Child abuse accusations can lead to long, painful, and emotionally-charged cases. But often these accusations stem from misunderstandings, exaggerations, or accidents.
As parents ourselves, our team at Smith Lehman understands the emotional toll cases like these can take on your family. And that’s why we’re here to help you through it, with a dedicated and compassionate defense strategy.
Child abuse accusations can lead to long, painful, and emotionally-charged cases. But often these accusations stem from misunderstandings, exaggerations, or accidents.
As parents ourselves, our team at Smith Blythe understands the emotional toll cases like these can take on your family. And that’s why we’re here to help you through it, with a dedicated and compassionate defense strategy.
In Michigan, child abuse is defined as any type of physical or mental harm to a child as a result of:
While parents do, of course, have the right to discipline their child(ren), they must do so within the confines of the law. For this reason, corporal punishment, such as spanking, can easily lead to a child abuse charge.
In Michigan, the law requires that anyone who comes into contact with the child (teacher, doctor, religious leader, club instructor) and suspects abuse must report it to the proper authorities. Known as mandatory reporters, these accusers can face criminal charges themselves if they fail to report their suspicions.
The State of Michigan classifies child abuse into four different degrees, with various punishments:
Child abuse allegations often stem from misinterpreted or misrepresented medical evidence. Sometimes, a mandatory reporter misunderstands a situation and reports without giving the parents an opportunity to explain. And sometimes an injury is simply the result of an accident, as opposed to physical abuse.
There are several things that can happen if you or your spouse has been accused of child abuse.
Being accused of child abuse or neglect is as terrifying as it is heart-breaking. But there is hope. At Smith Lehman, we have over twenty five years of combined experience fighting for the rights and best interests of our clients. From carefully reviewing police and child protective services reports, to consulting with doctors and other experts, we will do everything in our power to defend you against any child abuse accusation. Give us a call today at 248-636-2595.
Being accused of child abuse or neglect is as terrifying as it is heart-breaking. But there is hope. At Smith Lehman, we have over twenty five years of combined experience fighting for the rights and best interests of our clients. From carefully reviewing police and child protective services reports, to consulting with doctors and other experts, we will do everything in our power to defend you against any child abuse accusation. Give us a call today at 248-636-2595.
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