Under state law, child neglect refers to any action or inaction that endangers a minor child’s life, physical or mental health, or safety. The broad scope of this definition enables prosecutors to bring child neglect charges in a variety of different circumstances.
The consequences of a child neglect conviction are often severe. If you are facing child neglect charges in Greenville, turn to Chris Jones Law for seasoned legal representation and defense. As a skilled child neglect defense attorney, Christopher L. Jones strives to protect his client’s rights and freedoms. Reach out today to schedule your initial consultation.
How Child Neglect Charges Originate
Child endangerment cases in Greenville begin with a report of suspected neglect to the state’s Department of Social Services. Social workers, doctors, and educators are required to report suspected abuse or neglect under state law, and neighbors and acquaintances are encouraged to do the same. The Department investigates reports to determine whether they can substantiate the charges.
What Are Examples of Actionable Child Neglect?
The state can bring child neglect charges against anyone who:
- Fails to provide proper shelter, sufficient nourishment, or necessary supervision to a minor child
- Places a child in an inordinately dangerous situation
- Physically or emotionally abuses or sexually exploits a child
- Abandons a child, even temporarily
- Does not enroll a child in school or provide adequate education
Many of these situations are subject to interpretation, and a prosecutor must prove neglect beyond a reasonable doubt to obtain a conviction. A lawyer with experience in Greenville could help you craft a defense against child neglect charges to raise sufficient doubts in a prosecutor’s case and avoid harsh penalties.
Persons Who May Be Liable for Child Neglect
The state can accuse someone of child neglect if they have a legal responsibility to provide care for a child, whether they are a child’s natural or adoptive parent, a stepparent, or a legal guardian. Additionally, accused individuals must have the capacity to care for the child, and the child cannot be older than 18.
Questions regarding childcare responsibility and liability might arise in blended or extended family arrangements where a minor child is living with relatives or other caregivers. A Greenville prosecutor’s ability to prove a person’s liability for care is a critical component of child neglect charges.
Child Neglect Charges Are Common When Neglect Is Intentional
Greenville prosecutors are more likely to charge an individual with child neglect if there is intentional abandonment of the child or physical or mental abuse. If the basis for charges is intent, the prosecutor must prove that the caregiver consciously ignored or injured the child’s health and welfare. Evidence of intent may include:
- Physical injuries
- Testimony from witnesses
- Changes in the child’s behavioral patterns
- Reports from physicians and social workers
An experienced child neglect defense attorney could defend against neglect charges by raising questions about the prosecutor’s proof of intent. If a prosecutor fails to prove intent, the state might remain involved in the case, initiating monitoring by the Department of Social Services. Monitoring is a preferred alternative to felony convictions and any consequential prison sentences and fines.
Contact an Experienced Greenville Attorney To Defend Against Child Neglect Charges
Greenville child neglect charges are a serious matter that should not be ignored or minimized. If accused, you may be subject to felony charges, fines, and other long-term adverse consequences. If you are the subject of a child neglect investigation by the state’s Department of Social Services or you are facing neglect charges, contact Chris Jones Law today for vigorous representation and defense.
