Hotline reports are investigated by Emergency Response Workers. These child welfare workers conduct an investigation. If this investigation produces no evidence of abuse or neglect, the case is closed, but the report is entered on a statewide database.

If subsequent reports are received, the information from the first incident will affect the urgency of the case. DHS child welfare workers make every effort to keep children safely with their families, and to provide resources to the family that will help strengthen and stabilize the home. If the Emergency Response Worker believes the child is in no immediate danger but that the family is at risk and requires supportive services, they will be offered the services of Family Preservation.

Children who are found to be unsafe in their homes are removed and placed in the home of a relative, in a licensed foster home or in a setting that meets the special needs of a child. A petition is filed with San Francisco Juvenile Court to detain the child temporarily. The Court may dismiss the case and return the child to the family, or support the allegations of the petition and maintain the child in placement. In this case, longer-term arrangements are made for the child and a Case Plan is established outlining the steps a parent must take to be reunited with the child.