I Received a Letter from DHR That Says the Allegations Against Me Are “Indicated” – Now What?

It’s one of the most gut-wrenching letters you can receive. 

A plain envelope arrives from the Department of Human Resources (DHR). Inside, a letter states that “the allegations against you are indicated.” Your stomach drops. You may not even know what that means, but you instinctively understand—it’s serious. Since 2003, as a family and divorce attorney in Hoover, Alabama, I’ve represented countless clients facing this exact moment. Many are teachers, nurses, parents, or everyday people who suddenly find themselves under investigation for abuse or neglect. The shock is real, the fear is valid, and the consequences can reach far beyond DHR’s office.

So, what does “indicated” mean—and what should you do next?

1. Understanding What “Indicated” Really Means

In DHR’s language, an “indicated” finding means the agency believes there is credible evidence that the allegations—whether of child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment—are true. This isn’t a criminal conviction, but it’s far from harmless.

An indicated finding can lead to:

• Your name being placed on Alabama’s Central Registry for Child Abuse and Neglect

• Potential issues with employment, licensing, or background checks

• Custody complications in family court

• Long-term reputational damage

DHR’s “indicated” status can linger for years, quietly impacting opportunities without you ever having a chance to tell your side of the story.

2. Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Letter

Many people do nothing—often because they’re scared, confused, or believe the matter will “blow over.” Unfortunately, that’s one of the worst mistakes you can make. You have a limited time window—usually 10 to 14 days—to request an administrative review or hearing to challenge the finding. Miss that window, and the “indicated” determination can become permanent. Once finalized, your record may be disclosed to potential employers, licensing boards, and even other agencies that handle custody or adoption cases. Even if you believe DHR misunderstood the facts, or that your case was mishandled, you must respond—strategically and promptly.

3. How the Administrative Review Process Works

If you file a timely appeal, DHR will conduct what’s called an administrative record review or, in some cases, a full administrative hearing.

During this process:

• DHR will assign a reviewing officer to evaluate the file.

• You (or your attorney) can present documentation, witness statements, or other evidence.

• In certain cases, a formal hearing will be scheduled where you can cross-examine witnesses and challenge the evidence.

However, this isn’t a courtroom setting. It’s a quasi-administrative process, which means the rules are different, and knowing how to navigate it effectively can make or break your outcome.

This is where legal representation matters most. A seasoned attorney can help you build a clear, factual record and challenge weak or inconsistent evidence that led to the indicated finding.

4. Common Mistakes People Make After Receiving a DHR “Indicated” Letter

Over the years, I’ve seen good people make costly mistakes—often because they didn’t understand the process or didn’t act fast enough. Here are the most common ones:

• Ignoring the deadline to appeal. Once you miss it, your options narrow dramatically.

• Contacting the caseworker directly without legal guidance. Anything you say can be used against you.

• Failing to gather your own evidence. DHR’s file may contain errors or incomplete information.

• Assuming innocence will speak for itself. Administrative systems are paperwork-driven; facts alone rarely clear your name without formal advocacy.

You have rights—but you must exercise them correctly and within the deadlines.

5. Protecting Your Future: Why Representation Matters

An “indicated” finding isn’t just about the present moment—it’s about your future credibility, employment, and custody rights. Once your name is listed on Central Registry, it can affect:

• Teaching, nursing, and healthcare licensing

• Adoption or foster care approval

• Background checks for government or education-related jobs

Even if criminal charges were never filed, DHR’s record can quietly limit opportunities. Having an attorney who understands how to challenge, overturn, or mitigate an indicated finding can make all the difference between long-term damage and a clean slate.

6. How to Take Control—Right Now

If you’ve received this letter, don’t panic—but don’t delay. Here’s what to do immediately:

1. Note the date on the letter. Deadlines matter.

2. Do not call DHR without counsel. Let your attorney handle communications.

3. Request your case file. You have a right to see what evidence DHR relied upon.

4. Consult an experienced family law attorney who understands both the DHR process and the broader implications for custody or professional licensing.

This is the moment to act—not react.

