MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

If the parents of a juvenile cannot be located, whom should you call?

1. The Family Juvenile Court

2. CPS

3. APS

4. A local police station

The correct answer is: CPS

The appropriate action when the parents of a juvenile cannot be located is to call Child Protective Services (CPS). CPS is the agency designated to address situations involving minors who may be in need of assistance, protection, or intervention. When parents or guardians are unreachable, CPS can step in to ensure the welfare of the juvenile, assess the situation, and determine the best course of action. This may include providing temporary housing, connecting the juvenile with emergency services, or locating relatives who could care for the child. While the Family Juvenile Court is involved in adjudicating matters concerning juveniles, they typically engage after an initial protective intervention, rather than being the first point of contact in a scenario where parental presence is crucial for the child's immediate safety. Adult Protective Services (APS) focuses on safeguarding vulnerable adults, not juveniles, which makes them irrelevant in this context. A local police station could provide assistance, but their primary role is law enforcement rather than child welfare. Thus, contacting CPS is the most appropriate and effective response to ensure the juvenile's safety and well-being.