Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

Who has the authority to take protective custody of a child?

1. Child Protection Investigator

2. Only law enforcement officers

3. Emergency medical technicians

4. Crisis counselors

The correct answer is: Child Protection Investigator

The authority to take protective custody of a child typically resides with a Child Protection Investigator. This role is specifically designed to assess and address situations where a child's welfare is in jeopardy. These investigators are trained to evaluate risks and make decisions in the best interest of the child, which may include removing the child from a harmful environment. While law enforcement officers play a critical role in enforcing the law and can assist in situations involving child protection—especially when immediate action is required—essentially, the authority to determine protective custody rests primarily with child protective services and their trained investigators. Emergency medical technicians and crisis counselors have important responsibilities in their respective fields, but they do not possess the same legal authority to take protective custody of a child. Their roles focus more on immediate intervention and support rather than legal custody decisions. Thus, the Child Protection Investigator stands as the designated authority in these situations.