A child abuse case can be in a 'pending' status for what maximum duration?

• A. 30 days
• B. 60 days
• C. 90 days
• D. 120 days

Answer: (C)

In child protective investigations, there is a built-in time frame for how long a case can stay in pending while facts are gathered and safety is assessed. The maximum is ninety days because it provides enough time to interview involved parties, review records, consult with other professionals, and determine whether abuse or neglect has occurred and what steps are needed to protect the child. Pushing beyond this window would risk delaying crucial protective actions, while ninety days is long enough to conduct the essential assessment in a defensible, timely manner. After that period, the case should be dispositioned or escalated to the next appropriate action. Extensions can be considered in exceptional circumstances, but the standard ceiling is ninety days.