Child Abuse and How Ronald S. Chapman Can Help

What Constitutes a Child Abuse Charge?

Child abuse is defined as a willful or threatened act resulting in physical, mental or sexual injury causing or likely to cause impairment of physical, mental or emotional health or neglect. Florida’s child abuse laws fall within the penal code. A child is someone defined as an unmarried person under the age of 18. There does not need to be a relation between the child and the defendant accused of child abuse.

Mandatory Reporters

First and foremost, there are professions where the adults are mandatory reporters of child abuse. Physicians, teachers, social workers, mental health professionals, law enforcement workers and judges who have reasonable cause to suspect neglect, abuse or abandonment are required to report their suspicions to the Department of Children and Family Services. Finally, those who fail to report can be charged with a 1st-degree misdemeanor and those who falsely report can be charged with a 3rd-degree felony.

Child Abuse and Florida Law

The Florida Statutes define three offenses against children:

Child abuse - willful or threatened act resulting in physical, mental or sexual injury causing or likely to cause impairment of physical, mental or emotional health or neglect.

• Child neglect - not meeting a child's basic needs, including the failure to provide adequate health care, supervision, clothing, nutrition, housing as well as their physical, emotional, social, educational and safety needs.
• Aggravated child abuse - torturing, cruelly punishing or caging a child or abuse that causes a permanent disability or disfigurement.

Child Abuse Sentences

Firstly, child abuse punishments can range from a third-degree felony with up to five years in prison for a second-degree felony with up to 15 years in prison. Additionally, charges vary depending on prior criminal history and the circumstances of the abuse. Please note that if you are charged with abuse, your child may be placed in foster care or with a relative during the trial since your custody rights can be removed by the court. Finally, if found guilty, your child may not be returned at all.

Ronald S. Chapman

Lastly, child abuse is a very serious crime to be charged with. It is important to defend yourself with the help of a knowledgeable defense attorney. In conclusion, Ronald S. Chapman can help you learn your options for fighting a wrongful accusation and will represent you through the entire process.

Defense Attorney West Palm Beach

Ronald Chapman practices criminal defense in both State and Federal Courts within the State of Florida. Since 1990, Mr. Chapman has been representing people accused of committing various types of crimes. If you are facing criminal charges in Florida, Ronald Chapman can help.

Schedule your FREE Consultation! Call (561) 832-4348 or visit his website.

Visit us at https://www.justiceflorida.com/ You can also connect with the West Palm Beach Criminal Defense Office online today! Ronald Chapman, an experienced criminal defense lawyer, dedicated to defending your rights. Contact him today to begin to discuss your case.

Ronald S. Chapman, P.A.
400 Clematis Street, Suite 206
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
561-832-4348

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