q.13-10 Our court order requires exchanges at a location I cannot get to due to the evacuation. What should I do?

If you are unable to deliver the child to the court-ordered exchange location, you should reach out to the other party to notify them. If it is safe to do so, you can try to reach an agreement regarding an alternative location to exchange the children. If you cannot reach an agreement, it is a good idea to keep a log of what happened that day and why you couldn’t make it. It is also advisable to keep a copy of any texts, emails, or voicemails regarding the conversation in case an enforcement suit is filed in the future. This will help you explain the disaster-related circumstances that prevented you from complying with the order to the judge.

For information regarding enrolling children in school, special education, or any other education issues post-disaster, please see the education chapter.

A power of attorney for a nonparent caregiver gives an agent permission to make decisions for a child that a parent would usually make. An example of this is the “authorization agreement” discussed in detail in Q. 13-5 above.

To assist in the caregiving of an elder parent, a person may wish to be able to have decision-making authority over the affairs of their elder parent. In this case, a person may wish to take control (1) immediately (durable power of attorney), (2) upon the incapacity or disability of an elder parent (springing power of attorney), or (3) when a medical treatment decision arises and the elder parent is mentally or physically unable to make a decision (medical power of attorney).

For a POA to be legally enforceable, an adult must acknowledge the authorization of power in writing in the witness of a notary public or other person authorized to “take acknowledgments to deeds of conveyance” or “administer oaths.” Tex. Est. Code § 751.0021(4). In Texas, the easiest way to ensure a POA will be in compliance with the legal requirements is to utilize the form titled Statutory Durable Power of Attorney that the Texas legislature has provided at Tex. Est. Code § 752.051.This form will allow an elder parent to give their child permission to access bank accounts, sell property and make other important decisions when such elder parent becomes incapacitated or unable to make decisions. By default, the durable POA will stay in effect until revoked by the elder parent or until such elder parent dies.

The Texas Supreme Court issued a series of emergency orders to adjust court procedure rules in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The final emergency order expired on March 1, 2023. However, the Texas Supreme Court issued revised Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 21 and 21(d) to authorize courts to allow or require participants to appear at court proceedings electronically. Unless a hearing notice states otherwise, the hearing will be held in person in the courtroom. Hearing notices should include the location of the proceeding or instructions for joining the proceeding electronically. A party can object to the method of appearance upon a showing of good cause within a reasonable time after receiving the hearing notice.

Disasters can uniquely impact families involved in the child welfare system and children and youth in foster care. This section provides a brief overview of how these systems function, resources to support clients involved in these systems, and answers to specific questions that may arise during disasters.

• Can reports of abuse or neglect be made during a disaster?
• I’ve been reported for abuse or neglect of a child—what do I do now?
• What do I do if I cannot comply with my CPS service plan?
• What is CPS supposed to do during a disaster?
• How will my CPS court hearings be impacted by a disaster?
• What do I do if I am displaced during a disaster and CPS is investigating me?
• How can I make sure my child, who is in foster care, is safe during a disaster?
• How am I supposed to have visits with my child who is in foster care during a disaster?
• How can I make a complaint against CPS?
• How can I help children and youth in foster care during a disaster?
• What resources are available for homeless youth during disasters?

A. General Information

• Children’s Commission
• DFPS Policy Handbooks
• DFPS Office of Consumer Affairs

B. For Parents/Caregivers

• Parent Resource Guide (English)
• Parent Resource Guide (Spanish) (Manual de Recursos para Padres y Madres de Familia)
• TLSC Family Helpline

C. For Current and Former Foster Youth (and those that help them)

• Texas Homeless Youth Handbook
• Foster Care Ombudsman (only for those under 18 and in foster care):
• Rights of Children and Youth in Foster Care
• Texas Foster Youth Justice Project
• Texas Youth Helpline (call, text, or chat)
• DFPS Regional Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) Coordinators
• DFPS Regional Transition Centers
• DFPS Understanding the Roles of the People Involved in a CPS Case (videos)
• DFPS Reentry Liaisons for Extended Foster Care
• DFPS Housing Programs and Regional Housing Liaisons

Q. 13-11 Can reports of abuse or neglect be made during a disaster?

As of September 1, 2023, DFPS will no longer be permitted to receive anonymous reports of abuse or neglect. The reporter will be required to provide their name, address and phone number, facts leading the reporter to believe abuse or neglect has occurred, and the source of the information. Individuals not willing to share the required information will be referred to state or local law enforcement agencies. Tex. Fam. Code § 261.104.

***Attorneys should remember that they are considered “mandated reporters” under Tex. Fam. Code §

261.101 and have a duty to report suspected child abuse and neglect that supersedes all privacy, confidentiality, and privilege protections. Best practices for reporting include telling clients about your duty to report so they can choose what to tell you. If you must report, invite your client to make the report with you and, if the situation is not urgent, report using the website so you can control how much and what information is shared with DFPS.

Q. 13-12 I’ve been reported for abuse or neglect of a child—what do I do now?

Make sure you have all the information about the investigation. Find out the contact information for the caseworker and the caseworker’s supervisor. Make sure you have copies of any safety plan, service plan, or any other document related to the investigation. Communicate with the investigator often and update them whenever anything changes—your contact information, your availability, or any changes regarding your child. Check your voicemail, text messages, email, and regular mail often to make sure you do not miss a communication with the investigator or someone else related to the investigation. Keep all documents and contact information in a safe place. You can call your local legal aid agency or TLSC Family Helpline if you want to talk to someone about your questions. You may find it helpful to review the Parent Resource Guide (English) / Manual de Recursos para Padres y Madres de Familia (Spanish) so you know what to expect from the investigation and any future court case that may be filed.

