Indianapolis Child Abuse Lawyer
Parents are supposed to love their children and adequately provide for their physical and emotional needs. As parents raise and discipline their children, there are laws in place to prevent abuse and neglect.
Under Indiana law, it is illegal to physically, emotionally, or sexually abuse minors. It’s considered child abuse if a child’s physical or mental condition is seriously endangered or impaired due to an injury caused by the parent or as a result of the neglect or refusal of the child’s parent to provide the child with basic necessities. It’s also child abuse if a parent forces their child to engage in prostitution or other sexually explicit acts.
If someone suspects child abuse, they are obligated to report it under state law, so it’s possible for a parent to be wrongfully accused. Indiana and other states have laws that designate certain people, such as medical professionals and teachers, as mandatory reporters of suspected child abuse or neglect. However, anyone who suspects that a child is being abused or neglected has a duty to report. Those who suspect child abuse or neglect can call the Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-800-5556. Failure to report is a crime classified as a class B misdemeanor.
Child abuse is a serious issue in Indiana. If you are facing accusations, Rigney Law LLC can help you maintain custody of your child. Contact our Indianapolis child abuse lawyer today to see how we can help.
How You Could Lose Your Parental Rights
There are several actions that signal abuse or neglect and could cause you to lose custody of your child:
- Physical abuse of the child
- Sexual abuse of the child
- Neglect of the child
- Failure to support the child
Neglect of a Dependent
Neglect of a dependent is considered a Level 6 felony. It occurs when a person who is in charge of caring for a dependent knowingly:
- Puts the dependent in a situation that endangers their health
- Abandons the dependent
- Places the dependent in cruel confinement
- Deprives the dependent of an education
Related to this is a crime called nonsupport of a dependent child. This is also considered a Level 6 felony. It occurs when a person knowingly fails to provide support to their dependent child.
While a Level 6 felony is the lowest level of felony, it is still severe. The jail sentence can range from six months to 2 ½ years. You can also be fined up to $10,000.
Contact Rigney Law LLC Today
As a parent, you need to protect your children and yourself. If the Department of Child Services (DCS) is investigating you for child abuse or neglect, you have the right to seek legal help.
The team at Rigney Law LLC will work hard to keep your family together. Let us fight for your legal rights. Schedule a consultation with our Indianapolis child abuse lawyer by calling (317) 623-0989 or filling out the online form.
