Child Abuse & Neglect Defense Attorney in Tavares, FL

If you have been accused of child abuse and/or neglect, it is critical to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Tavares. Today, parents can hardly discipline their children at all without the worry of being reported to authorities. In Florida, laws regarding what may be construed by some as child abuse are extremely strict. Those suspected of abusing or neglecting a child may be arrested and vigorously prosecuted by the state. At Adams, Luka, & Benton, our experienced and highly qualified child abuse lawyers are capable and ready to provide you with the legal guidance and representation essential to the best possible result.

You may not be aware of it, but when anyone alleges that you have physically, sexually, or even emotionally abused a child or neglected a child you may face not only felony criminal charges, but loss of your parental rights. Many people today do not believe in discipline as we knew it several decades ago; even spanking can result in your life being turned upside down. In some cases, children are actually abused or neglected because parents may have issues such as drug or alcohol addiction. Under these circumstances, obtaining treatment for addiction issues is much preferred over criminal prosecution.

What exactly is child abuse? A parent or other guardian may be accused of child abuse if physical or mental injury is inflicted upon a child intentionally, or you perform an action that as a reasonable person would expect could result in mental or physical arm or injury. Additionally, you may be accused of child abuse if you encourage someone else to commit an act that you know within reason could physically or mentally injure a child, or does result in injury.

Child neglect is the omission or failure of a caregiver to maintain a child's physical and mental health by providing care, services, and supervision; this may involve not providing a child with clothing, food, medication, shelter, nutrition, supervision, or other things that are vital to a child's well-being. In addition, you could be arrested for child neglect should you not make a concerted effort to protect a child from this type of neglect inflicted by someone else..

The penalties an individual may face if convicted of child abuse or neglect depend on certain factors including the severity of the crime. For example, if you are found guilty of third-degree child abuse you may face a fine of $5,000, up to five years in prison, and/or probation. First-degree child abuse is the more serious offense of aggravated child abuse, and may result in a $15,000 fine along with up to 30 years in prison.

A conviction on child neglect charges may leave the accused facing a $5,000 fine, five years in prison, or probation.

The punishment for abusing or neglecting a child is serious. You may have been wrongly accused, or there may be other circumstances or facts that need to be investigated. Regardless of the circumstances, you must have a child abuse & neglect defense lawyer in Tavares who will fight on your behalf and provide the legal support essential to a good outcome. Contact Adams, Luka, & Benton now for a free consultation at 407-872-0307.