When DHR Sends a Letter — Pay Attention. Your Rights and Your Family May Be on the Line.
Families across Alabama are often blindsided by a letter in the mail marked from the Department of Human Resources (DHR). It’s quiet. It doesn’t make a loud scene. But what’s inside that envelope has the power to change your life — and your child’s future.
If you’ve received a CAN (Child Abuse/Neglect) hearing letter, DHR is letting you know that they intend to “indicate” you — meaning they believe there is credible evidence to support that you committed abuse or neglect, and they are planning to put your name on the statewide child abuse registry.
Let us be clear: THIS IS SERIOUS. And you CANNOT afford to ignore it.
What Is a CAN Hearing?
A CAN hearing is a Child Abuse/Neglect administrative hearing. It’s DHR’s version of giving you a chance to “appeal” their decision to indicate you.
But if you don’t respond to the letter or request a hearing within the stated timeframe (usually 10–30 days), DHR will automatically list your name on the registry — without your side ever being heard.
That registry can:
Block you from working with children or the elderly Impact custody or visitation in family court Be shared across agencies, even outside your state
This is not a criminal court, and you do not need to be convicted of any crime for DHR to do this.
Why You Must Respond Immediately
Too many parents throw these letters away out of fear, confusion, or disbelief. Some don’t even understand what they’re reading. Others have never been charged with a crime and assume it must be a mistake.
But silence equals surrender.
By not responding, you are accepting the outcome.
This is what they count on.
They expect you to freeze.
They expect you to feel powerless.
They expect you to give up.
But we are here to say — you have every right to fight back.
Steps You Can Take Immediately
Read the letter closely. Take note of the deadline to request a hearing. These deadlines are strict. Do not ignore it. Respond in writing and request an administrative hearing. Even if you think the accusation is false or minor, you must respond.
Send all communications by certified mail. Any response you send — especially a hearing request — should be mailed certified with return receipt. This proves that DHR received your letter and protects you if they later claim you never responded.
Request your DHR records. You have a right to access the case file and any documentation related to the allegations.
Get legal support. If possible, connect with an attorney who understands dependency or administrative law. If you can’t afford one, seek legal aid or advocacy organizations.
Prepare your response. Write down everything you remember about the situation and gather any evidence or witnesses who can support your version of events.
Document everything. Keep track of dates, calls, names, and every interaction with DHR. This matters later.
Take Action, Not Chances
Too many good parents are being caught in the web of DHR’s unchecked authority — especially in Alabama. A simple letter can spiral into job loss, family court restrictions, and a lifelong stigma that follows you from place to place.
But that only happens if you don’t fight.
You are not alone. You are not powerless. And you are not crazy for wanting to protect your child, your name, and your future.
Final Note:
Every letter from DHR matters.
Every unopened envelope could be another trap.
Every missed deadline could be a permanent scar.
And every communication you send needs a paper trail.
Send certified. Respond boldly. And never, ever stay silent.
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