Your Rights Under Adult Protective Services (APS)

You have the right to refuse any and all services offered by Adult Protective Services (APS) at any time.  However, if the APS worker believes you do not understand the risks of refusing help, they may refer you for additional services.  Additionally, APS is required to complete their investigation if there is reason to believe that a crime has been committed.

You have the right to timely referrals for needed services (as appropriate and available).

You have the right to a copy of your service plan and any information you provided to your APS worker.  Information gathered from other people and agencies will not be released.

You have the right to have your information kept confidential.  Because of this right, you may be asked to sign a release of information to allow APS to speak to others about your situation or to coordinate services for you.

Although you have the right to confidentiality, there are certain laws that allow limited exceptions.  The most common exceptions include but are not limited to:

– APS is required to make a report to law enforcement if APS believes that you are the victim of a crime.

– APS may involve law enforcement or medical or mental health professionals if you appear to be a danger to yourself or others.

– APS may make a referral to the Public Guardian if you appear to lack the ability to make your own decisions (for example, if you are suffering from dementia or are seriously disabled and in need of treatment).

– APS may call for emergency medical help if you appear to be too ill to understand that you need immediate medical treatment.

– APS must provide documents when ordered to do so by the court.

In any of these situations, APS may provide some of your information without your permission.

Please note that you do NOT have a right to know the identity of the person who asked us to check on your safety.  That person’s right to confidentiality is protected by law.

If you feel that any of your rights have violated, please call:  (800) 884-1684.

Your Civil Rights

Under State and Federal law, welfare agencies may not provide you aid, benefits or services that is different from aid provided to others on the basis of:  Race, Color, National Origin (including language) Ethnic Group Identity, Age, Disability (Physical, Mental, and Learning), Religion, Sex, Gender, Identity or Gender Expression, Sexual Orientation, Political Affiliation, Marital Status or Domestic Partnership, or other bases established by law.