Legal Question in Family Law in Virginia

Petitioning a circuit court for release or records of an investigation by child

I must file a petition for release of records at Child

Protective services to prove that the allegations were

made with malicious intent.

I have been told I must have an attorney fill out the

petition to the court.


Asked on 12/19/00, 3:21 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Lisa Lane McDevitt McDevitt Law Office

Re: Petitioning a circuit court for release or records of an investigation by ch

An attorney is not required to actually file the petition. There are many legal textbooks written for non-lawyers which should help you to file the petition yourself. Many libraries have these books. Also, call the clerk of the local circuit court and ask that person for a sample petition. Many clerks go out of their way to assist parties trying to file documents in the court. If the clerk is not helpful you may have to hire an attorney. Hiring an attorney is never required, it is usually advisable, however, because there are many legal rights you may not be aware of or you could potentially harm your case if you do not present the request persuasively or properly. If you have any questions please feel free to phone me at my Maryland office at 703-598-9220.

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Answered on 12/28/00, 6:54 pm


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