Child Welfare (CAFL)

Attorney Desmarais is a certified attorney with the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) Children and Family Law (CAFL) program. He represents both children and parents in care and protection cases brought by the Department of Children and Families (DCF) in Hampden County Juvenile Court.

Care and protection cases are among the most serious proceedings a family can face. DCF may seek temporary or permanent custody of children, and in the most serious cases, may petition to terminate parental rights. These cases move quickly, and the stakes could not be higher.

Attorney Desmarais works closely with his clients, social workers, and service providers to develop case plans, advocate for reunification when appropriate, and ensure that children's best interests are protected throughout the process. He attends all court hearings, case conferences, and reviews, and maintains regular contact with clients to keep them informed and prepared.

For parents, he fights to preserve the family relationship while ensuring that any safety concerns are addressed through appropriate services. For children, he serves as their independent voice in court, making sure the judge hears what the child needs and wants.