What is the typical process after a report is filed?

• A. Intake, investigation or assessment, safety planning, possible services, and court involvement if needed.
• B. Investigation only, with no intake or safety planning.
• C. Court hearing first, then intake.
• D. Immediate service provision without assessment.

Answer: (A)

After a report is filed, the response starts with intake, where information is gathered, the report is reviewed, and initial questions are asked to determine whether it warrants a formal inquiry. If action is warranted, the next step is an investigation or assessment to determine the child's safety and the level of risk, collecting facts to decide the appropriate next actions. Safety planning then follows to reduce immediate danger, which may involve temporary supervision, removal from danger if needed, and arranging protective measures with the family and supports.

Depending on what is found, services may be offered or connected to address underlying issues like counseling, parenting support, or housing help. If safety cannot be assured in the home, or legal protection is required, court involvement may be initiated to obtain protective orders, determine custody, or authorize removal. This sequence ensures information is gathered, risk and safety are assessed, the child is protected, supports are provided, and the courts are used if needed.

The other options skip essential steps or place actions in an illogical order, such as starting with investigation without intake, requiring court involvement before any assessment, or providing immediate services without an assessment.