The process of
child removal is complicated and begins when someone suspects that a child has
been abused or neglected. Mandated reporters, who include teachers, health
officials, and others who work with children, must report any suspected abuse
to the Arizona Child Abuse Hotline. From their report, officials determine the
severity of the situation. P1 is the most severe classification and the
response time is within two hours. Investigators interview school aged children
at school and may remove the children at that time. They then immediately
notify the parents of the removal. If they remove, they call PALS, which
organizes placement for the children at Casa de los Niños or similar shelters,
foster homes, group homes, or, ideally, with other family. Within 72 hours, the
Preliminary Protective Hearing (PPH) occurs and the legal process ensues.
https://www.azdes.gov/landing.aspx?id=9485