I don't know NY law specifically, but I do practice family law and the scenes involving CPS were surprisingly accurate. Caseworkers absolutely have the right to speak to children without parental consent. Additionally, imminent risk is a highly subjective standard and judges oftentimes sign off on emergency removals based on allegations only. Mental health diagnoses with a question as to current treatment are often cited as contributing factors in removing children from parents (usually combined with other concerns). it is also accurate that the children would not be brought to their home to gather belongings. Parents would be asked to provide them directly to the caseworker or CPS would be ordered to provide vouchers to get items. The one thing that didn't ring true was that Carrie would have been granted the ability to visit/speak with Franny, but this could easily take anywhere from a few days to a week to set up.
