Resources

FAQs
27 of the most frequently asked questions about the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS).

South Carolina DSS Basics
Basic information about child protective services, including principles that DSS operates by.

• What does the Department of Social Services do?
• What options does DSS have?
• When does the Department of Social Services act?
• Should you cooperate with DSS?

DSS Child Protective Services Removal of Child
Information about when, why, and how DSS removes a child from the home.

• Does DSS always remove a child when it suspects abuse?
• When is DSS removal of a child appropriate?

Termination of Parental Rights
The grounds and common considerations for termination of parental rights in South Carolina.

• 8 common grounds for termination of parental rights in South Carolina

Your Parental Rights
Your rights as a parent according to federal and state law.

• DSS has filed a petition – what are my rights?
• South Carolina DSS doesn’t always get it right