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.

Sources:

https://www.azdes.gov/landing.aspx?id=9485