If a parent or other person entitled to possession does not take possession of the child before the ____ day after the date the child is delivered to the department, the department shall proceed under this chapter as if the law enforcement officer took possession of the child

• A. Sixth day
• B. First day
• C. Fourth day
• D. Seventh day

Answer: (A)

The key idea here is that a specific deadline triggers the department’s authority to act. When a child is delivered to the department, there is a fixed period for the parent or someone entitled to possession to claim the child. If the child isn’t claimed by this deadline—six days after delivery—the department proceeds under the applicable chapter as if a law enforcement officer had taken possession. This creates a clear, enforceable moment to protect the child and move forward with custody or protective actions.

The other day options don’t fit because they don’t match this statutory trigger. A sooner deadline would rush the process, and a later deadline would delay necessary protective steps. Six days provides the appropriate balance to safeguard the child while respecting legal procedures.