Child Neglect and Child Cruelty

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Child Abuse Defence Solicitors

If you are facing allegations of child abuse, child neglect or child cruelty, it is important that you seek expert legal representation from the outset to ensure you are represented and your legal rights are upheld.

Our child abuse defence solicitors provide a first-class service, defending clients across all types of cases. We will advise you of your legal rights and the options available to you, providing guidance through the entire legal process, including representation in court.

Being accused of a crime such as child abuse is very serious for all involved, which is why it is vital that you approach an expert criminal defence solicitor at the earliest possible opportunity. By doing so, you can increase your chances of successfully defending yourself.

To speak to a criminal defence solicitor about child cruelty allegations made against you, call us today on 0345 872 6666. Alternatively, request a call back by filling in our online enquiry form.

How JMW Can Help

We provide a bespoke service for discerning clients who require the best legal support for the most challenging cases. As a full-service law firm, we can also provide expert legal advice in relation to any linked family proceedings. We guarantee support throughout the entire process, which is vital when it comes to sensitive topics such as:

  • Indecent images
  • Child cruelty or neglect
  • Rape
  • Abuse of trust
  • Internet chat offences
  • Sexual assault

The department has a strong track record of successfully defending clients in all types of criminal cases. This has led to the team being recognised by the Legal 500 for providing a ‘Rolls Royce service’ that includes ‘superb client care and thorough preparation’.

Successes we have overseen include avoiding charges, securing early acquittals and achieving not-guilty verdicts in court. If a conviction cannot be avoided, we will try to secure reduced penalties by ensuring the court considers all mitigating factors.

Our aim is to help you achieve the desired outcome while minimising the stress and anxiety that such challenging experiences can pose to you and your family.

For information on how to fund your criminal defence case, take a look at our dedicated page.

What is Child Abuse?

Child cruelty, in summary, is described as exposing a child to danger by committing an act, or by not taking an action that would care for or protect them.

Not all child abuse cases involve a child being physically or sexually harmed, but this does not mean the issue is any less serious. For instance, a child’s wellbeing may have been seriously degraded due to an individual failing to provide the required level of care.

The Children and Young Persons Act 1933 confirms that child cruelty can relate to:

  • Wilful assault
  • Ill-treatment
  • Neglect
  • Abandonment

Cases of child abuse are likely to involve investigations that include doctors, teachers, housing officials, social services and the police. For that reason, it is vital that you seek legal advice as soon as possible to ensure you are aware of your rights and the options available to you.

What are the Penalties for a Child Abuse Conviction?

Allegations of child abuse, child cruelty and child neglect are of grave significance, and punishments for being found guilty can be heavy. Penalties include imprisonment for up to 10 years, with a range of sentences including community orders and custody.

Being accused of child abuse or cruelty can be extremely damaging to your character - not to mention cause enormous upset for you and your family. Such cases often require the instruction of clinical, forensic and psychological expertise.

Talk to Us

If you have been accused of committing child abuse, child neglect or child cruelty and are seeking expert representation, contact JMW today. Call us on 0345 872 6666, or fill in our online enquiry form and we will get back to you.