Boca Raton Child Abuse Lawyer

A child abuse charge can turn your life upside down in an instant. When emotions are running high, a single mistake or lapse in judgment can leave you facing accusations that are not reflective of your character or your relationship with your children.

When you are facing allegations of child abuse, the first step you should take is to contact a knowledgeable Boca Raton child abuse lawyer from Rossen Law Firm. The earlier our expert domestic violence attorneys can get on your case, the better. Our team at Rossen Law Firm can speak to law enforcement, make sure that you are not tricked into giving a statement, and potentially even prevent an arrest. Don’t let the justice system intimidate you. We have years of experience handling cases like yours, and we will fight for your rights and your freedom.

Understanding Child Abuse Charges

Any person who is responsible for the well-being of a child (someone under 18 years old) is subject to the child abuse laws laid out under Florida Statutes § 827.03 (2019). This charge can take three forms, including:

• Intentionally inflicting physical or mental injury upon a child
• Committing an intentional act that could reasonably be expected to result in physical or mental injury to the child
• Actively encouraging another person to commit an act that resulted in or could reasonably have been expected to result in physical or mental injury to the child

An expert Boca Raton lawyer can provide more clarification on the state laws regarding child abuse and advise on whether a particular situation could constitute abuse under the law.

What Happens After Child Abuse is Reported in Boca Raton?

Instances of child abuse are often reported by a teacher or therapist. When abuse happens in the school setting, a school resource officer will examine the child and call for detectives to come interview the child and take them for a medical evaluation. Detectives will purposefully not involve parents during this process, to avoid influencing the child in any way.

Once detectives interview and evaluate the child, they will speak with parents, search for evidence of abuse, and involve the Department of Children and Families. Law enforcement will often do whatever they can to get parents to talk, which is why it is crucial to work with a knowledgeable local child abuse attorney from Rossen Law Firm who can prevent parents from misspeaking or accidentally providing incriminating information.

What Are the Criminal Consequences of a Child Abuse Charge?

Child abuse charges come with both short-term and long-term criminal consequences. Right off the bat, you will be taken to jail and will have to post bond. Often, the conditions of release of bond will include wearing an ankle monitor and having zero contact with the child, which can be detrimental for everyone involved.

There is also a Department of Children and Family Services (DCF) investigation that runs separately from criminal court proceedings. The DCF may require parenting classes and certain other obligations for a parent to even have a chance to reunify with their child. The DCF might even go a step further and file a delinquency petition in court to terminate parental rights. Having a top Boca Raton child abuse attorney on your side these proceedings can make all the difference in how your case turns out.

Long-Term Effects of Child Abuse Charges

Child abuse is a felony charge in Boca Raton. Regular child abuse charges carry a maximum sentence of five years, while aggravated child abuse carries up to 30 years behind bars. Even pleading guilty and getting probation would disqualify someone from certain jobs or make it nearly impossible to find housing. Because the consequences of a child abuse conviction are so severe, it is absolutely essential to work with an expert lawyer to build your defense.

Get in Touch with a Boca Raton Child Abuse Attorney Right Away

If you are facing child abuse accusations, you have come to the right place. At Rossen Law Firm, we have a judgment-free approach and will work tirelessly to get your life back on track. One mistake does not have to derail your life and your relationships.

Contact our office as soon as possible if you are dealing with allegations of child abuse. Our Boca Raton child abuse lawyers will listen to your story and help you form the best course of action to tackle your defense head-on. Schedule your free strategy session today to get started.