The Stress of our Fathers and Mothers can be passed on to us genetically. Or so says a a recent study. This is a very fundamental revelation and quite amazing. But what does it mean for our law. Does it justify the level of interference from DHS (or your version of children services)?

The problem with DHS in Arkansas is that they are overworked and have a bias that is off the charts. Made up of many good people, they are often viscous in their actions and see just what supports their actions against the parent. If you are poor you are more likely to lose your children. You seldom see rich people in trouble with DHS. Here is how it went down in White v. Arkansas. Right decision, wrong decision, we will never know. But, in either case, this is how it happens. Oh, DO NOT STIPULATE DEPENDANT NEGLECT fight it all the way, in almost every case.

I can't share so much of what I know due to the laws on privacy involving such matters. But I can tell you, never trust the State. Never assume that they are the least bit interested in the truth. They are busy and, right or wrong, they strive to close the case. They take minutes to determine things that will effect you the rest of your life. They will ask you to agree just to make things go easier, you have nothing to worry about, and you had better start fighting from the beginning and you had better document everything. Or you could easily wind up on a maltreatment list, in court on criminal charges, lose your children, or all of the above or any combination.

Here are some helpful tips when dealing with DHS  Even if you are not from Arkansas this might help you.