Dependency Decoded

Dependency Decoded
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Welcome to Dependency Decoded, the podcast that breaks down Washington State’s child welfare system into clear, honest, and empowering conversations. Whether you’re a parent, advocate, or just curious about how the dependency process works, this show brings you real talk, real examples, and real help — all in under 15 minutes. Hosted by attorney Richard Ricketts, each episode walks you through the system step by step, helping you understand your rights, your options, and what’s coming next. Subscribe now and join us every week for the insight you deserve — without the legal jargon.

Episodes

  1. 04/12/2025

    The Shelter Care Hearing--Your First Day in Court

    🎙️ Episode 4: The Shelter Care Hearing – Your First Day in Court It all moves fast. And for many parents, it’s the most overwhelming day of the entire CPS case. In this episode of Dependency Decoded, attorney Richard Ricketts walks you through the Shelter Care Hearing — the first court appearance after CPS removes a child from the home. You’ll learn: What the hearing is (and isn’t) Who’s in the room and what their roles are What it means to “waive” shelter care — and why that’s a big decision How to prepare so your voice gets heard You’ll also meet Nico — a fictionalized parent whose story shows how preparation and calm advocacy can keep you in the conversation, even when the outcome isn’t perfect. 📌 If your child has been removed, this is the episode you need to hear before you step into court.

    8 min

  2. 04/12/2025

    Family Team Decision Meetings--What They Are and Why They Matter

    🎙️ Episode 3: Family Team Decision Meetings – What They Are and Why They Matter Your first big meeting with CPS isn’t in a courtroom. It’s around a table — often with people you’ve never met. In Episode 3 of Dependency Decoded, attorney Richard Ricketts breaks down Family Team Decision Meetings(FTDMs): what they are, who’s in the room, and how to prepare so your voice gets heard. You’ll learn: What FTDMs are really for — and what’s at stake Who makes the decisions — and who doesn’t How to prepare so you’re not caught off guard Why your input can help keep your child with family With practical tips and a real-world story about Tonya, a mother who changed the course of her case by speaking up at the right time, this episode helps you walk into the meeting with confidence — and walk out with a plan. 📌 Don’t let the system speak for you. Be ready to speak for yourself.

    8 min

  3. 04/12/2025

    Inside the CPS Investigation--What Happens Next?

    🎙️ Episode 2: Inside the CPS Investigation – What Happens Next? The knock has come. The questions have started. Now what? In Episode 2 of Dependency Decoded, attorney Richard Ricketts walks you through the next phase of a CPS case: the investigation. What does CPS actually look for?Can they interview your kids without you?What happens if you sign a safety plan — or don’t? This episode breaks down: What a CPS investigation is and how long it takes What caseworkers are trained to look for The three possible outcomes at the end Real-world insight from Derrick’s story — and how early legal help made the difference Whether your case is just beginning or you’re deep in the process, this episode helps you understand what’s happening behind the scenes — and what you can do to protect your rights. 📌 Stay calm. Stay informed. Stay in control.

    8 min

  4. 04/12/2025

    The First Call...

    🎙️ Episode 1: The First Call – What To Do When CPS Knocks What would you do if CPS showed up at your door? In this premiere episode of Dependency Decoded, family law attorney Richard Ricketts walks you through the very first — and often most terrifying — moment in a child welfare case: the knock on the door. You’ll learn: Why CPS might contact you What your rights are during that first visit What to say (and what not to do) Common mistakes parents make — and how to avoid them This episode includes real-world examples, practical tips, and clear guidance to help you stay calm, protect your rights, and take control of the moment. 🎧 Whether you’re in the middle of a CPS case or just want to be informed, this is essential listening for any parent in Washington State.

    8 min
  • 4 Episodes

About

Welcome to Dependency Decoded, the podcast that breaks down Washington State’s child welfare system into clear, honest, and empowering conversations. Whether you’re a parent, advocate, or just curious about how the dependency process works, this show brings you real talk, real examples, and real help — all in under 15 minutes. Hosted by attorney Richard Ricketts, each episode walks you through the system step by step, helping you understand your rights, your options, and what’s coming next. Subscribe now and join us every week for the insight you deserve — without the legal jargon.

Information

  • Creator
    Dependency Decoded
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    4
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dependency Decoded
  • Show Website
    Dependency Decoded