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The complaints process
Errors in your file can be corrected (noted added) by following the complaints process. Complaints regarding social workers are handled by the Social Worker Registration Board. However all complaints are first handled by the process via CYFS. Be prepared this can be a slow process and may take a few goes at it if you feel they didn't handle the investigation correctly the first time. Always email rather than phone your complaint in. An email gives you a paper trail and allows CYFS to send you a confirmation that they have received your complaint. Some complaints are looked into and solved quickly, others take time. Remember the more proof you can collect and present that something on your file is incorrect the better the chance that it will be corrected. PANIC advocates can help you write up your complaint as well as support you through the complaints process.
Lawyers and your CYFS file
Your lawyer may say they will get a copy of your CYFS file. This is good however as your lawyer does not have the time to go over your file carefully nor are they able to say what is correct information and what isn't, after all they were not there living the situation, then important information could be missed. Finding a serious error in your file can make or break a case and the only person who might know its incorrect is you. PANIC advisors clients to seek their own copy of their file and to do the homework on it (which can take many hours). Taking notes and page numbers, that they can then direct their lawyer to. Giving the lawyer these notes along with any proof you have proving it incorrect can help strengthen your case and aid your lawyer in the work of representing you.