7. Take the Next Step with Confidence

You don’t have to navigate this alone. For over 22 years, I’ve helped parents, professionals, and families respond to DHR letters, appeal indicated findings, and restore their reputation. If you’re facing this situation now, there’s a clear path forward—but it starts with understanding your rights and acting within the deadlines.

Knowledge is power—and timing is everything. I've created informative guides that help in navigating and understanding the process better.

Final Thought

A DHR “indicated” letter doesn’t define you—but your next steps will. With experienced legal guidance, proactive action, and a clear plan, you can protect your name, your future, and your peace of mind.

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You're not alone—and you're not powerless. These simple, but informative and powerful guides that are strategic, legal, and provide sharp emotional tools that work. These guides are inexpensive, give you valuable knowledge, and peace of mind in addressing the issue you’re facing at a fraction of what it would cost to receive this same information from an in-person consultation with a professional.    

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• False DHR Allegations: What to Do When You’re Falsely Accused in Alabama

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• DHR or CPS Knocked — What Now? Your Rights, What to Say, and How to Protect Yourself as a Parent

• What to Do When DHR or CPS Shows Up Unannounced: Legal and Emotional Survival Blueprint

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—Written by Michael L. Capleone, Esq. | Alabama Family Law Attorney | All rights reserved.

Visit the website to explore resources: https://attorneymlc2003.wixsite.com/website.

About Michael Capleone, Attorney at Law 

Michael Capleone is a seasoned family law attorney based in Hoover, Alabama, with over 22+ years of experience helping clients navigate complex legal challenges, including divorce, child custody, parental rights, grandparent’s rights, military divorces, petition for protection from abuse, CPS and DHR matters, father’s rights, mother’s rights, relationship advice, pets/ animal custody when a relationship or marriage ends, and general family law matters, co-parenting, dealing with a narcissist, emotional recovery, and much more! As a licensed practicing attorney since 2003, is a dedicated advocate for his clients, Michael understands the emotional and legal complexities of family law cases and works tirelessly to secure favorable outcomes in his law practice.

Whether you’re dealing with high-conflict custody battles, seeking modifications to child support or visitation, or facing difficult divorce proceedings, having problems with a toxic ex, trying to co-parent with a narcissist. Michael Capleone provides expert legal tips and topic specific information with wisdom and clarity. He is committed to ensuring that his clients’ rights are protected, and their voices are heard in the courtroom. These blogs and guides that he is creating are meant to provide simple, straightforward, helpful, and powerful practical information for people all across the United States of America and beyond. 

These guides are written in a brief and concise way to get you powerful and useful information that you can easily print off in a reasonable small number of pages. Each guide is a concentrated, no-fluff resource — around 4-5 pages packed with professional insight, legal strategy, and emotional survival tactics. They are designed to cover the real pain points people face in courtrooms and custody fights: defending yourself against false accusations, exposing manipulation without looking petty, protecting your financial future, and keeping your relationship with your children strong in the middle of conflict.

For less than the cost of a single attorney consultation, you get targeted strategies built from over 22+ years of real-world family law experience. These aren’t generic blog articles or cookie-cutter templates. Every guide is designed to give you immediate, actionable steps — the same strategies I teach my own clients — adapted for real people dealing with real, high-stakes problems.

If you're serious about defending your rights, protecting your children, and staying one step ahead of a manipulative ex, these guides aren't just helpful — they're essential. They will save you time, reduce your stress, and help you make smarter moves when everything is on the line.

Winning in court isn’t just about having evidence. It’s about understanding the psychology, the patterns, and the legal strategies that judges actually respond to. These guides put that power in your hands. If you’re ready to stop reacting and start taking control, you’re exactly where you need to be!

For more information on Michael Capleone’s legal services or to schedule a consultation. An experienced Hoover, Alabama family law attorney that guides clients through legal strategy, emotional challenges, relationship problems, legal matters and more to achieve the best positive outcomes. Note: Licensed in the State of Alabama only. 

This blog is for informational/ educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is unique—please consult with a qualified family law attorney licensed in your jurisdiction to discuss your specific situation. Also, this  blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, psychological, or professional advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship or any other professional-client relationship. The information provided is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified attorney, financial advisor, tax professional, psychologist, or other expert regarding your specific situation.

Attorney Michael Capleone