Child Abuse

If a child is being abused, neglected, threatened, or otherwise endangered at home or in another environment, it is important to take immediate action to stop the abuse. If you suspect abuse of your child by your spouse, the child's other legal guardian, or another adult figure, you need to take steps to rectify the situation by pursuing legal help. In many cases of child abuse, the state will intervene and remove the child from the abusive environment until the child's guardian can prove that the situation has been rectified.

What Constitutes Abuse and Neglect?

The state may intervene if a child is in an abusive or neglectful situation. These situations can include:

• The child is abused, abandoned, or mistreated by a parent or legal guardian.
• A parent does not attempt to stop another parent, guardian, or person from abusing the child.
• The child's home environment is considered dangerous by the court.
• The child lacks proper medical care or access to education.
• The child is homeless.
• The child's parent or guardian has no control over the child or the child has run away from home.

In a child abuse case, the child is temporarily removed from the parent's home and assigned a legal representative by the state. The parent or guardian who has temporarily lost custody of the child also has the option to hire legal help to defend his or her case and attempt to prove that the environment is safe and healthy for the child. During the time of the legal proceedings, the child might remain with a relative, another legal parent or guardian, or in foster care.

Contact Us

If you suspect the abuse of your child, the Raleigh divorce lawyers can help you argue your case in court and fight to defend the best interests of your child. Contact the offices of Marshall & Taylor, P.C. today at 919-833-1040.