Child Abuse
Child Abuse Attorney – Brett A. Podolsky
Whether you are a parent, teacher or child care provider, an accusation of child abuse can have devastating effects on your future. Child abuse charges can bring a loss of custody, isolation from friends and family, disgrace from peers and the looming fear of a prison sentence.
In addition to physical abuse, the state of Texas classifies the following acts as crimes against children:
- Trafficking
- Kidnapping
- Forced child labor
- Molestation
- Violation of a child custody order
- Neglect
- Physical assault and battery
- Endangerment by exposure to substances
Under Texas law, child abuse covers a wide range of crimes against minors. State law requires all professionals who work closely with children, such as teachers and doctors, to report any suspicions of abuse to the police. In turn, law enforcement officers are required to investigate every report of abuse.
The Consequences of a Guilty Verdict
Accusations of child abuse have far-reaching consequences. Lawmakers in Texas have increased prison sentences and reinforced parole and supervision in order to discourage child abuse. A minor offense usually includes state jail time, while a conviction for a serious crime like sexual assault of a child can result in up to 99 years in prison.
Defending Child Abuse Cases
A child abuse attorney like Brett A. Podolsky will consider the intricate details of a defendant’s case in order to formulate a customized defense on his behalf. Here are some of the possible defenses against child abuse accusations:
- The allegations of abuse are false. False accusations are common in divorce and custody cases because the accuser has something to gain.
- The defendant did not cause the child’s injuries. In some cases, an injury may be attributed to biological factors such as brittle bone disease.
- The accused may argue that a minor injury occurred when he was disciplining his child.
- If a child suffers from an illness, and it is against the parents’ religious beliefs to take the child to a doctor, an exemption of faith may be argued in neglect cases.
- Munchausen Syndrome by proxy, also known as MSbP or MBP) is a mental illness that can cause a caregiver to intentionally harm a child in hopes of receiving sympathy or attention from others. A history of psychological problems usually accompanies this defense.
By employing the proper strategy, it is possible for a defendant to face lesser charges or even avoid a conviction altogether.
Contact a Child Abuse Defense Lawyer
If you have been arrested for child abuse or child endangerment in Houston, get in touch with the Law Office of Brett A. Podolsky. Mr. Podolsky has practiced law for over 15 years. He will listen to you and help you plan an effective defense.
Brett A. Podolsky will offer you a free consultation. Give him a call right now at 713-227-0087.
