Orange County Child Abuse Defense Attorney

If you've been accused of child abuse, your future and your reputation are on the line. This is one of the most serious forms of domestic violence for which a defendant may face charges, particularly because the alleged victim is a child. Judges, law enforcement, prosecutors and juries are likely to be far more aggressive and less lenient in cases involving child abuse rather than cases involving other types of abuse or violence.

Child abuse as a whole may involve sexual abuse, emotional abuse, or physical abuse. California penal code section 273d addresses physical abuse of a child. According to this law, physical child abuse may be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the particular circumstances of the case.

False Accusations of Child Abuse

Once law enforcement is called to the scene, an arrest will most likely be made. Being accused of child abuse is a serious situation, but also one that may be misinterpreted rather easily. At times, false accusations may be made against a parent or family member in an attempt to win custody of a child or during a divorce. Or, an accident or even an act of self defense may result in child abuse allegations, an arrest, and then criminal charges. Even if the child understands that it was an accident, or if your spouse and child do not want to press charges, it will be up to the District Attorney to determine whether to follow through with a case.

Regardless of the particular child abuse charges you may be facing, we will listen. When you consult an Orange County child abuse lawyer at the Law Offices of Fred Thiagarajah, you will find that we will take the time to talk to you about what has happened. We will answer your questions and try to address your concerns as best we can in order to determine exactly how we can help you.

For a free consultation regarding your charges, contact an Orange County child abuse defense attorney at our firm today.