What is a Children’s Aid Society (CAS)?
Children’s Aid Society (CAS) is an organization responsible for “Child Protection.” This means that CAS in Ontario exist to make sure that children are kept safe.
There are 50 different CAS agencies in Ontario organized by region, such as Toronto CAS, Peel CAS etc. Some agencies in some regions have slightly different names, such as Family and Children’s Services (FACS).
What does it mean if CAS contacts me?
It is possible that a worker from CAS might contact you if someone has told them that they are worried about your child’s safety or how they are being taken care of.
They might contact you or might come to your house to check on the safety of the child and see if they need to get involved.
It is also possible that an organization like the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) might contact CAS if they have any concerns when your child arrives in Canada. CBSA will contact the CAS agency in the region of the CBSA office, not the region where you live.
What are my rights if CAS wants to take my children or get involved with my family?
Do I have the right to stop CAS from entering my home?
No
CAS can enter your home if they are concerned about the safety of a child. They can also bring the police with them.
Does CAS have to inform me every time they come to my house?
No
A CAS worker might call you ahead of time, but they might also show up without telling you. It is recommended that you try to cooperate with CAS.
Can CAS interview or talk to my child without my permission?
Yes
CAS can interview your child without your permission. They might talk to your child with you present or they might talk to your child alone.
My child has been taken away. How soon could I get them back?
It depends
It could be as soon as in a few weeks, or it could be a number of months or even over a year. The CAS needs to investigate what happened first and this can take some time.
They may place your child back with you with some conditions. Or your child may have to stay at a foster home until your case is resolved in court.
Where is my child staying?
They are most likely staying at a foster home. CAS might not tell you where the child is staying. A lawyer can help you ask for information about your child’s care situation.
What is a foster home?
The CAS pays families to take care of children that are taken away from their parents. These are called foster homes.
The CAS tries to place your child with a family that may speak your language, or is of your same religion or cultural background. This is not possible in all regions.
How often can I see my child?
It depends
This is something that needs to be worked out with the CAS and the Court, and it depends on the nature of your case. If you have a lawyer, they can help you to advocate to see your child.
Your visits might be at the CAS supervised, at your home supervised or unsupervised.
You might be allowed to have your child stay with you overnight.
You might also be allowed to talk to your child on the phone or by video call.
Can my child stay with a friend or family instead of a foster home?
This might be possible. This would need to be approved by the CAS and the court first.