Child Abuse and Child Endangerment-An Overview

In criminal law, child endangerment involves the act of putting a child in a dangerous or inappropriate situation. It's not the same as child abuse, but the punishment under the eyes of the law can be similar.

Many times parents break child endangerment laws and do not even realize it. For example, exposing your child to guns, domestic violence, pornography, driving after having a few drinks with your child in the car, etc. If you are pulled over speeding and your child is not in a car seat or seat belt you could also be charged with child endangerment.

Child abuse is the physical, verbal, psychological, or sexual mistreatment of a child. For example, physical abuse could be the failure to provide the child with adequate food or clothing, or hitting or shaking the child. Emotional and psychological abuse entails verbal abuse, lack of affection and nurturing, ignoring the child, or similar behaviors. While most child abuse is done in the childs own home, churches, schools, day care centers, etc. have also been found guilty of child abuse.

Child abuse and endangerment laws can vary from state to state, but are very serious charges. In some cases, a parent or guardian is charged with other crimes in addition to child abuse or endangerment. For example, if you are charged with drunk driving, but had your child in the car at the time of the arrest, you could also be charged with child endangerment.

If you are convicted of child abuse or child endangerment, you could face fines, loss of custody of your children, and jail time. If youve been charged with child abuse or child endangerment, you should seek the advice of a qualified attorney to represent you. If you suspect a child is being abused or being put in appropriate situations you should report it to the police and/or Social Services.

About The Author Child abuse and endagerment are very serious charges. Speak to child abuse lawyers or ciminal defense lawyers for information on the laws in your state. If you are on probation at the time of your arrest, probation violation lawyers can provide representation.