In Wisconsin, if a child is believed by the state to be in need of protection or services, a CHIPS (Child in Need of Protection and/or Services) action may be initiated. CHIPS actions may involve cases of cases of alleged child neglect and/or child abuse. If your child has been removed by the state and you believe your family does not have any of the problems such as neglect that makes it okay for the state to get involved, you may ask for a hearing to tell the judge your side of the story. The judge may decide your child is not in danger and send your child home or may decide he or she is still in danger and tell you what you must do, and what the state agency must do to help you, in order for to regain custody. Even though the state has taken temporary custody of your child, remember you are still the legal parent. You can only lose your parental rights if you sign a surrender or the court terminates your rights involuntarily. During this process, it is critical that parents follow all rules related to communication with their children and attend all related hearings; failure to do so may result in the start of a Termination of Parental Rights (TPR) action.