If the investigation finds there is “reason to believe” you committed abuse or neglect, your name will be included in the DFPS central registry of abuse and neglect which, while not available to the public, can limit your opportunities to work with children or foster or adopt children. Tex. Fam. Code § 261.002; 40 Tex. Admin. Code § 702.251. You should know that even if they don’t remove your children or take any other action, they may still make this finding, and it will stay on your record unless you take the required steps to challenge the finding by the applicable deadline.

You can request an Administrative Review of Investigation Findings (ARIF) to challenge a reason to believe finding. An ARIF provides an informal review process for a person who has been designated as a perpetrator of abuse or neglect. 40 Tex. Admin. Code § 707.505(a). If you want to request an ARIF, you must submit a written request to DFPS within forty-five days after receiving notice of the findings of the investigation. 40 Tex. Admin. Code § 707.505(b). You may hire an attorney to represent you at the ARIF, but you do not have to. 40 Tex. Admin. Code § 707.505(g). If the ARIF is not favorable, you can then request a due process hearing to be held before the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) or you can waive the ARIF and proceed directly to the SOAH hearing. 40 Tex. Admin. Code § 707.505(k).

Q. 13-13 What do I do if I cannot comply with my CPS service plan?

If you are not able to comply with your CPS service plan because of a disaster or another reason, you should contact your investigator or caseworker as soon as you find out that you will not be able to comply, but you should make every effort to comply. Try to find creative ways to access services (for example, find out if virtual counseling or parenting sessions are available). If the services you are required to complete are not being offered, you should not have to resume the services until they are offered again.

As of September 1, 2023, a parent who is required to complete a service plan may obtain services from a qualified or licensed provider selected by the parent, and CPS will be required to reimburse service providers who are not under contract with CPS. Tex. Fam. Code § 263.1021.

Q. 13-14 What is CPS supposed to do during a disaster?

Foster and adoptive parents caring for children in foster care have to notify their caseworker if they are impacted by a disaster. If required by local city or county authorities, foster and adoptive parents will be required to evacuate their homes. They must take a two-week supply of medication in its bottle, other medical supplies and equipment, important paperwork, their personalized disaster plan, and contact information for the family’s and child’s caseworkers and supervisors. CPS Handbook § 7642. Other functions of CPS, such as investigation and casework of active removal cases, will continue.

Q. 13-15 How will my CPS court hearings be impacted by a disaster?

You should contact your attorney with any questions you have about your court hearings. If you are not represented by an attorney, you should ask the caseworker, check the courthouse website, and call the court’s office to ask about hearings. A disaster may impact whether the courthouse is open and how the hearings are handled. Your hearing may be rescheduled or may take place virtually. You should talk to your attorney about whether it is possible for you to appear at the hearing virtually (by telephone or video) if you are unable to attend.

Q. 13-16 What do I do if I am displaced during a disaster and CPS is investigating me?

You need to make sure you communicate with your investigator or caseworker if there are any changes in your residence or contact information. There may be consequences in your case if you do not inform your investigator or caseworker of your displacement and they cannot reach you. Lack of communication with your investigator or caseworker and absence from your home could be considered to be interference with an investigation, Tex. Fam. Code § 261.303, or failure to cooperate with investigation, Tex. Fam. Code

§ 261.3031. In fact, it is a criminal offense if you intend to interfere with the investigation and relocate your residence without notifying CPS of your new address, or you conceal your child and your relocation or concealment interferes with the investigation. Tex. Fam. Code § 261.3032.

Q. 13-17 How can I make sure my child, who is in foster care, is safe during a disaster?

Tex. Fam. Code § 264.018. Keep in mind that your caseworker will be extremely busy following up with all the children on their caseload and may not be able to contact you immediately.

Q. 13-18 How am I supposed to have visits with my child who is in foster care during a disaster?

CPS should make every attempt to coordinate visits as long as the visit will not harm your child. If in- person visits are not possible, CPS should try to arrange a virtual visit. You should communicate with your caseworker about the best way to continue visits in a way that will continue to keep your child safe.

Q. 13-19 How can I make a complaint against CPS?

Complaints about CPS can be made through the Office of Consumer Affairs (OCA). You can contact the OCA in a number of ways:

• Phone: 1-800 720-7777, Monday – Friday, 8:00A.M. – 4:30 P.M.
• Complete an online complaint form
• Print a form and return by email, fax, or regular mail
• Email: oca@dfps.texas.gov
• Fax: 1-512-339-5892
• Regular mail: OCA/DFPS, PO Box 149030, Mail Code Y946, Austin, TX 78714-9030

Note that the OCA can only investigate and review decisions made by CPS—they cannot change a court order or review actions taken by law enforcement. If you want to challenge a court decision, you need to talk to your attorney. If you have a complaint about your attorney, you can tell the court or consider filing a grievance with the State Bar of Texas.

Q. 13-20 How can I help children and youth in foster care during a disaster?

Supportive adults are critical to the success of a youth’s transition out of foster care. Since many youth are no longer in contact with their family, having a supportive adult to go to for advice and help navigating the adult world can make a positive impact. The needs of a child or youth in or transitioning out of foster care during a disaster are intensified. They are always at great risk of exploitation and homelessness and can experience trauma and instability. Aged-out foster youth can connect with supportive benefits and services through their Regional PAL Coordinatoror Regional Transition Center.

Q. 13-21 What resources are available for homeless youth during disasters?

Various programs exist across Texas to address the needs of homeless youth. See the Provider Directory compiled by the Texas Network of Youth Services (TNOYS) to find emergency shelters, drop-in centers, housing providers, counseling providers, and transition centers. You can find more information for homeless youth in the Texas Homeless Youth Handbook.