How a Finding of Abuse and Neglect by the DCCP Can Affect Your Employment in New Jersey

When a person is found to have committed abuse or neglect in New Jersey, it can have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate legal and personal ramifications. One significant area where such a finding can have a profound impact is on employment, particularly for those working in fields that involve vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. Understanding the implications of a finding by the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCCP) is crucial for anyone navigating this challenging situation.

Understanding DCCP and Its Role

The Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCCP), part of the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, is responsible for investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect. If the DCCP determines that abuse or neglect has occurred, it can substantiate these findings, which may then be entered into the state’s Central Registry. This registry is a database that tracks individuals who have been found responsible for child abuse or neglect and can be accessed during certain employment background checks.

The Impact on Employment Opportunities

Employment in Child-Related Fields

A substantiated finding of abuse or neglect can be particularly detrimental for those seeking or maintaining employment in fields related to children, such as education, childcare, or healthcare. Employers in these sectors often conduct thorough background checks, including searches of the Central Registry. A finding on this registry can disqualify an individual from employment or lead to termination if they are already employed. This is because employers are legally obligated to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in their care.

Impact on Licensing and Certification:

Many professions, especially those involving vulnerable populations, require specific licenses or certifications. A finding of abuse or neglect can result in the denial, suspension, or revocation of these credentials. For instance, teachers, nurses, social workers, and other professionals may face disciplinary actions from their licensing boards, potentially ending their careers in these fields.

Broader Employment Consequences:

Even outside child-related fields, a finding of abuse or neglect can still have significant repercussions. Many employers conduct background checks as part of their hiring process, and a record on the Central Registry can raise red flags. This can limit employment opportunities in various industries, particularly those where trust, integrity, and a clean background are paramount.

Steps to Take If Faced with a DCCP Finding

Challenge the Finding:

If you have been notified of a substantiated finding, you have the right to challenge it. This can involve an internal administrative review or a formal appeal before the New Jersey Office of Administrative Law. Successfully challenging a finding can prevent it from being entered into the Central Registry, thereby protecting your employment prospects.

Seek Legal Advice:

Given the potentially severe consequences, it is crucial to seek legal counsel if you are facing a DCCP investigation or if a finding has already been made against you. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, help you understand your rights, and work to mitigate the impact on your employment.

Communicate with Employers:

If you are currently employed and a finding has been made, it may be necessary to communicate with your employer proactively, especially if your job involves working with children or other vulnerable groups. Transparency, coupled with a clear plan of action, can sometimes help in managing the situation.

Conclusion

A finding of abuse or neglect by the DCCP in New Jersey is a serious matter that can have lasting implications on your employment. Whether you work in childcare, healthcare, education, or another field, understanding how such a finding can affect your career is essential. By taking proactive steps, such as challenging the finding and seeking legal advice, you can better navigate this difficult situation and work towards protecting your professional future.

About the Author

Katelynn Joye Reilly, an associate with the firm, focuses her practice on family law and general litigation matters. Prior to joining the firm, Kate was a Deputy Attorney General for the Office of the Attorney General in Trenton, NJ, where she litigated child abuse and neglect cases. In her role as a Deputy, she served as an advisor to the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P), negotiated complex child abuse issues, and mediated cases. She conducted highly contested trials often involving multiple witnesses and experts and employed a creative legal approach in order to facilitate successful resolutions for her client and the child. Kate graduated from Pennsylvania State University and Rutgers University School of Law – Camden. She is admitted to practice in New Jersey.