Being accused of abusing or neglecting a child is every parent’s worst nightmare. Charges of this nature will not only effect your relationship with your child, but can also impact you standing in the community, ability to find employment, and strain relationships with you family and friends. It is by far one of the most stressful events that can occur in your life.

Child Neglect

Child neglect is defined as:

• Failing to supply your child with food, shelter, clothing, education, medical or mental health care, or proper supervision; or
• Failing to protect the child from conditions or actions that would endanger them; or
• Exposing a child to certain drugs during pregnancy; or
• Causing emotional harm to the child.

Child neglect can be charged as either a gross misdemeanor or a felony. What determines how a charge is filed is the level of harm done to the child. If you are charged with a gross misdemeanor the maximum possible sentence is 1 year imprisonment and up to a $3000 fine. If you are charged with a felony the maximum possible penalty is up to 5 years imprisonment and up to a $10,000 fine.

Child Abuse

Child neglect fall into three broad categories:

• Physical – Hurting a child by hitting, kicking, burning, or shaking; or
• Emotional – Threatening a child with harm or abandonment; or
• Sexual abuse – Sexual behavior with a child, including physical contact, exhibitionism, photographs, and prostitution.

Child abuse can be charged as either a gross misdemeanor or a felony. The punishments will vary depending upon the actual charge and level of harm done to the child. The potential punishments for child abuse can range from 1 year in jail and up to a $3,000 all the way up to 30 years in prison and up to a $40,000 fine.

What to Do

If you have been charged with either child neglect or child abuse contact the experienced attorneys of Ascheman Law today.

Why should you call us?

With children involved it is essential that you protect your name and reputation. It’s important to consult with a criminal defense attorney to understand the charges, your rights, and protect your future. There are many excellent reasons to contact Ascheman Law for a free consultation, here are a few:

• It’s free, you have nothing to lose;
• We can answer your questions;
• It’s confidential, we are bound by a code of ethics not to talk about your case;
• No strings. Yes, we would like to represent you, but you are in no way required to hire us;
• We want to help, it’s why we do what we do; and
• It may change your life.