Being accused of child abuse can be daunting. You may worry about whether you are able to get a fair trial – this should never be in question, but because of the society we live in, the court of public opinion comes into play, as well as the laws of the land.
An Alameda child abuse lawyer could advocate for your rights while your case proceeds. A domestic violence attorney could help you understand what to expect from child abuse charges in Alameda.
According to California Penal Code §273, child abuse means to willfully inflict injury on a minor. Examples include:
In addition, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a defendant willfully intended to harm a child in order for them to succeed at trial. An experienced attorney could weigh the facts of your child abuse case and defend your innocence in and out of court.
If the defendant is not in police custody, the first thing that usually happens is the alleged abuser is issued a criminal protective order (CPO) that prevents them from having contact with the child. As devastating as that is for a parent, it can be the best-case scenario for the circumstances. An Alameda attorney could detail what goes into a CPO for child abuse to help you understand what’s expected of you while you await arraignment [the reading of your charges and entry of your plea].
If the defendant is in custody, however, he or she may pay bail or request to be released on their own recognizance. In cases where your release request is denied and you cannot afford bail, you might remain in custody until your case is resolved, dismissed, or you’re found not guilty by a jury. The best outcome to hope for, however, is that the case is dismissed by the Prosecutor without a trial if they determine there is not enough evidence to go to trial.
The long-term consequences would depend on whether the defendant is charged with a misdemeanor or a felony child abuse offense. Being convicted of a misdemeanor, such as child endangerment in connection with a misdemeanor DUI, could result in one year spent in county jail, fines, and probation. On the other hand, the long-term consequences of a felony child abuse charge could include years in prison, felony probation, and restitution.
If the accusations include a sex crime against a child, a convicted individual would have to add their information to the Sex Offender Registry and could face life in prison. Regardless, a conviction for any kind of child abuse can be life-altering. Therefore, having an attorney who knows the local laws regarding the prosecution of child abuse charges could make all the difference in your case.
If you are trying to mitigate the impact of child abuse charges on your life, you can benefit from having an aggressive attorney on your side to fight for your rights. Get in touch with an Alameda child abuse lawyer today for an initial consultation.
The Nieves Law Firm is dedicated to providing aggressive criminal defense representation to working professionals who have found themselves in trouble with the law. We show up to win, and we’re not afraid to fight aggressively to accomplish our client’s goals.
We understand that being accused of a crime can be a scary and confusing experience. That’s why we take the stress off our clients by handling the full scope of their legal situation from the initial consultation to the final outcome. Our bilingual attorneys and staff are here to ensure that our clients feel heard and understood every step of the way.
As one of the largest criminal defense teams in Oakland and the Greater Bay Area, we have the resources and experience to handle even the most complex cases. Our experienced team examines various aspects of your case and, perhaps most importantly, we genuinely care about our clients and their future. We take the time to learn about their goals and priorities so that we can achieve an outcome that allows them to move past their mistakes and focus on the future they want. When you work with us, you become part of our team.
Our skilled criminal defense attorneys have experience handling a wide range of criminal cases. With a deep understanding of the legal system and a track record of successful cases, our lawyers are committed to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
When facing a criminal charge, having dedicated and experienced attorneys on your side is critical. At The Nieves Law Firm, we understand the gravity of your situation, and our criminal defense attorneys provide unwavering support and legal guidance.
From the moment you reach out to us, we prioritize your well-being and legal interests. Our criminal lawyers are with you every step of the way, from arrest to hearings and beyond, to ensure that your rights are protected. Whether you’re facing charges related to DUI, drug offenses, assault, sex crimes or any other allegation, we have the knowledge and courtroom experience to fight vigorously on your behalf.
We believe in the power of collaboration and will actively involve you in the decision-making process, ensuring you are well-informed and empowered to make the best choices for your defense. Our goal is not only to navigate the legal complexities but also to provide you with the peace of mind and reassurance you deserve during this challenging time.
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