In Texas, a number of authorities are required to report suspected child abuse to Child Protective Services (CPS). Since the law imposes stiff penalties for failure to report child abuse injuries or child abandonment in Houston, many people adopt a “rather be safe than sorry” attitude when it comes to notifying the authorities. As a result, many people find themselves the target of an investigation when they have indeed done nothing at all wrong.
When contacted by CPS, it can be tempting for people who are innocent to cooperate with the authorities. Since they feel they have nothing to hide, they may not take an investigation into a child injury claim seriously. They could believe that by talking with an investigator, the matter will be put to rest rather quickly. This can often spell disaster, as overzealous investigators are sometimes more concerned with securing an arrest than they are finding out the truth. An experienced attorney is your best defense in a situation such as this.
Although child abuse and neglect charges are serious, there are some affirmative defenses built into the Texas Penal Code including:
If you are contacted by Child Protective Services, the first thing you should do is contact a defense attorney. Doing so will help preserve your rights and ensure you are not the target of a “witch hunt”, as is so often the case. You’ll also know whether or not an affirmative defense is available in your situation. Seeking legal counsel early can help you resolve the matter quickly, and reduce the odds of child abuse charges impacting your future.
If you are being charged with inflicting injuries on children in Houston, then you will need a criminal defense attorney who will fight to the very end to lower your sentence. Brett A. Podolsky is a lawyer who specializes in child abuse cases. He has also taken the initiative to get certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, which is a difficult feat to accomplish. Brett will examine all the evidence to determine the best way to present your case.
If you are looking for a criminal defense attorney, get a hold of Brett A. Podolsky today at 713-227-0087.
