If a parent has been reported to the DCFS for abuse or neglect, or some other event or series of events have taken place within the home, potentially putting the child at risk, the child will most likely be placed into protective custody and the parent or guardian will be looking at a lengthy court process. The first part of this court process is called a Shelter Care Hearing (sometimes used interchangeably with temporary custody hearing, but not in all cases), and in Illinois must occur within 48 hours after the child is brought into protective custody by DCFS.