Tampa Child Abuse Attorneys

Child abuse is the illegal act of intentionally physically, psychologically, or sexually abusing, neglecting, or threatening to harm a child.  Child abuse is a very serious criminal offense that will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. If you have been charged with abusing or neglecting a child in anyway, you must contact an experienced Tampa child abuse attorney immediately. The sooner you contact an attorney, the sooner you can work towards winning back your freedom.  

Child abuse can be committed by anyone. Often times parents, guardians, teachers, caregivers, babysitters, and even friends can be the culprit behind a child abuse incident. There are multiple types of child abuse an individual can be charged with:

Physical Abuse is the act of purposefully inflicting bodily harm, injury, or pain onto child. Common types of physical abuse include punching, hitting, kicking, beating, shaking, throwing, burning, or even stabbing a child. In rare circumstances, some children are the victims of Munchausen Syndrome. Munchausen Syndrome is a disease in which a parent, guardian, or caregiver seeks attention by actually making a child sick or appear to be sick. 

Mental/Psychological Abuse involves threatening, terrorizing, criticizing, isolating, or ignoring a child. Mental/psychological abuse lowers the child’s self esteem and self worth. Mental/psychological abuse is usually expressed in verbal attacks, belittlement, or blame. Because there is no physical evidence that mental/psychological abuse has occurred, it is one of hardest types of abuse to prove in court.

Sexual Abuse is considered any unlawful sexual act with a person under the age of 18 for purposes of gratifying an adult or older child. Most cases of sexual abuse involve the use of force, and require the child to engage in a sexual act against his or her will. Common forms of sexual abuse include incest, statutory rape, indecent exposure, exploitation, fondling, or sodomy.

Neglect is considered the failure to provide for a child’s most basic needs. Neglect can include failing to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, supervision, healthcare, or education. Another common form of neglect is emotional neglect. Like mental/psychological abuse, emotional neglect is the act of behaving in such a way that fails to address a child’s emotional and development needs.

Contact a Tampa Child Abuse Attorney

Being accused of child abuse can have life-altering consequences on your life. In addition to severe legal penalties, many people even just accused of child abuse face sudden job loss, a damaged reputation, social backlash, and limited professional and personal opportunities. If you have been charged with child abuse, it is vital that you hire an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney immediately. Prosecutors will find a way to exploit you from every possible angle. At Thomas & Paulk, we have extensive experience defending individuals who have been charged with child abuse in Tampa. We are well versed in Florida child abuse laws, and know the most effective ways to convince a jury of your innocence. We work relentlessly to protect your rights, and make sure you receive the legal justice you deserve.

If you are in need of a dedicated and professional Tampa child abuse attorney, contact the Thomas & Paulk today for your free consultation at (800) 239-3195!