Child Abuse: Charges & Penalties

Any violence or harm directed at a child is defined as child abuse. This can range from sexual abuse to child endangerment, neglect to physical violence and can originate from a parent or other caregiver. In some states, certain people can be punished for failing to report suspected cases of child abuse. For example, if a school teacher or nurse or doctor noticed that something was amiss, they are legally obligated to report that to authorities.

In California, any non-accidental harm towards a child is defined as child abuse if the child is under the age of eighteen. There are certain exemptions to this law, such as reasonable force, medical decisions, and religion. Penalties vary based on the seriousness of the case, but could be prosecuted as child battery.

If you were accused of child abuse, please waste no time in contacting a Los Angeles criminal attorney from our firm. We could help defend you against such allegations and prevent you from being convicted. Contact a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer from our firm to learn more.