The Child Advocate’s decision is final and cannot be appealed. In some situations, you may be able to speak with the Advocate for more information about how the decision was reached.
No. The OCA cannot investigate issues involving the behavior or communication of MDHHS employees. If you have concerns about how a worker is treating you, please contact the MDHHS supervisor in the county where your case is handled.
No. The OCA’s authority is limited to reviewing the actions of agencies involved in child welfare, CPS, foster care, juvenile justice, and adoption. The OCA cannot review or change court orders or judicial decisions.
To confirm the status of a CPS case, you must contact the county handling your case and speak with your caseworker or their supervisor.
No. The OCA cannot investigate matters handled by the Friend of the Court, including custody, parenting time, or child support.
You may call the OCA’s main phone line to ask about the status of an OCA investigation.
All OCA investigation records are confidential and cannot be shared. If you have questions about your case, you may contact the OCA directly.
No. The OCA cannot investigate matters involving the termination of parental rights and does not have the authority to change or overturn those decisions.
After you submit a complaint, the OCA will contact you within 10 business days. They will determine whether they have the authority to review your concern.
If the OCA cannot investigate, staff will give you information or guidance when possible.
If the OCA has authority, they will begin a preliminary investigation.
This step is completed within 30 business days, unless an extension is required due to outside circumstances.
After the review, the OCA will decide whether to:
If a full investigation is required, the case is assigned to an OCA investigator.
Most investigations are completed within one year.
Delays in court proceedings can sometimes slow down the investigation.
After the investigation is complete, the Child Advocate may share recommendations with the Governor, Legislature, and the MDHHS Director if the findings could help improve Michigan’s child welfare system.
