Child abuse and neglect occurs in all parts of the world, all cultures and within all socio-economic brackets. Child abuse can be defined as any abusive treatment of a minor child including sexual abuse, physical abuse and emotional abuse. In some situations neglect, which is the failure of the parent or guardian to meet the basic needs of the child regarding food, clothing, shelter and emotional support can also be included in felony criminal charges. Child abuse and neglect is often a result of a third party report and may be extremely difficult to prove.
Child Abuse and Neglect Penalties
In child abuse and neglect charges the children themselves, the victims of the crime, are not required to appear in court. Expert witnesses and forensic examiners will typically speak for the children in the court setting. Most courts impose strict penalties on those found guilty of child abuse or neglect, however education of the parents or guardians is often a feature of the sentence.
Possible Penalties
- Jail time
- Probation and electronic monitoring
- Parole
- Lifetime requirement to resister as a child sexual offender with sexual abuse charges
- Mandatory anger management classes or parenting classes
- Fines and court costs
- Termination of parental rights
- Removal of the children from the home until court ordered programs are completed
- Supervised access with the children or child
Child Abuse and Neglect Sentencing
Sentencing for child abuse and neglect cases is very difficult for all involved. Often the court cases are very highly publicized, leading to a social stigma for the family even if the charges are dropped or the results of the trial are a not guilty verdict. Since an attorney may be able to have the charges reduced to allow the individuals to participate in probation and parenting training, it is essential to get legal help immediately.
Hiring An Attorney For Child Abuse/Neglect
Many people mistakenly avoid getting an attorney for these types of cases until just before court. It is important to get a criminal defense attorney with experience in defending child abuse/neglect cases in place as soon as possible after the charges. This is because there are so many ways in which individuals can actually sabotage their own defense in their attempts to prove their innocence. Working with an attorney will prevent these mistakes that can make the difference in a guilty verdict and getting the case dismissed.
- If you have been charged with Child Abuse, Submit Your Case for a Free Review from a skilled Criminal Defense Attorney.
