CONROE, TX — Defiance Press & Publishing is proud to announce the signing of veteran attorney Michael H. Agranoff for his revealing and essential book, “When the State Knocks: A Parent’s Guide to CPS (Child Protective Services).” Drawing on three decades of legal experience defending families against government overreach, Agranoff provides both a stark warning and a practical roadmap for parents navigating the complex and often threatening landscape of Child Protective Services interventions.
“When the State Knocks” exposes the alarming reality many families face when confronted by CPS, demonstrating through compelling real-life cases how ordinary parents—regardless of social standing or community reputation—can suddenly find themselves entangled in a system that can tear families apart based on flimsy evidence, misunderstandings, or bureaucratic inertia. Agranoff reveals how social workers, psychologists, and family court judges wield extraordinary power over family life, often with minimal oversight or accountability.
Beyond critique, the book offers concrete strategies for responding to allegations, navigating psychological evaluations, dealing with court-appointed attorneys, and preserving family unity against overwhelming odds. Agranoff also examines concerning trends that could further erode parental rights, including the possible future licensing of parents—a prospect that would fundamentally transform the relationship between families and the state.
“Michael Agranoff has written what may be the most important book any parent could read in today’s climate of expanding government authority over family life,” said Lisa Woodward, Director of Publishing at Defiance Press. “His unflinching examination of how well-intentioned child protection laws can lead to devastating government overreach resonates deeply with our mission to publish works that defend core American values like family autonomy and individual liberty. This book doesn’t just identify problems—it arms parents with the knowledge they need to protect their families. We’re honored to bring this crucial resource to the public.”
Agranoff is a magna cum laude graduate of the University of Connecticut School of Law who began his legal career in 1989 before specializing in CPS defense. Throughout his 31-year career, he has taken on challenging cases that other attorneys declined, worked to level the playing field for parents facing the state’s resources, and achieved important changes in Connecticut’s system of court-appointed psychological evaluations for CPS cases.
“When the State Knocks: A Parent’s Guide to CPS” is scheduled for release in fall 2025. For more information about the book or to request review copies when available, please contact Lisa Woodward.
About Defiance Press & Publishing
Defiance Press & Publishing amplifies voices who might not otherwise be heard by mainstream America. As a publisher of principled fiction, non-fiction, current events, and children’s literature from outstanding authors, Defiance Press places special emphasis on God, country, liberty, and conservatism to serve the diverse interests of readers through various imprints.
About Michael H. Agranoff
Michael H. Agranoff is an attorney with 31 years of experience defending families in Child Protective Services cases. Based in Ellington, Connecticut, he has dedicated his career to helping parents navigate the complex CPS system and preserve their families. Before entering the legal profession, Agranoff served three years in the U.S. Army and worked as a Programmer/Analyst at an insurance company, bringing analytical skills that would later prove valuable in his legal work.
Throughout his career, Agranoff has consistently challenged CPS overreach, including standing up to practices like unwarranted emergency removals of children and inequitable psychological evaluations. He lives with his wife Harriet and maintains close relationships with his grandchildren, experiences that have only deepened his commitment to protecting families.
Contact Information
Lisa Woodward
Director of Publishing
Defiance Press & Publishing, LLC
2685 S. Loop 336W, Suite B
Conroe, TX 77304
[email protected]
www.DefiancePress.com
