Child Abuse

In the state of Florida, child abuse is a serious crime that is prosecuted aggressively and can result in severe punishment. Child abuse is a form of domestic violence that can be committed by a relative, caretaker, or complete stranger. Like most violent crimes, under the law there are different degrees of child abuse for which an offender can be charged. If you are facing child abuse charges, consider contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately to help you with your case.

Child abuse is classified under Florida law as a violent crime, charged minimally as a third degree felony. Child abuse may include inflicting physical harm upon a child or behaving threateningly towards a child in a way that causes emotional and psychological harm. If extensive injury is inflicted on a child, the abuser may be charged with aggravated child abuse. Aggravated child abuse is a first degree felony charge that results if the offender tortures, cages, maliciously punishes, disfigures, disables, or otherwise causes extensive bodily harm to a child.

In extreme circumstances in which the defendant kills or inflicts life-ending injuries upon a child, he or she may be charged with a capital felony. A capital felony conviction in Florida is punishable by the death penalty. While a death penalty conviction can be appealed, the offender will at the very least serve the remainder of his or her life in prison if convicted.

Child abuse cases carry a particularly emotional aspect that can be difficult for people to separate from the legal facts of the case. If you have been charged with child abuse, you will likely face a highly aggressive prosecution. It is therefore important for you to find a lawyer who can help to protect your legal rights in court and fight for a fair hearing.

Contact Us

For sound legal advice and assistance with your child abuse case, please contact an experienced West Palm Beach criminal attorney from Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. today at 561-353-2800.