Child Abuse Lawyer in Indiana
Child abuse of any kind is a grave charge. Indiana state law assigns serious penalties to anyone who is convicted of a form of child abuse. If you’re facing this type of charge, it’s important to get an experienced child abuse or child neglect attorney who can help you understand the charges, explore possible defenses, and protect your rights.
In the United States, anyone accused of a crime is considered innocent until proven guilty and has the right to counsel. When you’re facing serious charges that can end in felony convictions, you need to make sure you understand what you’re up against and have an experienced attorney at your side.
How Is Child Abuse Reported?
By law, anyone who believes that a child is a victim of abuse or neglect is required to report this to law enforcement or child welfare services. These reports do not have to be substantiated. The suspicion of child abuse or neglect is sufficient. Anyone involved in the reporting or investigation of child abuse is immune from civil or criminal penalties unless acting in bad faith. There are penalties for failure to report suspected child abuse or neglect.
We've Recovered Billions for Clients
-
$15 Million Semi-Truck Accident
-
$8.5 Million Semi-Truck Accident
-
$4 Million Steel Mill Explosion
-
$3.55 Million Injured Tradesmen/Steelworker
-
$3 Million Prescription Medical Defect
-
$2.5 Million Amputation in Illinois
-
Everyone that I have spoken with at Alvarez has been polite, positive, & professional. These interactions have inspired my confidence in this firm. It’s reassuring when you’re not well to have a team like this on your side. My attorney, Steven Alvarez a great communicator, very helpful, and kind. He has already been a huge help. I’m grateful I have Alvarez Law working on my behalf.- Lilly P.
-
Very pleased with this law firm Brandon has kept me updated throughout my case. Brandon and Nicole are Rock Star's. I would definitely encourage anyone to use this law firm. If you want a Rock Star lawyer then Brandon Morford at Alvarez Law that's the guy you need.- James C.
-
- Hailey S.
Brandon was great at getting back to me and answering all of my questions. It was nice having someone that would answer 24-7 and Attorney Alvarez got me a great resolution on my case.
-
The office staff was always polite answering the phones. The paralegals are always there to answer my questions through email or by phone calls it may have taken time to get back to me but just had to be patient. The legal secretary called to go over and make sure I understood what and how it was going to be finalized. Attorney Steve Alvarez not settling and making sure he went the extra mile for me.- Brandy F.
-
My experience with the Alvarez Law office was outstanding. They took my case and completed it in a timely manner. Ms. Theresa was outstanding with my case and made sure that I had everything I needed. If anyone needs a law firm that would fight for you like no other this is the Law firm for you. Thank you Anna Gallo- Anna G.
-
The Alvarez Law Office helped me with a personal injury case and did a superb job. Everyone from the office staff to Walter Alvarez are very personable and friendly. My experience was great. Shout out to Steven Alvarez for a great job! Thank you so much!- Marci W.
-
The Alvarez Law Office helped me settle a workers compensation case. I am very pleased with the results thus far! Brandon along with the paralegal staff have been very professional and friendly. If you are in need of legal representation, consider Alvarez Law Office. Thank you so much!- Laura J.
-
Got me more money back than I expected for my injuries! Thanks Alvarez law firm. You guys are awesome!!!- Jerry G.
-
I was in an awful wreck in January and I contacted Mr. Alvarez. He has been such a great attorney but an even better friend! From checking up on me and making time for calls with both of our busy schedules. I can honestly say in an awful circumstance Steve Alvarez did his absolute best at all times. I Highly recommend this attorney to anyone!!! Thank you- Collin S.
-
I recommend the Alvarez Law Office; Friendly, helpful, and needful advice and also very knowledgeable regarding workman's comp claims. I appreciated their professional representation and skill.- Faith F.
-
The whole entire staff IS GREAT from the front desk to the top. Very nice very friendly honest and reliable!- Joseph L.
-
This is a firm you want on your side. They did an amazing job on my car accident case. They really are 24-7. Brandon answered all my questions promptly even on the weekends. Steven got me an amazing settlement. He is the man! He even got my medicals lowered. This is a powerhouse lawyer you want on your side.- Moses V.
What Charges Are Associated With Child Abuse?
Child abuse in any form is a serious charge. If you or someone you know has been accused of child abuse, it’s important to understand what this means.
-
Neglect of a Dependent
If you’re charged with neglect of a dependent, you’re facing a Level 6 felony. This is punishable with imprisonment for anywhere from six months to two-and-a-half years and a fine of up to $10,000. If the offender has a previous conviction under this statute, the offense is elevated to a Level 5 felony. Neglect occurs if a child:
- Is put in a situation that endangers their life or health.
- Is deprived of education as required by the law.
- Is abandoned.
- Is cruelly confined.
- Is deprived of necessary support.
-
Nonsupport of a Dependent
If you fail to provide support for a dependent child either knowingly or intentionally, you can be charged with a Level 6 felony. Support includes food, shelter, clothing, and medical care. This is a Level 5 felony if you have a previous conviction under this charge.
You may have a valid defense against this charge if the child has abandoned the home of the family without the consent of their parents or an order of a court. However, if the child left the home due to abuse, this is not a defense.
-
Battery of Children
Battery occurs when any person knowingly touches another in a rude, insolent, or angry manner. A simple battery is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and no more than 180 days in jail. If the battery results in bodily injury, it becomes a Class A misdemeanor punishable with a fine of up to $1,000 and no more than one year in jail.
When the battery occurs against a child, the severity of the crime increases significantly. If the battery is committed by someone who is at least 18 years of age against someone who is less than 14 years of age, it becomes a Level 3 felony. This is punished with a fixed prison term between six and 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000. If the battery results in death, it’s a Level 2 felony with a prison term between one and 30 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
If the case is considered an aggravated battery, the charges are more severe. Aggravated battery occurs when the individual intentionally or knowingly inflicts injury that creates:
- Substantial risk of death.
- Loss of a fetus.
- Serious permanent disfigurement.
- Impairment or protracted loss of the function of an organ or part of the body.
Aggravated battery is typically a Level 3 felony, but it becomes a Level 1 felony if it results in death and is committed by a person at least 18 years of age against someone less than 14 years of age. This is punishable by 20 to 50 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Where Can I Get More Information About Indiana Child Abuse Laws?
Within Indiana Code, Title 35, Article 46, Chapter 1, you can find more information about child abuse statues.
- Definitions: Section 35-46-1-1.
- Neglect of a Dependent: Section 35-46-1-4.
- Nonsupport of a Dependent Child: Section 35-46-1-5.
- Reckless Supervision: Section 35-46-1-4.1.
- Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor: Section 35-46-1-8.
- Tobacco or Electronic Cigarettes and Minors: Section 35-46-1-10.
If you’re facing charges associated with child abuse, contact our lawyers at Alvarez Law Office in Crown Point, Indiana. We can provide you with the best defense possible and will work tirelessly on your behalf to protect your rights. Our law firm has defended the accused since 1974 and can put that experience to work for you.
