For a person charged with child abuse, the stakes are extremely high. Being convicted of this could mean the loss of your children and for certain professionals the loss of your livelihood. These charges also carry significant penalties that can result is significant loss of a person’s freedom. A compassionate attorney is needed to listen to all of the facts and provide their client with the best representation possible.
Because of the complexity of these cases, it is vital to contact an attorney with who has successfully handling these cases. These charges carry significant emotional impact so it can be easy for a jury to lose sight of the facts and convict a person solely based on emotion. An attorney needs to hold the state to meet its burden of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Because these laws can be broad, a person may be charged with child abuse in addition to other charges. For instance, if a person is charged with manufacturing a controlled substance in a home with child’s presence, they may be charged with child abuse as an additional charge. These can make the cases very complex and necessitates the retention of an attorney who knows how to litigate them. A keen eye for detail is needed to be certain all charges are being defended against.
Any type of cruelty or neglect suffered by a child, including mental abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, exploitation, or failure to provide care are all considered forms of child abuse. Any type of conduct that negatively impacts the well-being of the child can be deemed child abuse. It is important to keep in mind that the well-being of a child is of paramount importance to society and to the court.
Child caregivers, teachers, and medical professionals must report suspected child abuse. Because they are in a unique position to help the child, they are required by law to report suspected abuse to authorities. Depending on the severity of the charges, you may face prison or jail time if these caregivers find abuse in the home. If convicted of child abuse, you may be facing a class 4 felony, which may carry a prison term of up to 10 years in prison and up to a $100,000 fine.
At The Law Offices of Patrick N. Anderson, we understand that parents can make mistakes or lose their temper. We also understand that even an accusation of child abuse can be very stressful and difficult. People will look at you differently even if you are not convicted of these crimes. We will work to clear your good name, fighting for your rights and making sure that you can keep your kids in your home.