Here are some Challenges to a Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) Referral

An individual may request a grievance hearing to challenge his/her referral to the Child Abuse Central Index in either of the following ways.

1. Request and complete a written and signed request for a grievance hearing.

• The request for grievance hearing must clearly state the factual basis that the individual believes provides a reason for reversal of DCFS’ finding of substantiated abuse.

2. Mail the request to DCFS within 30 calendar days of the date the notice and request for grievance was mailed to the individual. Failure to mail the request for grievance within the prescribed time frame shall constitute waiver of the right to a grievance

3. For individuals to whom no prior notification was mailed regarding his/her referral to the CACI, the request must be filed within 30 calendar days of the individual; becoming aware that he/she is listed on the CACI and/or becoming aware of the grievance process.

• A complainant is deemed aware of the county action or finding when the county mails adequate notice to the complainant’s last known address.

A grievance hearing request shall not be granted if:

• If Dependency Court) has determined the abuse or severe neglect occurred.

• The allegation of abuse or neglect resulting in a referral to the CACI, is currently pending before the court.

The Chief Grievance Review Officer is authorized to:

• Process grievance requests.

• Conduct review hearings.

• Prevent the presence and/or examination of a child at the grievance hearing for good cause.

• Interview the child outside the presence of the parties for the purpose of determining:

• If the child’s participation is voluntary.

• If the child is capable of providing voluntary consent.

• Whether good cause exists for preventing the child from being present and/or testifying at the hearing.

• Permit the testimony and/or presence of a child.

• Limit the questioning of a witness in order to protect the witness from unwarranted embarrassment, oppression, or harassment.

• Allow the DCFS and/or the complainant to submit additional evidence to evaluate whether a finding of substantiated abuse is warranted.

• Continue the hearing for a period not to exceed 10 calendar days if additional evidence or witnesses are necessary to determine the issue at hand.